Major Breakthrough: Streamlined Process for US Study Visa Applications Benefits Students
Wednesday, the US State Department announced policy changes affecting international students studying in the country. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced at the National Association of Foreign Student Advisors (NAFSA) in Washington. That the visa application process for international students, including those from Kenya, who wish to study abroad has been streamlined.
He stated that applicants will no longer be required to undergo an interview as part of the application process.
This is a significant departure from the standard procedure, which previously required an interview.
In addition, the Department has increased the time allotted to submit a visa application from 120 days to an entire year.
Blinken, commenting on the visa reforms emphasized the significance of establishing partnerships with other nations to expand study-abroad opportunities for American students.
He praised organizations like NAFSA for facilitating student exchanges and assisting students in seizing opportunities. “International education is a priority for the State Department. As the acute phase of the pandemic subsided, an increasing number of international students reapplied to study in the United States. We’ve taken measures to streamline our visa application process and make it easier for students to apply,” he said.
Raghwa Gopal, chief executive officer of M Square Media, applauded the U.S. government’s decision to expand international study programs.
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Gopal stated that the short-term courses would benefit students by equipping them with the skills necessary for future international engagement.
The academic Student Program provides a pathway for international students to gain admission to a certified U.S. college, university, high school, or other educational program.
The course of study must lead to a diploma, certificate, or degree. And the school must be officially recognized by the U.S. government to accept foreign students.
The most recent development comes just days after the date for the increase in global visa fees was pushed back to June 17. From the previously announced date of May 30 in response to public outcry. That some applicants will pay as much as Sh42,000 to obtain the travel document.
Business and tourist visas (categories B1/B2S). Student visas (F) and exchange visitor visas (J) will increase from Sh21,800 ($160) to Sh25,206 ($185). Whereas visas for temporary workers (categories H, L, 0, P, 0 and R) will increase from Sh25,897 ($190) to Sh27,941 ($205).
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The US Embassy in Nairobi acknowledged the importance of international travel to the US economy, noting that visas for work and tourism were central to President Joe Biden’s foreign policy, and insisted that the fees were only intended to cover the cost of providing consular services. This is the first increase in non-immigrant visa fees since 2014.
As a result of security measures implemented at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, the embassy has been dealing with a substantial backlog of visa interviews.
The embassy reduced the waiting period for visa interviews with visiting Kenyans. And allowed some categories to be renewed without an in-person appointment last month.
Major Breakthrough: Streamlined Process for US Study Visa Applications Benefits Students
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