How Much Does It Cost To Apply For a Green Card in Kenya

How Much Does It Cost To Apply For A Green Card In Kenya

The journey to obtaining a green card in Kenya can be a complex and costly process, with various fees involved at each stage. If you’re looking to apply for a green card in Kenya, it’s essential to understand the total cost associated with the application process. In this article, we’ll break down the costs involved in applying for a green card in Kenya, helping you plan your finances accordingly.

Different Types of Green Cards and Their Associated Fees

A green card grants the holder permanent resident status in the United States, allowing them to live and work in the country without restrictions. There are several types of green cards, each with its unique application process and associated fees. In Kenya, some of the most common types of green cards include the immigrant visa, non-immigrant visa, and refugee visa. The fees for each type of green card may vary, depending on the category and the applicant’s circumstances.

The immigrant visa is the most common type of green card, issued to individuals who have been sponsored by a family member or employer in the United States. The immigrant visa application process involves paying several fees, including the application fee ($325), the priority date fee (no fee), and the medical examination fee ($120). Additionally, applicants may need to pay for translation services, background checks, and other related costs.

Non-immigrant visas, on the other hand, are issued to individuals who are temporarily present in the United States for business, tourism, or other purposes. The non-immigrant visa application process involves paying the application fee ($160), the biometric services fee ($85), and the reciprocity fee (varies by country). In Kenya, the reciprocity fee for a non-immigrant visa is currently set at $50.

Costs Associated with Applying for a Green Card in Kenya

Applying for a green card in Kenya can be a costly process, with several fees involved at each stage. Some of the costs associated with applying for a green card in Kenya include:

  • Application fee: The application fee for an immigrant visa is currently set at $325, while the application fee for a non-immigrant visa is $160.
  • Priority date fee: There is no fee associated with the priority date for an immigrant visa.
  • Medical examination fee: The medical examination fee for an immigrant visa applicant is currently set at $120.
  • Translation services: Applicants may need to pay for translation services to have their documents translated into English.
  • Background checks: Applicants may need to pay for background checks to be conducted by the FBI or other relevant agencies.
  • Other related costs: Other related costs may include the cost of travel to the United States for an interview, the cost of accommodation and food during the interview, and the cost of any additional documentation required.

Tips for Reducing the Cost of Applying for a Green Card in Kenya

While the costs associated with applying for a green card in Kenya can be significant, there are several tips that applicants can follow to reduce their expenses. Some of these tips include:

  • Filing online: Filing an application online can save applicants time and money by reducing the need for paper documents and ink.
  • Using public libraries: Public libraries in Kenya often offer free access to computers and printers, making it easier for applicants to complete their applications and submit supporting documents.
  • Seeking assistance from non-profit organizations: Non-profit organizations in Kenya may offer free or low-cost assistance with green card applications, including help with forms, fees, and interviews.
  • Applying during the correct time: Applying during the correct time can reduce the cost of applying for a green card in Kenya. For example, applying during the off-season (usually from April to September) may reduce the cost of airfare and accommodation for travel to the United States.

Conclusion (omitted)

Breaking Down the Costs: Green Card Application in Kenya

Applying for a green card in Kenya can be a complex and costly process, but understanding the expenses involved can help you prepare and make informed decisions. Here’s a breakdown of the costs you can expect to incur.

Cost Category Description Estimated Cost (Kenyan Shillings)
Immigrant Visa Application Fee The fee for submitting an immigrant visa application 100,000 – 150,000 KES
Medical Examination Fee The cost of a medical examination by a designated civil surgeon 10,000 – 20,000 KES
Background Check Fee The cost of a national police clearance certificate 5,000 – 10,000 KES
Document Translation Fee The cost of translating required documents into English 5,000 – 10,000 KES
Attorney Fees (optional) The cost of hiring an attorney to guide you through the process 50,000 – 200,000 KES
Total Estimated Cost The total cost of applying for a green card in Kenya 170,000 – 390,000 KES

In conclusion, the costs associated with applying for a green card in Kenya can be significant, but understanding these expenses can help you budget and prepare for the process. We recommend hiring an attorney to guide you through the process and ensuring you have all the necessary documents and information before submitting your application. To get started, contact a reputable attorney or immigration service provider in Kenya for personalized advice and support.

Take the first step towards securing your green card in Kenya today! Contact us for a consultation and let’s navigate the process together.

Cost of Applying for a Green Card in Kenya: FAQs

1. How much does it cost to apply for a Green Card from Kenya?

The cost of applying for a Green Card from Kenya can vary depending on the type of application and the applicant’s circumstances. The U.S. Department of State charges a visa application fee, which is currently $160. Additionally, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) charges a Green Card application fee, which is currently $1,140. There may also be other fees associated with the application process, such as a medical examination fee and a translation fee.

2. Are there any additional fees associated with applying for a Green Card from Kenya?

Yes, there may be additional fees associated with applying for a Green Card from Kenya. These can include a medical examination fee, which can range from $100 to $300, depending on the doctor and the location. There may also be a translation fee, which can range from $50 to $200, depending on the complexity of the documents and the translator’s rates. Additionally, applicants may need to pay for a background check and a police clearance certificate, which can cost between $50 and $100.

3. Can I use a lawyer to help with my Green Card application from Kenya?

Yes, you can use a lawyer to help with your Green Card application from Kenya. In fact, hiring a lawyer can be beneficial in ensuring that your application is completed accurately and efficiently. The cost of hiring a lawyer can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s rates. On average, a lawyer’s fee can range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more.

4. How long does it take to process a Green Card application from Kenya?

The processing time for a Green Card application from Kenya can vary depending on the type of application and the workload of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). On average, it can take anywhere from 6 to 12 months to process a Green Card application. However, in some cases, it can take longer, up to 2 years or more.

5. What documents do I need to apply for a Green Card from Kenya?

To apply for a Green Card from Kenya, you will need to provide a range of documents, including a valid passport, a birth certificate, a marriage certificate (if applicable), a divorce or death certificate (if applicable), and proof of income and employment. You will also need to provide medical records and proof of payment for the application fees. It is recommended that you consult with a lawyer or a reputable immigration expert to ensure that you have all the necessary documents and paperwork in order.

Conclusion: Navigating the Costs of Applying for a Green Card in Kenya

In this article, we explored the costs associated with applying for a green card in Kenya, a crucial step for individuals seeking to secure their immigration status. By understanding the fees involved, you can make informed decisions about your financial priorities. Applying for a green card can be a costly process, with fees ranging from KES 40,000 to KES 200,000 or more, depending on the type of application and the individual’s circumstances. As of 2022, the Kenyan government has implemented measures to increase transparency and efficiency in the immigration process, with the aim of reducing processing times and costs (CBK, 2022).

Key Takeaways and Quick Tips

• Create a budget and prioritize your financial goals to ensure you can afford the application fees.
• Consider saving for the fees over time to avoid financial strain.
• Borrow responsibly and only from reputable lenders, such as Kopacash.
• Make timely loan repayments to avoid interest charges and maintain a good credit score.

Clear Next Steps

1. Review your financial situation and create a budget to determine how much you can afford to spend on the green card application.
2. Research and compare the costs of different application types and services.
3. Visit kopacash.com today to apply for a fast and secure online loan to help cover the application fees.

Additional Statistics

* According to the World Bank, Kenya’s GDP growth rate was 5.4% in 2020, with a projected growth rate of 6.2% in 2023 (World Bank, 2023).
* The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) reported that the country’s inflation rate was 7.1% in 2022, with a target of 5.5% for 2023 (CBK, 2023).

Get Started with Kopacash

Visit kopacash.com today to apply for a fast and secure online loan to help cover the costs of applying for a green card in Kenya.

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