Kenyan Teachers in the United States
J-1 Visa for Kenyan Teachers: Teach in the United States

Kenyan Teachers: The World is Your Classroom – Elevate Your Career with Teach USA

Through the BridgeUSA Teacher program, qualified Kenyan educators can pursue full-time paid teaching positions at accredited K-12 schools in the United States for up to 5 years.

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92%
Supervisors Rate Program Beneficial
87%
Teachers Rate Experience Excellent
5
Years Maximum Program Duration
50+
States Where Kenyan Teachers Can Work

BridgeUSA Teacher Exchange Program for Kenyan Educators

The BridgeUSA Teacher program creates opportunities for Kenyan educators to engage in teaching in the United States, allowing them to explore a new educational and cultural environment while sharing Kenya's rich educational traditions and cultural perspectives with American students.

For Kenyan Teachers

Gain valuable experience in the U.S. education system, develop classroom management skills, and build relationships with students while sharing Kenya's educational excellence and cultural heritage.

For U.S. Schools

Enhance student learning through Kenyan perspectives, encourage new approaches and exchange of ideas for staff and administration, and bring diverse voices to your educational community.

What We Offer Kenyan Teachers

J-1 Visa Sponsorship
Up to three years for qualified Kenyan teachers for full-time paid teaching positions at accredited K-12 schools.
Program Extension
Option to request an additional two years from the government for a total of up to 5 years.
J-2 Dependent Sponsorship
For spouse or children to join Kenyan J-1 teacher (does not include work permit).
Expedited Service
Options for expedited service guaranteeing completed applications are evaluated in ten business days.
24/7 Support
24-hour emergency support for Kenyan participants and host schools throughout your program.
Cultural Activities
Cultural and educational activities and networking events in select cities.

Eligibility Requirements for Kenyan Teachers

For Kenyan Teachers

  • Citizenship: Kenyan citizen (non-U.S. citizen)
  • Experience: Minimum of two years of full-time teaching experience at K-12 schools in Kenya as a lead teacher
  • Education: Minimum equivalent of a 4-year U.S. bachelor's degree in education or the subject you plan to teach
  • Job Offer: Formal written offer from an accredited U.S. primary or secondary school
  • English Proficiency: Must demonstrate English language proficiency (IELTS or TOEFL scores may be required)
  • Character: Must be of good reputation and character (police clearance certificate required)
  • Health: Must meet U.S. health requirements (medical examination required)

For U.S. Schools

  • Accreditation: Must be an accredited public or private primary and secondary school
  • Position Type: Full-time, teacher of record with duties, hours and compensation commensurate with American teachers
  • Teaching Mode: In-person teaching only
  • Staff Limit: No more than 20% of teaching staff can be J-1 teachers
  • Position Scope: Non-instructional positions do not qualify
  • Location: Must be in an approved state for public schools

Approved States for Kenyan Teachers in Public Schools

Kenyan teachers can work in public schools in the following states:

Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and Washington, D.C.

Application Process for Kenyan Teachers

01
Initiate Application
Submit application after receiving a job offer from a U.S. school. Plan for 2 months total processing time including visa interview.
02
Application Evaluation
Cultural Vistas evaluates your information and issues a sponsorship decision within 4-6 weeks.
03
DS-2019 Issuance
If approved, we issue the DS-2019 Certificate of Eligibility required for visa interview scheduling.
04
Visa Interview
Attend appointment at U.S. Embassy in Nairobi with original DS-2019. Processing takes 2-4 weeks.

Program Costs for Kenyan Teachers

Cultural Vistas Program Fees

One Year Program

$1,750

Two Year Program

$2,250

*These costs are strictly related to obtaining the visa and Cultural Vistas' services. Additional costs include visa fees, travel, accommodation, and living expenses.

Additional Costs for Kenyan Teachers

  • • Non-immigrant visa fee: $185 (paid in USD)
  • • Flight from Nairobi to U.S. destination: $800-$1,500
  • • Travel and accommodation expenses
  • • Monthly living costs (rent, food, transportation)
  • • Medical insurance and healthcare costs
  • • Emergency funds (recommended: at least $3,000)
  • • Credential evaluation fees (if required)
  • • English proficiency test fees (IELTS/TOEFL)

Why U.S. Schools Choose Kenyan Teachers

92% of Supervisors Rate Program Beneficial

They agree it enhances student learning through adding global perspectives and encourages new approaches and exchange of ideas for staff and administration.

87% of Teachers Rate Experience Excellent

They report the most useful skills they gain are classroom management, relationship development with students, and English communication.

Benefits for Kenyan Teachers

  • • Gain international teaching experience
  • • Develop new teaching methodologies
  • • Enhance English language skills
  • • Build global professional network
  • • Competitive salary and benefits
  • • Cultural exchange opportunities
  • • Professional development programs
  • • Potential for career advancement

Success Stories from Kenyan Teachers

See how Kenyan teachers have successfully transitioned to teaching in the United States through our J-1 visa program.

Ready to Start Your Teaching Journey in the USA?

Join the BridgeUSA Teacher program and make a difference in American classrooms while advancing your teaching career as a Kenyan educator.

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