The United States Embassy in Kenya has announced a significant modification to its visa application process, introducing a mandatory DS-160 verification requirement effective December 2, 2024.
The new directive specifically addresses the critical need for alignment between applicants’ DS-160 application numbers and their appointment booking references. The DS-160, an essential online application form in the U.S. visa process, requires careful attention from applicants who must now ensure precise documentation. The Embassy has emphasized that applicants must present a physical copy of their completed form during their interview session.
Under the new protocol, the Embassy will enforce strict compliance, denying entry to applicants whose documentation fails to meet the specified requirements. To facilitate this process, applicants are required to undertake a thorough verification procedure. This involves examining their DS-160 confirmation page and cross-referencing the application number with their account details. In cases where discrepancies are identified, applicants must initiate a new DS-160 application through the Embassy’s official website.
The revised application number must be updated in their account no less than 48 hours before their scheduled appointment. The Embassy has issued a clear warning regarding non-compliance stating that applicants who fail to complete the verification or update process within the stipulated timeframe will face immediate rejection at the Embassy entrance and will need to reschedule their appointments after fulfilling all requirements. This measure has been implemented to enhance the efficiency of the visa application process and minimize potential complications.
This development coincides with recent changes in visa processing services across other diplomatic missions. Notably, the British High Commission has transitioned its visa printing services from TLScontact to VFS Global, affecting applicants across Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia. This transition is scheduled to occur between September 2024 and January 2025. For Kenyan nationals planning US travel, strict adherence to these new protocols is paramount to ensure a successful visa application process.
