USA Visa
U.S. Visa Application Information And Requirements In Kenya
Kenyan travelers planning a U.S. visit can complete the DS-160 form, schedule their embassy interview in Nairobi, and submit documentation with guidance from Greentod Visa Solutions. Learn how to prepare, pay, and collect your visa in this streamlined guide.
U.S. Visa Application Process
Kenyan citizens and residents planning to travel to the United States must follow these steps:
1. Complete the DS-160 Form Online.
Fill out the application form accurately and truthfully. Proper form filling is essential to avoid rejection. Not sure how to fill the form? Don’t worry Greentod can help you fill the DS-160 form
2. Pay the Visa Fee.
The amount depends on the visa category (tourist, student, work, or business).
3. Schedule a Visa Interview .
Book an appointment through the official U.S. visa application portal.
4. Prepare Supporting Documents .
Gather all required documents, including your valid passport, DS-160 confirmation page, visa fee receipt, and supporting evidence for your travel purpose.
5. Attend the Interview at the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi .
Before your interview, biometric data (fingerprints and a photo) will be collected. During the interview, you will present your supporting documents, and the consular officer will determine your eligibility. Ace your interview with our coaching service
6. Receive Your Visa.
Passport with the visa stamp will be returned via courier delivery or can be collected at the designated BLS Visa Application Centre.
What Are The Requirements For U.S. Visa Application
- Current passport . Must be valid for at least six months beyond the period of stay in the United States.
- One 5*5 (2 by 2 5nches). Must be colored and not older than 6 months.
- Passport containing the most recently issued U.S. visa (if applicable)
- Form DS-160 confirmation page
- Confirmation and instruction page (Appointment confirmation)
- Supporting documents based on visa type
Tourist / Visitor Visa (B1/B2):
Applicants should demonstrate strong ties to Kenya, such as employment confirmation, proof of business ownership, or evidence of family responsibilities. A clear travel plan, including intended destinations and duration of stay, must be provided. Recent bank statements are also required to show the ability to finance the trip.
Request for a personalised requirement list
Student Visa (F1/M1):
Applicants must submit the Form I-20 issued by their U.S. school or university and provide proof of SEVIS fee payment. Academic transcripts and certificates from previous studies are necessary. In addition, applicants should show evidence of sufficient financial support, either through personal bank statements or sponsorship documents, to cover tuition and living expenses in the U.S.
Work Visa:
Applicants need to provide an approved petition (Form I-129) from a U.S. employer along with a valid employment contract or official job offer. Supporting documents such as professional qualifications, academic credentials, and work experience records may also be required to confirm eligibility.
Business Visa:
Applicants are required to present an invitation letter from a U.S.-based company or business associate. They should also provide evidence of business dealings, such as contracts, trade documentation, or details of planned meetings. Proof of adequate financial resources to cover travel and accommodation costs is also recommended.
U.S. Visa Categories
There are two main categories of U.S. visas.
- Nonimmigrant visas (For travel on temporary basis)
- Immigrant visas (For travel on permanent basis)
Nonimmigrant (Temporary) Visa:
- B1/B2 Visitor Visa
For tourism, family visits, medical treatment, or short business trips. F-1 Student Visa
For full-time academic studies at U.S. schools, colleges, or universities.J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa
For cultural exchange, internships, training, or research programs.H-1B Work Visa
For professionals in specialized fields such as IT, engineering, and healthcare.L-1 Intra-Company Transfer Visa
For employees transferring within multinational companies to U.S. offices.O-1 Visa
For individuals with extraordinary ability in arts, sciences, business, sports, or entertainment.K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa
For foreign nationals engaged to U.S. citizens, allowing marriage within 90 days of arrival.
Immigrant (Permanent Residence / Green Card) Visas
- Family-Based Green Cards
For spouses, children, parents, and siblings of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents. -
Employment-Based Green Cards (EB-1, EB-2, EB-3)
For professionals, skilled workers, and individuals with exceptional qualifications or experience. -
Diversity Visa (DV Lottery)
For nationals of countries with historically low immigration rates to the United States. -
EB-5 Investor Visa
For foreign investors who invest in U.S. businesses and create jobs for American workers.
Disclaimer
Greentod Visas & Travel Solutions is a Kenyan-based visas and Immigration consultancy dedicated to supporting clients through every step of their visa application & Immigration journey. While we work independently and are not affiliated with any embassy, our role is to provide guidance, document support, and application assistance. Visa issuance is solely at the discretion of the relevant embassy or immigration authority, and we do not guarantee approval or denial of any application.