“This is global practice“: U.S. Ambassador comments on difficulties in obtaining visas for Kazakhstanis

Tengrinews.kz – U.S. Ambassador to Kazakhstan, Julie Stufft, addressed questions about why it is difficult for Kazakhstanis to obtain tourist visas to the U.S. during a briefing at the embassy.
Julie Stufft explained the process of obtaining visas for Kazakhstanis, detailing how the issuance of tourist visas works and the role of the U.S. embassy and consulate in Almaty.

"The structure that regulates visa issuance, the interview for a tourist visa, the application to the embassy, and the cost of submission is part of global practice. It has nothing to do with Kazakhstan. This process is the same worldwide and is regulated by U.S. law," the ambassador clarified.

According to the ambassador, Kazakhstanis applying for visas receive them within the maximum limits allowed by U.S. law.

"If we compare with other countries, the situation in Kazakhstan is very good. As I mentioned earlier, hundreds and thousands of visas are issued by this embassy and the consulate in Almaty daily and weekly, and this number continues to grow," she added.

Earlier, Ambassador Julie Stufft also commented on the suspension of the Green Card Lottery.
In September 2025, U.S. authorities tightened the rules for applying for non-immigrant visas, including B1/B2 tourist visas. Now, applications can only be submitted in the country of citizenship or permanent residence.