---
title: United States visa for citizens of Lesotho
description: "Citizens of Lesotho need a visa for the United States and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Stay up to 180 days. Fee: $185. Processing: 3–14 days. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/united-states/lesotho
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# United States visa for citizens of Lesotho

Citizens of Lesotho need a visa for the United States and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

*Verified · last checked 2026-09-05. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.*

Official application site: https://ceac.state.gov/genniv/

## Key facts

- **Entry route:** Embassy / VFS · B1/B2 Visitor Visa
- **How to apply:** In-person at an embassy or visa center
- **Maximum stay:** Up to 180 days
- **Visa validity:** 3650 days
- **Entries:** Multiple entry
- **Processing time:** 3–14 days
- **Government fee:** $185
- **Passport validity:** At least 6 months
- **Biometrics:** Required
- **Appointment:** Required
- **Interview:** Required
- **Onward or return ticket:** Not required

## How to apply

1. **Complete DS-160 form online** — Fill out the Nonimmigrant Visa Application form at ceac.state.gov
2. **Pay visa application fee** — Pay the non-refundable MRV fee (USD 185) online or at bank
3. **Schedule visa interview appointment** — Use the AIS portal to book an appointment at the embassy
4. **Attend visa interview** — Bring all required documents to the embassy on the scheduled date
5. **Wait for processing** — Processing typically takes 3-14 business days
6. **Collect passport and visa** — Passport will be returned via courier or embassy pick-up

## Documents checklist

- **Valid passport with at least 6 months validity** (Identity): Include any old passports with US visas
- **DS-160 confirmation page** (Supporting): Print the barcode page
- **Visa application fee receipt** (Supporting): Pay the MRV fee online or at designated bank
- **Passport-sized photograph** (Identity): Meet US visa photo requirements
- **Bank statements (last 3-6 months)** (Financial, optional): Show sufficient funds for trip
- **Employment letter or proof of ties** (Employment, optional): Verify job status and intention to return
- **Travel itinerary** (Travel, optional): Include flight reservations and accommodation details
- **Proof of accommodation** (Travel, optional): Hotel bookings or invitation letter
- **Previous US visa copies (if any)** (Travel, optional): Evidence of previous travel

## Proof of funds

- bank statements
- pay stubs
- tax returns

## Good to know

- Visa does not guarantee entry into the United States; final decision by CBP at port of entry
- Processing times may vary based on consular workload and individual circumstances

## Common refusal reasons

- **Insufficient ties to home country** — Provide strong evidence of employment, family, and property ties
- **Incomplete or inaccurate application** — Double-check all entries on DS-160 and documents

## FAQs

### Do citizens of Lesotho need a visa for the United States?

Citizens of Lesotho need a visa for the United States and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: B1/B2 Visitor Visa.

### How long can citizens of Lesotho stay in the United States?

Up to 180 days.

### How much does the United States visa cost for citizens of Lesotho?

Government fee: $185.

### How long does United States visa processing take?

Typically 3–14 days.

### What documents do citizens of Lesotho need for the United States?

Valid passport with at least 6 months validity; DS-160 confirmation page; Visa application fee receipt; Passport-sized photograph; Bank statements (last 3-6 months); Employment letter or proof of ties; and 3 more depending on your situation.

### How long must my passport be valid for the United States?

At least 6 months.

### Where do I apply?

On the official site: https://ceac.state.gov/genniv/

## Sources

- [ceac.state.gov](https://ceac.state.gov/genniv/)

## More

- [United States visa for every passport](/visa/united-states)
- [Every destination for Lesotho passport holders](/visa/passport/lesotho)