2008 Press Releases

Adjustment of Exchange Rate Will Affect Kenya Non-Immigrant Visa Fees as of February 1, 2008

January 30, 2008

On February 1, 2008, the fee to apply for any non-immigrant visas will increase from 9,000 KSH to 10,000 KSH.  There has been no additional increase to the worldwide non-immigrant visa fee of $131 USD which was made effective on January 1, 2008.  However, the increase in the price in Kenyan Shillings reflects recent shifts in the exchange rate between the U.S. Dollar and the Kenyan Shilling. 

Application fees of 9,000 KSH paid prior to February 1, 2008 will be accepted until February 29, 2008.  After February 29, all applicants will be required to have paid 10,000 KSH at the time of processing, regardless of the date of original application.

Non-immigrant visas are for temporary visitors to enter the United States for tourist, business, and study purposes.  Procedures for payment of visa fees in Kenya will not change: all applicants for non-immigrant visas to visit the United States, regardless of nationality, should pay the fee for each individual visa application at the Commercial Bank of Africa. 

The Department of State is required by U.S. federal legislation to offset costs through fees charged for visa services.  The last worldwide fee increase for non-immigrant visas occurred on January 1, 2008, raising the cost from $100 USD to $131 USD.  In its management of all consular services and operations, it is normal practice for the Department of State to adjust visa fees paid in foreign currency when there are significant changes to the corresponding exchange rates.