NAIROBI, Kenya – Kenyans seeking to apply for the U.S. Diversity Visa Program, popularly known as the Green Card lottery, will now be required to pay a Sh130 ($1) application fee following new rules that took effect in October 2025.
According to the U.S. State Department, the fee is designed to cover administrative costs and enhance the integrity of the application process. Previously, applications were free, with applicants only paying if they advanced in the selection stages.
The change affects thousands of Kenyans in the diaspora and at home who apply annually, with Kenya consistently ranking among the top African countries in Green Card entries.
Data shows that more than 300,000 Kenyans submit applications each year, hoping for a chance at permanent residency in the United States.
The State Department emphasized that the fee will help deter fraudulent applications, which in the past have included multiple entries by single applicants or submissions made by unauthorized agents.
“The nominal fee is meant to discourage abuse of the system while ensuring fairness,” the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi explained.
However, the move has drawn mixed reactions. Immigration lawyer Daniel Kibe noted, While the amount is small, the symbolism matters. For low-income applicants, even Sh130 can be a barrier. The U.S. risks appearing to monetize opportunity.
Diaspora groups in the U.S. echoed similar concerns, warning that the new requirement may disadvantage vulnerable applicants.
“We urge the U.S. government to ensure the system remains inclusive and does not shut out deserving candidates from poorer backgrounds,” said Jane Atieno, chair of a Kenyan diaspora association in Texas.
Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has advised applicants to only use official U.S. government platforms when submitting entries and to avoid third-party agents who may exploit the new fee requirement.
Applications for the Diversity Visa 2027 program remain open until November 5, 2025, with successful applicants expected to be announced in May 2026.
The U.S. issues 55,000 Green Cards annually worldwide under the program, with Africa receiving a significant share.
For hopeful Kenyans, the new cost is a reminder of both the high demand and stiff competition for opportunities abroad, and the enduring dream of building new lives in America.
