Kenya to United Kingdom tourist visa

Complete UK Standard Visitor Visa requirements, fees, processing times, and approval tips for Kenyan citizens. Updated December 2025.

Required documents

Valid Passport — Your current Kenyan passport must be valid for the entire duration of your planned stay in the UK
Online Application — Complete the online visa application form on the gov.uk website
Bank Statements — Bank statements showing sufficient funds to cover your trip and daily expenses
Employment Evidence — Documentation proving your employment status and income
Travel Plans — Details of your planned activities and accommodation in the UK
Ties to Home Country — Evidence demonstrating your intention to return to Kenya
Biometrics Appointment — Fingerprints and photograph taken at TLScontact visa application centre in Nairobi
TB Test Certificate — Tuberculosis test certificate from an approved clinic in Kenya

Genuine intention to visit for — Genuine intention to visit for a permitted purpose and leave at the end of your stay 3
Sufficient funds to cover all — Sufficient funds to cover all costs without working or accessing public funds 3
Ability to pay for your — Ability to pay for your return journey and any other costs relating to your visit 3
Valid travel document with at — Valid travel document with at least one blank page for the visa 3
TB test certificate from an — TB test certificate from an approved clinic 5
Information in your application requires — Information in your application requires further consideration

How long can I stay in the UK on a tourist visa?: The Standard Visitor Visa allows you to stay for up to 6 months per visit. However, you cannot live in the UK through frequent or successive visits. Immigration officers may question you if you spend more time in the UK than in Kenya.
Can I work on a UK tourist visa?: No, the Standard Visitor Visa does not permit any form of paid or unpaid work in the UK. This includes freelance work, even for clients outside the UK. If you need to work, you’ll need to apply for an appropriate work visa.
How long does UK visa processing take from Kenya?: Standard processing takes 3 weeks from your biometrics appointment. Priority service (£500) delivers a decision within 5 working days. Super Priority service (£1,000) provides a decision by the end of the next working day.
What is the UK tourist visa fee for Kenyans in 2025?: The Standard Visitor Visa fee is £127 for stays up to 6 months. Long-term visas are available: 2 years (£475), 5 years (£848), or 10 years (£1,059). TLScontact service charges apply separately.
Do I need a TB test for a UK visa?: Yes, Kenyan applicants must provide a tuberculosis test certificate from an IOM-approved clinic. The test must be completed before your visa application is processed.
Do I need to book flights before applying?: No, you are not required to book flights before applying. The UK government advises against booking non-refundable travel until your visa is approved.