Kenyans Claim How Luck and the Visa Officer's Mood Impact Approvals at Nairobi US Embassy
What factors determine the outcome of a visa application at the US Embassy in Nairobi? Are the visa officers reviewing the applicant's documents before the interview date? Is their decision predetermined?
Many applicants have been grappling with these inquiries. A significant number have experienced a sense of being refused US visas without adequate clarification, despite fulfilling all the necessary criteria, including having strong ties to their home country, steady employment with satisfactory income, and thriving enterprises. Therefore, what exactly shapes the visa officer's decision? We have compiled some perspectives from Kenyans who have experienced the US visa application procedure, shared within the widely followed travel community Wanderlust Diaries, curated by Dr. Amakove Wala.
One Kenyan had shared his experience. "I have just been denied a US visa, the interviewer didn't give me even 2 minutes. Just two questions and I was denied. She didn't look even at my documents despite the fact I offered to show her my bank statement. All my documents were in order, I had a genuine invitation letter and a proper employment letter, my bank balance was good and in all honesty, I had no intention of overstaying in the US. I am just devastated.”
In response, Kenyans have shared their views. Wangui expresses frustration at the predetermined verdicts, recounting how she was denied a visa without being asked any questions. Despite having all the necessary documents, including an invitation letter and bank statements, she was still rejected. She recalls her vow to never reapply and her distaste for the area where the consulate is located.
Martha suggests that if visas are denied, the application fees should be refunded as this is a profitable business for the consulate. Kenia Esther, who helps with visa applications, has also offered her perspective, stating that the outcome often depends on the mood of the consular officers.
According to Kenia, luck and travel history are the main factors that help. She disputes the notion that decisions are predetermined, stating that visa officers at the embassy often have limited time to review the documents.
“It’s actually about moods. And in that embassy they exercise it a lot, because they know there’s nothing we can do about it. Kwanza women with PMS, don’t we do the same to clients some days? Hiyo visa ni luck na travel history husaidia mostly,” she says.