United Kingdom eVisa
UK Visa Requirements & Application Process In Kenya
Kenyan citizens who wish to travel to the United Kingdom for tourism, study, business, or family visits must apply for a UK visa before departure.
The UK visa application process for applicants in Kenya is completed online through the UK Government visa portal, followed by a biometric appointment at a UK Visa Application Centre in Nairobi, Mombasa, or Eldoret.
This guide explains the UK visa requirements for Kenyan citizens, required documents, fees, and step-by-step application process
Step-by-Step UK Visa Application Process in Kenya
What steps are involved when applying for UK Visa in Kenya?
- Determine the correct visa type
- Prepare the necessary Supporting documents
- Complete the online application
- Pay the Visa Fees
- Book biometric appointment
- Prepare/Upload required supporting documents
- Attend appointment & submit application
- Visa processing
- eVisa/Decision sent to your email
- Create a UKVI account & Link your eVisa
UK Visa Requirements for Kenyan Citizens
Valid Passport: Kenyan passport with at least six months validity from the intended date of travel.
Completed Visa Application Form: Online UK Standard Visitor visa application form fully completed and submitted.
Bank Statements: Recent 6 months bank statements showing sufficient funds to cover travel and stay.
Purpose of Visit Letter: Clear explanation of the purpose of travel, itinerary, and planned activities.
Tuberculosis (TB) Test Certificate: Required only for applicants staying more than six months and must be from an approved clinic.
Biometric Information: Fingerprints and a digital photograph must be provided at a UK Visa Application Centre in Kenya.
Visa Application Fee Payment: Payment of the required visa fee (approximately $175USD) at the time of online submission.
- Invitation letter form the host in UK
OPTIONAL
- Travel Insurance Certificate: Recommended insurance coverage for medical, emergency, and travel-related risks
Flight Booking Confirmation: Confirmed round-trip flight reservation or travel itinerary showing planned entry and exit dates.
Accommodation Confirmation Letter: Proof of hotel booking or other accommodation covering the entire duration of the stay in the UK.
Also Read:
UK Visa Application Information in Kenya
Types of UK Visas
Depending on the purpose of your travel, the UK offers several visa categories:
- UK Standard Visitor Visa
- For tourism, transiting through the UK, visiting family or friends, business meetings, or short study courses (up to 6 months).
- UK Student Visa (Tier 4)
- For those enrolled in long-term courses at UK educational institutions.
- UK Work Visas
- Includes Skilled Worker Visa, Health and Care Worker Visa, and Temporary Worker Visas.
- UK Family Visa
- For joining a spouse, partner, or family member who is a UK citizen or settled person.
- UK Transit Visa
- For passing through the UK on your way to another destination.
- Other UK Visa Categories
- Innovator Founder Visa, Graduate Visa, Start-up Visa, and others depending on your situation.
UK Visa Fees
*The Above fees must be paid online using credit or debit card – Mpesa or bank transfer payments are not accepted.
*For updated visa fees please visit the official UKVI website
Additional Costs to Consider:
- Biometric Appointment Fee (MUP) – Mombasa Centre attracts an additional fee of GBP 76.50.
- Additional Services: Document Upload, Keep My Passport, Premium Lounge, Passport Delivery
Priority Processing Fees:
- GBP 500 – Priority Service
- GBP 1,000 – Super Priority Service
Visa Application Centres in Kenya
All UK visa applications in Kenya are handled by VFS Global (effective November 2024), the official UK Visa Application Centre partner, where applicants must submit their biometrics and supporting documents.
Visa Application Centre – Nairobi
Address: 1st Floor, Principle place, Westlands, Nairobi, Kenya.
Take me to the address
Business Hours:
Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) – 08:00 to 17:00
SPV Application Submission:
Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) – 08:00 to 11:00
Passport Collection:
Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) – 14:00 to 17:00
Passport Collection Outside Hours (service fee applies):
Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) – 09:00 to 13:30
Visa Application Centre – Mombasa
Address: 8th Floor, Imaara- The new address, Dedan Kimathi Avenue, Kizingo, Mombasa, Kenya. Take me to the address
Business Hours:
Tuesday (excluding public holidays) – 08:00 to 17:00
Passport Collection:
Tuesday (excluding public holidays) – 12:00 to 15:00
Passport Collection Outside Hours (service fee applies):
Tuesday (excluding public holidays) – 09:00 to 12:00
Documents to Bring to Your Visa Appointment
When attending your biometrics appointment at the UK Visa Application Centre, make sure you have the following:
Appointment Confirmation Letter – Printed copy received from VFS Global.
Valid Passport or travel document – With at least 1 page that is blank. (If you are applying for a visa category where you will receive an eVisa only, your passport does not have to contain a blank page.)
A printout of your document checklist – As part of your completed online application.
Visa Payment Receipt – Printed from the UK Government visa portal.
Supporting Documents – As listed in your document checklist (e.g., bank statements, employment letters, invitation letters).
Priority Service Receipt – If you paid for priority or super-priority processing.
Application Tracking
- Complete your application through the UK Government visa portal and pay the applicable fees.
Submit your biometrics and required documents at the designated VFS Global Visa Application Centre.
Visit the official VFS Global tracking page tracking page.
Enter your GWF reference number and the email address used for your application.
Once logged in, select “Track Application/Passport”.
The current progress of your application will be displayed on the screen.
| Status | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Application submitted to UKVI | Sent to UKVI for processing. |
| Decision received from UKVI | UKVI has made a decision. |
| Passport ready for collection/courier | Passport is back at VAC or with courier. |
| Passport delivered | Passport has been handed to you. |
Expert Tips:
VFS Global cannot make visa decisions – they are only middlemen between you and UKVI. So, if your status is “In Processing” for a while, it means the decision is still with UKVI, not the VAC. Contact UK Visas and Immigration to check the status
Processing Time
Knowing how long a UK visa takes to process helps you plan your travel, work start date, or studies more effectively. Processing times depend on:
Visa type (visit, work, study, family, settlement, transit etc.
Seasonal demand (peak travel periods often take longer)
Whether you use priority services
Below is a breakdown of the average UK visa processing times in 2025.
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Frequently Asked Questions - UK Visa Application in Kenya
Can you help if I've overstayed or have visa issues in the UK?
Yes. We can advise on the best course of action and guide you through resolving your immigration status.
Do I need an interview for my UK visa?
Not always. Some applications require interviews, while others are decided based on submitted documents. If an interview is required, it will take place over the phone or through Microsoft Teams and often last about an hour
Can I apply again if my UK visa was refused?
Before reapplying, check if your visa type allows an Administrative Review (for UKVI errors) or an Appeal (mainly for human rights or family cases). While there’s no mandatory waiting period after a refusal(you can re-apply immediately), it’s best to address all refusal reasons first. If the refusal involved false documents or deception, you must wait until the ban expires.
What documents do I need for a UK visa application?
Generally, you’ll need a valid passport, proof of funds, evidence of your reason for travel (such as an invitation letter, work contract, or CAS for students), and any additional supporting documents specific to your visa type.
What documents do I need for my a UK visa appointment?
You will need:
A valid passport or travel document
Your Document Checklist and appointment confirmation
Proof of payment for the visa fee and other services
Supporting documents relevant to your visa type (e.g., bank statements, invitation letters, work contracts, or CAS for students)
How early can I apply for a UK visa?
You must not apply more than 3 months before your intended travel date
Do I need travel insurance for a UK visa?
It is not mandatory, but having travel insurance is strongly recommended for your safety and peace of mind.
Where can I get help filling out my UK visa application form?
You can get help from reputable immigration advisers or visa consultants from Greentod Visa Solutions . Our team will guide you through the form, ensure all sections are completed accurately, and help you gather the correct supporting documents to avoid delays or refusals. Get help with my visa application.
Where do I go for my UK visa biometric appointment?
In Kenya, UK visa biometric appointments are handled at Visa and Citizenship Application Services (VCAS) centres operated by VFSglobal. There are two locations available:
Nairobi
Mombasa
You can choose your preferred centre when booking your appointment, and the full address will be provided in your confirmation.
Do I need to book travel before applying for a UK visa?
No. You do not need to pay for flights or accommodation before applying. However, you may need to provide an intended travel itinerary.
Can I apply for a UK visa while in another country?
Yes, you can apply from most countries where you are legally residing on a long-term visa. However, you must attend a biometric appointment in that country. You cannot usually apply from a country where you are only on a short-term or visitor visa.
How long is my UK visa valid for?
The validity period depends on your visa type. For example, a standard visitor visa can be valid for 6 months, 2 years, 5 years, or 10 years.
How do I know if my UK visa has been approved?
You will receive an email from UKVI or the Visa Application Centre once a decision is made. If approved, your passport will be returned with the visa vignette inside.
Will my visa fee be refunded if my application is refused?
No, UK visa fees are generally non-refundable, even if your application is refused.
What should I wear to my UK visa appointment?
There is no strict dress code, but dressing neatly is recommended, especially if an interview is involved.
Can I apply for a UK visa urgently?
Yes, priority and super-priority services are available in Kenya. Super-priority service is offered only in Nairobi and must be submitted before 11:00 a.m.
How long is my UK visa valid for, and how long can I stay in the UK?
The validity of your UK visa depends on the type of visa issued. For example, standard visitor visas may be valid for 6 months, 2 years, 5 years, or 10 years. However, you can only stay in the UK within the dates stated on your visa and must leave before it expires, even if the visa itself is valid for a longer period.
How soon can I apply after visa has been refused?
The validity of your UK visa depends on the type of visa issued. For example, standard visitor visas may be valid for 6 months, 2 years, 5 years, or 10 years. However, you can only stay in the UK within the dates stated on your visa and must leave before it expires, even if the visa itself is valid for a longer period.
GET ASSISTANCE WITH YOUR UK VISA APPLICATION IN KENYA
Planning to travel to the UK? The visa process requires accurate documentation, timely submission, and professional guidance. At Greentod Visa Solutions, we help you navigate the UK visa application process with ease – saving you time, reducing stress, and improving your chances of approval.
Ready to start your Visa Journey to the UK? Start here!
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- Dedicated Visa Manager
- eVisa Account Creation
- Door to Door Service
- 24hr Processing
- Online Document Upload
- Cover letter by Specialist
- 24hr Chat/Call Support
- Flight & Hotel Reserved
- Day-by-day Trip Plan
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- Embassy Liason
- Travel Insurance
- Free Re-application
- Collect on Behalf
- Compliant Photos
Disclaimer
Greentod Visas & Travel Solutions is a Kenyan-based visas and Immigration consultancy dedicated to supporting clients through every step of their visa application & Immigration journey. While we work independently and are not affiliated with any embassy, our role is to provide guidance, document support, and application assistance. Visa issuance is solely at the discretion of the relevant embassy or immigration authority, and we do not guarantee approval or denial of any application.
