Citizenship: USA
- For U.S. citizens only. If you are not a U.S. citizen, call (914) 592-2760.
- Your U.S. passport must be signed, valid for 6+ months, and have 2–3 blank visa pages (not "Amendment" pages).
- The fee for reformatting uploaded documents is $35.00..
Entry Requirements
- Passport must be valid at least 6 months beyond your stay.
- Visa issued upon arrival for visits under 30 days.
- U.S. citizens generally do not need to obtain a visa prior to entry for stays under one month. Business travelers should carry a company letter on letterhead.
- Required apps: DXB Smart App for Dubai travelers; AlHosn App for Abu Dhabi travelers.
- See the CDC travel page for COVID-related updates.
- Abu Dhabi: Negative PCR test with QR code taken within 48 hours before departure may be required upon arrival (verify current rules).
- Fully vaccinated travelers may need to complete the online vaccine attestation before departure: Submit here.
- Passports with “extended validity” stickers are not accepted for entry (except certain UAE residence-permit cases handled in-country).
- Travelers without return/onward tickets can be refused entry.
- For verification, you may contact the Embassy at 202-672-1050.
Photo Requirements
- Your head must face the camera directly with full face in view.
- Neutral facial expression or natural smile, with both eyes open.
- Taken in clothing normally worn on a daily basis.
- Taken in the last 6 months.
- Plain white or off-white background.
- 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm).
- Head between 1–1 3/8 inches (25–35 mm) from chin to top of head.
- Printed on matte or glossy photo quality paper, in color.
- No glasses.
- No hat or head covering (exceptions for documented religious or medical reasons).
- Full face visible; no shadows on face.
- No headphones or wireless hands-free devices.
Health Requirements
- Vaccinations are not required unless traveling from or through an infected area.
- Consult the CDC Travel Health site for complete guidance.
Register Your Trip (STEP)
Give yourself peace of mind.
JIDS can enroll your trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy/Consulate for $25.00 via the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program.
Accompanying Minors
- Application signed by both parents/guardians.
- Notarized consent letter signed by both parents/guardians.
- Original and copy of the minor's birth certificate.
Non-U.S. Citizens
- Include a copy of your U.S. Green Card (permanent residents) or your U.S. visa (visa holders).
- Visa requirements vary by nationality. Call JIDS at (914) 592-2760 for assistance.
Additional Information
Travel Prep (as of January 2022)
- Complete any required health forms before departure.
- Contact your host in the UAE to verify documents you may need for a visa on arrival.
- Requirements may differ for vaccinated vs. unvaccinated travelers—check with the Embassy/Consulate directly.
- Attest vaccination certificates online before departure (if applicable): ICP Attestation Form. Fully vaccinated travelers may be asked to present a vaccination certificate with a QR code upon arrival.
Return Shipping & JIDS Fees
Return Shipping
- FedEx charge according to ZIP code.
- Saturday/8AM delivery available.
- Include a printed airbill to avoid extra charges. (No UPS accounts can be processed through us.)
Service Fees
- See JIDS pricing or call (914) 592-2760.
- If JIDS pays government fees on your behalf, a 5.9% processing fee applies.
