Kenyans seeking to travel to the United States but facing long wait times for visa interviews can request an earlier appointment, including expedited (emergency) interviews under specific circumstances, according to updated guidance from the US visa services.
All visa interviews are managed through the Visa Appointment Service website, where applicants must create an account, complete registration, and pay the non-refundable Machine-Readable Visa (MRV) fee.
Once registered, applicants can view available appointment slots in real time. However, appointment availability is limited and cannot be guaranteed for any specific date.
Here is a detailed Process;
How to Request an Earlier Appointment
Applicants may request an earlier slot by selecting the ‘Request Expedite’ option in their visa appointment account.
Detailed instructions, including the criteria for expedited appointments, are available under the ‘Visa Appointment Questions’ section of the FAQ page on the Visa Appointment Service website.
If no suitable dates are available, applicants can request an expedited appointment using these steps:
- Schedule a regular appointment on the earliest available date.
- Log into your account on the Visa Appointment Service website.
- Click “Continue”, then select “Request Expedite.”
- Provide supporting documentation on why you want an early appointment.
In cases where a previously scheduled appointment is unexpectedly cancelled or changed, applicants may either attend the rescheduled interview or request an expedited slot, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.
It’s important to note that if an expedited request is denied, the decision is final and cannot be appealed.
Applicants are encouraged to regularly check the calendar for newly available or cancelled appointments.
Also Read: Why Kenya Visa Applications Get Rejected
Who Qualifies for an Expedited (Emergency) US Visa Appointment?
Expedited appointments are granted only for urgent and qualifying reasons. Applicants must provide supporting documentation and a strong justification.
According to the United States government, the following situations may qualify:
1. Medical and Family Emergencies
- Death of an immediate family member (parent, child, or sibling) in the US.
- Urgent medical treatment in the US for the applicant.
- Medical escort for someone receiving treatment in the US.
2. Students
Students who risk losing a scholarship or missing the start of classes if not granted a visa in time.
3. Aviation and Essential Business Travel
- Pilots and airline personnel traveling for training or aircraft-related duties.
- Specialized technicians or engineers required for critical equipment installation or servicing.
- Senior executives or critical staff involved in operations for companies with US investments.
- Support for major entertainment productions that depend on the applicant’s presence.
Also Read: UK Diplomat Addresses Kenyans’ Concerns Over Visa Application
4. Critical Infrastructure
Executives and professionals supporting sectors designated as Critical Infrastructure by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security may qualify. These include:
- Energy, healthcare, food and agriculture, financial services, defense, transportation, water systems, and others.
Applicants must clearly state their job title and explain the specific role and sector involved.
5. Legal Obligation
- A required in-person appearance in a U.S. court, with written confirmation from the court.
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