EXPLAINED: Why It’s Difficult for Kenyans to Get US Visas and Why Application Fees Are Non-Refundable

The United States Embassy in Kenya has explained why many applicants, including Kenyans, face difficulties in obtaining US visas, citing strict legal requirements and concerns over visa compliance.

Speaking during a media interview on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, a US embassy official said visa decisions are guided strictly by American laws and regulations, stressing that a visa is not an automatic entitlement.

“A visa is a privilege and not a right. An applicant must demonstrate that they meet all the qualification criteria for the visa, and many people don’t, and therefore the visa has to be denied,” the official said.

US Official Explains Why It’s Difficult for Kenyans to Get US Visas

The official further noted that non-compliance with visa terms by previous travellers plays a significant role in current decision-making.

“There are many people who do not comply with the terms of their visas, and it is a priority of the administration to enforce US border security and visa compliance,” the official explained.

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According to data from the US Customs and Border Protection released in 2025, about 9 per cent of Kenyans holding tourist visas and approximately 13% of those with student visas in 2024 failed to comply with the terms of their stay.

“We use that information and apply it to the decisions we make today. The message is that everyone must comply with the terms of their visa because if they don’t, there may be repercussions,” the official added.

The embassy also warned that countries with high rates of non-compliance risk facing stricter measures, including visa suspensions or the introduction of visa bonds.

Why Visa Fees in Non Refundable

On the types of visas processed in Nairobi, the official said the embassy handles both non-immigrant and immigrant visas.

Non-immigrant visas include those for tourism, business travel, and study, while immigrant visas largely cater to family reunification. Work visas, however, require sponsorship by a US-based employer.

“An applicant cannot just walk in and apply for a work visa. The process must be initiated by an employer in the United States,” the official clarified.

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The embassy also addressed concerns over non-refundable visa fees, a common complaint among applicants whose requests are denied.

The official explained that the Machine Readable Visa (MRV) fee is an application processing fee, not a payment for the visa itself.

“That fee covers the cost of reviewing the application and conducting the interview. It is mandatory and non-refundable, regardless of the outcome,” the official said.

The clarification comes amid growing concerns among Kenyans over rising visa denials and the cost implications of unsuccessful applications.

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