UK envoy explains why most Kenyans fail to secure visa
By Nancy Marende, July 1, 2025The United Kingdom (UK) Deputy High Commissioner Ed Barnett has explained why most Kenyans fail to secure a UK visa for travel or studies.
Speaking at a local TV station on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, Barnett detailed that Kenyans often struggle to prove their employment status and ties to the country.
The diplomat further said that most Kenyans fail to prove, once granted the visa, they will return to the country after the lapse of their stay in the UK.
‘The reasons tend to be a lack of enough evidence to demonstrate employment status and ties to Kenya, showing that you will return to the country,” he said.
Refunds
At the same time, Barnett weighed in on the refund debate, which had been going on for some time.
He has clarified that there is no plan to refund money to applicants whose applications have been rejected and urged Kenyans to adhere to the guidelines.
“There is no plan to provide refunds when applications are rejected. We encourage applicants to read the guidelines carefully and provide as much evidence as possible when applying to increase the likelihood of success in applications,” he said.
However, he said systems are in place to make the process more efficient following complaints by the public on social media.
“We are aware of the frustrations Kenyans have been facing when applying for UK visas. We recently changed the service provider as part of the process. We take complaints and feedback very seriously. We are looking into what is causing these frustrations and what we can do to make the process easier and simpler.”
Visa allocation
Additionally, he stated that there will be policies and regulations to ensure fairness and transparency in visa allocation.
“There will be processes and regulations, policies that guide the allocation of visas to applicants to provide a fair, transparent process for applications,” he added.
Despite the complaints, Barnett clarified that most visa applications by Kenyans are approved.
“Some are denied, yes, and understandably, people feel frustrated, especially when they realise certain documents were missing from their application pack,” he said.
He stressed the importance of public awareness and preparedness when applying, noting that the more applicants understand the process and requirements, the easier it becomes to assemble a strong application.
“There’s nothing we want more than to welcome the brilliant Kenyans who come to study, to work, or to visit the UK,” Barnett added.