Visa Guide: How to Move from Kenya to the U.S.

Moving to the United States from Kenya can open up exciting opportunities for you and your family. However, the immigration process can feel complex without the right support. Law and Visas is here to simplify the journey, providing expert assistance tailored to Kenyan applicants.

Whether you’re applying for a family visa, reuniting with loved ones, or starting a new chapter in your career, this guide will help you navigate the available visa options, understand key requirements, and access the resources you need.

Your Visa Options: Finding the Right Path

Choosing the right visa is the foundation of a successful move to the U.S. Here are the most common visa options for Kenyan citizens and their families:

Marriage-Based Green Card

If you are married to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident or plan to marry soon you may qualify for a marriage-based green card, which allows you to live and work permanently in the United States.

Steps to Apply:

The U.S. spouse files Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) to establish the relationship.
Once approved, the Kenyan spouse applies for a green card through consular processing (if outside the U.S.) or adjustment of status (if already in the U.S.).
Attend a green card interview and medical exam as part of the process.

Key Considerations for Kenyan Applicants:

Processing times depend on whether the U.S. spouse is a citizen or a green card holder.
You’ll need to provide marriage documentation, proof of relationship, and complete the required forms.

Law and Visas ensures your application is accurate and complete, minimizing delays or complications.

K-1 Fiancé Visa

If you’re engaged to a U.S. citizen and plan to marry in the U.S., the K-1 fiancé visa allows you to enter the country to get married within 90 days, after which you can apply for a green card.

Steps to Apply:

Your U.S. fiancé files Form I-129F (Petition for Alien Fiancé) with USCIS.
After approval, you apply for a K-1 visa at the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi.
Once in the U.S., you must get married within 90 days and begin the green card application process.

Important Tips for Kenyan Applicants:

Gather evidence of your relationship, such as photos, call logs, and travel records, to support your application.
Prepare for an interview at the U.S. Embassy.

Law and Visas provides personalized guidance to make this process smooth and stress-free.

Immigrating with Children

If you’re moving to the U.S. with your children, there are specific visa options depending on your situation:

K-2 Visa for Children of K-1 Applicants:
Children under 21 and unmarried can be included on your K-1 visa application to immigrate with you.
IR-2 Visa for U.S. Citizen Children:
If you’re a U.S. citizen with a child living in Kenya, the IR-2 visa lets them join you in the U.S. as permanent residents.

Law and Visas helps you include your children on your visa application at no additional cost, ensuring their immigration is hassle-free.

U.S. Embassy in Kenya: Key Information

All immigrant visa applications from Kenya are processed at the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi. Here’s what you need to know:

Address:
P.O. Box 606, Village Market, 00621 Nairobi, Kenya
Phone:
+254 20 363-6000
Email:
ImmigrationVisaNairobi@state.gov
For Inquiries:
Call +254-20-7640121 or +254-20-7640799 to speak with the Visa Call Center.

Medical Exam Requirements

All Kenyan applicants must complete a medical exam as part of the immigrant visa process. The exam must be conducted by a U.S. Embassy-approved physician.

Medical Exam Locations:

International Organization for Migration (IOM)
- Address:
  Migration Health Assessment Center (MHAC)
  78 United Nations Crescent, Off UN Avenue, Gigiri, Nairobi, Kenya
- Phone: +254 734-860686 / +254 731-974031
- Email:
  - mrfnbommsc@iom.int
  - iomnbomedical@iom.int

Steps to Schedule Your Exam:

Contact the above locations directly via phone or email to book your appointment.
Bring your passport, vaccination records, and visa interview appointment letter to the exam.

Other Important Considerations

Visa Costs and Processing Times for Kenyan Applicants

Costs: Fees include filing forms, medical exams, and consular processing fees.
Processing Times: These vary depending on the type of visa and your specific case.

Law and Visas provides a detailed cost and timeline breakdown for your situation, helping you plan ahead.

Why Choose Law and Visas?

Immigration to the U.S. can be complicated, but with Law and Visas, you’ll have a trusted partner every step of the way.

What We Offer:

Experienced immigration assistance tailored to Kenyan applicants.
Transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
Support for green cards, K-1 fiancé visas, and family reunification processes.

Why Thousands Trust Us:

Over 70,000 families successfully assisted in the last decade.
Customized solutions for your unique needs.

Ready to Begin Your U.S. Immigration Journey?

Whether you’re planning to marry, reunite with family, or start a new life in the United States, Law and Visas makes the process simple and achievable.