Visas to the US

Requirements and Fees

Applicants must apply in person and bring:
A completed Electronic Visa Application Form (EVAF) DS-156.

This form can be accessed using the following United States Government website: https://evisaforms.state.gov

This form consists of three pages and all three pages must be printed out and submitted at the time application for visa is made.

Note: Men between 16-45 years of age must also submit Supplemental Nonimmigrant Visa Application Form DS-157.

A passport valid for a minimum of six months beyond the anticipated length of stay in the United States. The passport should be good to travel to all countries including the United States.

A recent (within the last six months) 2" x 2" passport type photo. Each applicant regardless of age requires a photograph. (see below for photo requirements)

Evidence substantiating the purpose of the trip.

Evidence of funds to cover expenses in the United States.

Evidence of social, familial, and economic ties to your country of residence.

Some examples of documents to submit would be:

• Letters from employer acknowledging travel intentions
  
• Pay stubs
  
• Length of Employment
  
• Documents describing family ties such as marriage and birth certificates
  
• Evidence of property ownership
  
• Bank statements
  
• Tax records
  
• Other documents reflecting income and savings

The Application fee for a non immigrant visa is currently US $131 or the equivalent in Kwachas.

Completing and Printing Electronic Visa

You may go to the Public Affairs IRC Library to complete your electronic Visa Application. The Public Affairs Library is located in Old Mutual House near the Center Arcade Building. The library hours: 9:00am to 4:00pm (Monday – Thursday), 9:00am to 12 noon (Friday).

Photo Requirements
Failure to provide the correct photo will result in cancellation of your appointment and possibly delay your travel plans.

• Photo size must be 2” x 2”. Photo must be original, taken within the past 6 months, and show current appearance. 
  
• Photo must be color. Background must be plain white.
  
• Photo must be in sharp focus, and correctly exposed (not too dark or too light).
  
• Photo must be taken from a straight frontal view, showing full face including both ears.
  
• Facial dimensions must be between 2.5 cm and 3.5 cm from the top of the head to the bottom of the chin.
  
• Photo cannot be digitally altered. Scanning old photos to insert a white background is not acceptable.
  
• Photo should show normal street attire: 
  Uniforms should not be worn except for religious attire that is worn daily.
  Hats/headgear obscuring the hair or hairline are not allowed. Headgear worn for religious purposes is acceptable provided that the face is uncovered.
  
• Dark or non-prescription glasses with tinted lenses are not acceptable. Prescription glasses, hearing devices, wigs or similar articles, should be shown if normally worn.
  

The Embassy is unable to recommend the services of a photographer. Many passport applicants have been able to obtain satisfactory photos at Lee Photo Studios in Old Town, which provides same day photo service.