USA Visa Guide

Complete guide for East Africans · Updated 2025

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Available visa types

B1/B2

Tourist / Business Visitor

For tourism, visiting family, short business trips, medical treatment. Usually issued together as B1/B2.

USD $185 (MRV fee, non-refundable)

3–5 weeks (Nairobi/Kigali); can take up to 3 months during peak periods

F-1

Student Visa

For full-time academic study at a US university or college. Requires a valid I-20 from your institution.

USD $185 (MRV fee) + USD $350 SEVIS fee

3–8 weeks after I-20 issuance

J-1

Exchange Visitor

For exchange programs, research scholars, au pairs, camp counselors. Requires DS-2019 form from your sponsor.

USD $185 (MRV fee) + USD $220 SEVIS fee

3–6 weeks

H-1B

Skilled Worker

For specialty occupation workers. Employer must sponsor and win H-1B lottery before you apply.

USD $190 (employer pays most fees; total can exceed $4,000)

3–6 months (standard); 15 business days (premium processing)

IR/CR

Immediate Relative / Family

For spouses, children, and parents of US citizens. IR-1 for spouses abroad; CR-1 for conditional residence.

USD $325 (immigrant visa application fee)

8–24 months depending on relationship and country

Notes by country

Kenya

Kenya has one of the highest US visa interview volumes in sub-Saharan Africa. Wait times for interview appointments in Nairobi can be 6–12 weeks during peak seasons (June–September). Apply early. Employment letters from well-known Kenyan employers (government, NGOs, banks) are viewed positively.

Rwanda

Rwanda applicants are processed at the US Embassy in Kigali (off KG 24 Ave, Gasabo). Wait times are generally shorter than Nairobi — often 2–4 weeks. Officers are familiar with Rwandan government structure; RDB, RRA, and major bank employment letters carry weight.

Uganda

Ugandan applicants use the US Embassy in Kampala (Plot 1577, Ggaba Road). Strong ties documentation is especially important for Ugandan applicants. Prior Schengen or UK travel greatly helps.

Tanzania

Tanzanian applicants use the US Embassy in Dar es Salaam (686 Old Bagamoyo Road, Msasani). Bank statements should be in both TZS and USD equivalent. NGO and government employment letters are valued.

Ethiopia

Ethiopian applicants use the US Embassy in Addis Ababa (Entoto Road). Ethiopia has a strong diaspora in the US, so officers may probe ties to home country more thoroughly. Clear documentation of what you are returning to is essential.

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