HOW TO APPLY FOR AN AMERICAN VISA IN KENYA

By
Judy Moraa
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0
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Applying for a U.S. visa in Kenya may seem intimidating at first, but with the right guidance, it becomes a straightforward process. Whether you’re traveling for tourism, study, business, or to visit family, this comprehensive guide will walk you through each step of the application process for a non-immigrant visa to the United States.

The first and most important step is determining which type of visa you require. U.S. visas are categorized based on the purpose of your visit. If you’re traveling for a short-term visit, such as tourism or business, you’ll likely need a B1/B2 visa.

Students should apply for the F1 visa, while those participating in exchange programs should consider the J1 visa.

If you’re going to work temporarily in the U.S., you may require an H1B visa, and if you’re engaged to a U.S. citizen, the K1 fiancé visa is appropriate.

Each visa category has specific requirements and documentation, so it’s important to review them carefully on the U.S. Department of State website.

After you have identified the visa that you want, you will be required to fill in the DS-160 online application form. The DS-160 form is the official online application for a non-immigrant U.S. visa. This form must be completed and submitted before scheduling your interview.

To get started, visit the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) and select “Nairobi, Kenya” as your application location. The form will ask for detailed information about your personal background, travel plans, education, employment, and security history. You will also be required to upload a recent passport-style photograph that meets U.S. visa photo standards.

After completing the form, submit it electronically and print the confirmation page with the barcode. This confirmation is required for your visa appointment and must be presented during the interview.

Once the DS-160 form is complete, you’ll need to pay the visa application fee, which is currently $185 (equivalent to around KES 25,000, depending on exchange rates). Payment can be made in Kenyan shillings using one of the following methods:

  • MPESA: Use Paybill number 100202. Enter your unique receipt number in the reference section.

  • Bank Deposit: Visit any branch of Access Bank (formerly GTBank) to pay in person.

Be sure to retain your payment receipt number, as you’ll need it to book your appointment on the U.S. visa scheduling system.

After paying the visa fee, create a profile on the U.S. Visa Information and Appointment Services website. Using your DS-160 confirmation number and fee receipt number, you’ll be able to schedule two separate appointments:

  1. Biometric Appointment (VAC) – This is where your fingerprints and photo will be taken.

  2. Visa Interview at the U.S. Embassy – This is the actual visa interview with a consular officer.

Appointment availability can vary, sometimes with long waiting periods. Book as early as possible to secure your preferred date and time.

Your first appointment will be at the Visa Application Center (VAC) in Nairobi. During this visit, your fingerprints and a digital photograph will be taken. You’ll need to bring the following documents; Your valid passport, the DS-160 confirmation page and visa appointment confirmation email or printout. This step is usually quick and does not involve an interview or document review.

Your main visa interview will take place at the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi, located on United Nations Avenue, Gigiri. Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled time and bring all the necessary documents, which typically include:

  • Your original passport (valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay)

  • The DS-160 confirmation page

  • Appointment confirmation

  • Payment receipt

  • Supporting documents depending on your visa type, such as:

    • Bank statements

    • School admission letters (for students)

    • Invitation letters (for family or business visits)

    • Evidence of employment or property in Kenya

    • Any other documents proving your intention to return

During the interview, a consular officer will ask you questions about your travel plans, background, and ties to Kenya. This is your opportunity to demonstrate that you’re visiting the U.S. for a legitimate reason and that you intend to return home after your trip.

If your visa is approved, the embassy will keep your passport for stamping. You’ll receive a notification (via SMS or email) when it is ready for pickup. The passport can usually be collected within 3–7 working days from the location you selected during the appointment scheduling.

If your visa is denied, the consular officer will explain the reason, usually under Section 214(b) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, which often relates to insufficient ties to your home country.

Important Tips for a successful visa application

  • Be honest and consistent – Ensure all your forms, answers, and documents match.

  • Show strong ties to Kenya – This could include your job, school, family, or property ownership.

  • Practice for the interview – Be clear, concise, and confident in your responses.

  • Dress appropriately – First impressions matter, so present yourself professionally.

  • Only bring necessary documents – Too many papers can be overwhelming; focus on what supports your case.

Why visas get denied

  • Weak or unclear purpose of travel

  • Insufficient proof of financial ability to cover the trip

  • Inconsistent information across documents

  • Lack of evidence showing you will return to Kenya

  • Previous visa violations or overstays in the U.S.

If denied, you may reapply, but only after addressing the issue that led to the denial.

Though the U.S. visa application process is thorough, it’s not impossible. Thousands of Kenyans successfully receive U.S. visas every year. The key is preparation, honesty, and clarity. Whether you’re going for a conference, graduation, medical care, or a family visit, understanding the process increases your chances of success.

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