UK Standard Visitor Visa for Kenyans (Tourism)

What is the Standard Visitor Visa (Tourism)?

The Standard Visitor Visa allows Kenyan citizens to visit the UK for tourism and leisure purposes for up to 6 months. This is the visa you need if you want to:

• Go on holiday and sightseeing in London, Edinburgh, or other UK destinations
• Attend events like concerts, sports matches, or festivals
• Take a short course of study (up to 30 days)

The key requirement is proving you are a "genuine visitor" – someone who will leave the UK at the end of their trip and not overstay or work illegally.

If you're visiting to see relatives or friends, you may want to check the Family & Friends Visitor Visa guide instead, as the evidence requirements differ slightly.

The "Genuine Visitor" Test

This is the most important concept for Kenyan tourist visa applicants. The Entry Clearance Officer (ECO) will assess whether you:

• Will leave the UK at the end of your visit
• Have enough funds to support yourself without working
• Have strong ties to Kenya that will make you return
• Have a credible travel plan with clear dates and itinerary

Financial Evidence for Kenyan Tourists

This is where many Kenyan applications fail. Here's how to present your finances correctly:

Bank Statements

Provide 6 months of bank statements from your main account. The officer will check:

• Regular income deposits (salary, business income)
• No large unexplained deposits (this is called "funds parking" and leads to refusal)
• A healthy balance that shows you can afford your trip

M-Pesa Statements

If you use M-Pesa frequently, include your Safaricom statement. Officers understand mobile money is common in Kenya, but they want to see the source of funds – not just the transfers.

How Much Money Do You Need?

There is no official minimum, but a safe estimate is:

• Flights: KES 80,000 - 150,000 (return ticket)
• Accommodation: £50-150 per night
• Daily expenses: £100 per day for food, transport, activities

For a 2-week trip, having access to KES 300,000 - 500,000 or equivalent is reasonable. The key is that your income explains your savings.

Travel Itinerary Requirements

Common Mistake: Many Kenyan applicants simply say "I want to visit London." This is too vague and raises suspicion.

What You Should Do:

• List specific attractions (e.g., "Big Ben, Tower of London, British Museum")
• Show day-by-day plan even if approximate
• Book refundable hotels or show accommodation options
• Have a return flight booking (can be a dummy ticket/reservation)

Proving Your Ties to Kenya

The officer needs to believe you will come back. Strong evidence includes:

• Employment Letter: Confirming your job, salary, and approved leave dates
• Business Ownership: CR12, business permits, contracts
• Property: Title deeds, rent agreements
• Family: Marriage certificate, children's birth certificates (if applicable)

The #1 reason Kenyan tourists get refused is weak "ties to Kenya." If you're young, single, and unemployed, your application is very risky without strong alternative evidence.

The Application Process from Kenya

1. Complete Online Form: Apply on the official GOV.UK website. Takes 30-60 minutes.
2. Pay Visa Fee: £115 for 6-month visa (paid online by card).
3. Book Biometrics: Schedule appointment at VFS Global in Nairobi or Mombasa.
4. Submit Documents: Upload supporting documents online.
5. Attend Appointment: Give fingerprints and photograph at the visa centre.
6. Wait for Decision: Usually 3-4 weeks, can be faster with priority service.

Common Reasons for Tourist Visa Refusal

• Funds Parking: Large deposits appearing just before application
• Vague Itinerary: No clear travel plan or purpose
• Weak Ties: No job, property, or family obligations in Kenya
• Inconsistent Information: Form answers don't match documents
• Previous Overstay: History of overstaying in other countries

Application Timeline for Kenyan Tourists