The US is consolidating Africa visa processing into 20 regional hubs, with Kampala remaining a full-service center. This shift raises practical questions for travelers, workers, and security teams. Below you'll find concise FAQs that cover how the changes affect travel, which countries keep full services, and what applicants should prepare for as hubs shift operations.
Travelers in affected countries will need to visit designated hubs for visa interviews rather than applying at a local post. This could mean longer trips to the hub location, potential scheduling waits, and planning for travel to a different country. The goal is to streamline security and processing, but timing and required steps may vary by country and hub.
Kampala remains a full-service hub in the new structure. Other posts are being shut or pared back as part of consolidation. Exact hub assignments and which posts reduce service are defined by the State Department and will be implemented over the coming months, with travelers advised to check the official listings for their country.
Officials cite improved fraud detection, staffing efficiency, and tighter security screening as key drivers. Centralizing interviews and processing at larger hubs is intended to reduce fraud, speed up processing times overall, and better allocate resources where demand is highest. Applicants should expect standardized security procedures across hubs.
Implementation is expected to begin in June, with ongoing updates as assignments are finalized. Applicants should monitor official government notices or contact their nearest embassy for the exact hub mapping and appointment requirements for their country.
Prepare all standard visa documents as instructed by the issuing authority, including forms, photographs, and supporting materials. Check hub-specific guidance for any additional requirements, such as security checks or extra documentation. Arrive early, bring identification, and be ready for stricter verification at central hubs.
Centralization can streamline some processes but may initially cause backlogs as systems adjust. Timing will vary by hub and country. Applicants should book appointments as early as possible and plan for potential delays, keeping an eye on official status updates.
US plans to centralise visa processing across Africa could increase cross-border travel for visa applicants.