US increases visa fees by up to 53 percent

The US State Department increased visa fees for some categories by between seven percent and 53 percent, citing the high cost of processing a travel document.

Fee changes will go into effect on May 30. The last time fees were increased for nonimmigrant visas was in 2014.

Work, tourist (categories B1/B2s), student (F) and exchange visitor (J) visas will increase from Sh21,800 ($160) to Sh25,206 ($185), while temporary worker (H, L, O) visas will cost more. P, Q and R) 27,941 shillings ($205) from 25,897 shillings ($190).

Fees for trader, investor and applicants in a specialized profession (Class E) will increase from Sh27,941 ($205) to Sh42,934 ($315) in changes.

“The slight increases in the costs of some fees reflect the higher cost of inputs associated with services provided by Consular Sections around the world,” a statement from the US Embassy in Nairobi said.

The new fares will not affect passengers who have already placed their orders at the old fares.

Last month, the US Embassy reduced the waiting period for visa interviews for Kenyans wishing to visit and allowed some categories to be renewed without going to actual appointments.

The Embassy is grappling with a backlog of non-immigrant visa interviews at its Nairobi office after the process was halted in 2020 as part of safety measures in the wake of the Covid-19 outbreak.

Last year, the US Embassy in Nairobi retooled interview requirements for a number of visa categories as a measure to address the Covid-related backlog for non-immigrant applicants.

The Embassy has expanded the Nonimmigrant Visa Interview Waiver Program for those who apply for tourist/business (B1/B2), student (F, J, M), or crew (C1/D) visas eligible for visa-free renewal. Personal appointment.

To qualify for this program, one must apply for the same category of visa, and the current permit must not have expired more than a year ago.

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