Kenyans Lose Thousands in Non-Refundable Fees as US Visa Rejections Hit 68pc

Nearly seven in ten Kenyans who applied for US tourist and business visas in the 2025 fiscal year had their applications rejected, forfeiting thousands of shillings in mandatory, non-refundable processing fees.

Data shows Kenya recorded a 68.23% refusal rate for B1 and B2 visas during that period. Because the US government does not refund application fees under any circumstances, the majority of applicants processed through the US Embassy in Nairobi lost their upfront payments.

For 2026, the baseline Machine Readable Visa (MRV) fee stands at USD 185, or roughly KSh 24,050 at an exchange rate of KSh 130 to the dollar. This charge applies uniformly to common nonimmigrant categories, including tourism and business (B1/B2), student (F1), exchange visitor (J1), and crewmember or transit (C1/D) visas.

The Nairobi embassy handles more than 100,000 visa applications annually, making it one of the busiest consular posts in Africa. Due to high demand and the steep rejection rate, applicants are advised to prepare thoroughly and book several weeks to three months ahead of their intended travel dates.

Specialized visa categories carry higher upfront costs. The H1B specialty worker visa costs USD 205 (about KSh 26,650), while the K1 fiancé(e) visa is priced at USD 265 (roughly KSh 34,450). Applicants seeking a CR1 or IR1 spouse visa must pay USD 325, or approximately KSh 42,250.

All US visa fees are officially set in US dollars. The Kenya shilling equivalents are approximate figures for budgeting purposes, based on the roughly KSh 130 exchange rate that the Central Bank of Kenya has maintained for more than two years.

Beyond current charges, Kenyan travelers face the prospect of a steep price hike if a new federal levy takes effect. In July 2025, the US signed into law a USD 250 (approximately KSh 32,500) Visa Integrity Fee, designed to apply to most nonimmigrant visas at the point of issuance.

If enforced alongside the standard MRV fee, the total cost of a standard visitor visa would climb to USD 435, or about KSh 56,200. However, guidance issued by the US State Department in September 2026 confirmed that collection has not started and no implementation date has been set.

While some consular posts have reportedly applied the integrity fee inconsistently, applicants are advised to factor the potential charge into their budgets without treating it as a confirmed expense.

To begin the application process in Kenya, travelers must pay the MRV fee through the official US visa appointment portal before reserving an interview slot. Payments can be made via M-Pesa or over the counter at designated bank branches, including Equity Bank.

Applicants must keep their payment receipt, as it is required to schedule an interview and must be presented throughout the application process.