US Visa for Omanis 2025-2026: The B1/B2 Guide

Travelling to the United States works differently to Europe. There is no online visa and no visa on arrival. Omani citizens apply for a visitor visa, attend an interview at the US Embassy in Muscat, and receive the visa in their passport if approved. This guide walks through the visa type, the fee, the DS-160 form, the interview, and how to prepare so your application goes smoothly.

Do Omani citizens need a US visa?

Yes. Oman is not part of the US Visa Waiver Program, so an Omani citizen needs a visa to visit the United States. For tourism, business, or visiting family, the right visa is the B1/B2 visitor visa. It is a nonimmigrant visa, which means it is for temporary visits, not for living or working in the US.

B1 or B2: which one

The visitor visa comes in two linked types, and most people receive them combined as a B1/B2. The B1 is for business, such as meetings, conferences, and negotiations. The B2 is for tourism, holidays, medical treatment, and visiting family and friends. If your trip mixes both, the combined B1/B2 covers you. It does not allow paid work in the US, which needs a different visa.

How to apply, step by step

The process is the same for most applicants in Oman. First, complete the DS-160 online application form and save the confirmation page with its barcode. Next, pay the visa application fee. Then create an account on the official US visa service for Oman and book your interview appointment at the US Embassy in Muscat. Finally, attend the interview in person, bringing your documents. One important detail: since early 2025 the embassy checks that the barcode on your DS-160 confirmation matches the one used to book the appointment, so use the same DS-160 throughout and do not start a new form after booking.

How much it costs

The application fee for a B1/B2 visitor visa is about 185 US dollars, paid in Omani Rial at the current rate. This fee is not refundable, even if the visa is refused, so it is worth preparing well before the interview. Confirm the current fee on the official US visa service for Oman before you pay, as fees can change.

What to bring to the interview

Bring your passport, valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay, along with any older passports. Bring your DS-160 confirmation page, your appointment confirmation, and a recent passport photo that meets US standards. It also helps to carry evidence that supports your trip and your ties to Oman: proof of employment or business, bank statements, property documents, and family ties. These are not always requested, but they help the officer see that you intend to return.

The interview and processing

The interview itself is usually short. The consular officer asks about the purpose of your trip, your plans, and your ties to Oman. Answer honestly and clearly. If approved, your passport is returned with the visa, and processing is often around three working days, though some cases take longer. Appointment wait times vary through the year, so book early, especially before the summer and holiday seasons.

Tips for a strong application

Use one DS-160 from start to finish, so the barcode matches at the interview. Keep your answers consistent with what you wrote on the form. Show clear ties to Oman, such as a stable job, a business, property, or close family, since this is the single most important factor for a visitor visa. Be honest about any past travel or refusals. Dress neatly, arrive early, and keep your documents organised so you can find them quickly.

Frequently asked questions

Can I get a US visa online or on arrival? No. Omani citizens must apply in advance and attend an interview at the US Embassy in Muscat.

How much is the fee? About 185 US dollars for a B1/B2 visa, paid in Omani Rial, and it is not refundable.

What is the DS-160? It is the online application form. Keep the confirmation page, because its barcode must match your appointment.

How long does it take? After approval, processing is often about three working days, but it can be longer, and interview wait times vary.

Can I work in the US on this visa? No. The B1/B2 is for visits only. Paid work needs a different visa.

How City Squares can help

The US interview makes preparation matter more than for most visas. City Squares helps clients in Oman complete the DS-160 correctly, pay the fee, book the interview, and prepare the documents and answers, so you walk in ready. If you are also planning European travel, see our guides to the France Schengen visa and the Greece Schengen visa for Omanis.

To prepare your US visa application with confidence, contact City Squares on WhatsApp. You can also check the US Embassy Oman visa page and the official US visa service for Oman for the latest fees and appointments.