The United Kingdom’s Deputy High Commissioner and Permanent Representative to the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), Ed Barnett, has responded to questions raised by visa applicants.
Speaking in an interview with NTV on July 1, 2025, the UK diplomat acknowledged the frustrations experienced at the Visa Application Centre following a recent change in the service provider.
“We have recently changed the service provider as part of that process, but we take the complaints and the feedback seriously. We are currently investigating this to understand what is causing the frustrations and tensions, and what we can do to make the process easier and simpler for Kenyans when they apply for a UK visa,” said Ed Barnett.
Ed Barnett clarified that despite the switch in the visa service provider, there are currently no plans to offer refunds or partial refunds for previously rejected visa applications.
Why Change of Visa Service Provider?
Barnett added that while the UK visa process must remain guided by clear regulations to ensure fairness and transparency, the recent change in service provider is part of ongoing efforts to reduce the burden on applicants.
“We are looking into those complaints right now to try and reduce as much of that friction as possible,” he added.
Additionally, Barnett advised applicants to thoroughly review the visa guidelines and ensure they provide comprehensive supporting documents, which will improve the chances of a successful application.
Also Read: UK Visa Agency Announces Application Changes for Kenyan Applicants
Reasons for Denials
Moreover, he outlined the key reasons why some Kenyans are denied UK visas, which are due to insufficient documentation.
He explained that visa officers typically assess an applicant’s employment status and ties to Kenya to determine whether they are likely to return home after visiting the UK.
“Often, the reasons tend to be not enough evidence demonstrating either those ties or that employment status. It might be obvious to someone, for example, a father of two with a stable job, that they will come back. But the process requires documentary proof to support that,” he said.
Barnett encouraged applicants to ensure they submit clear documentation proving their intent to return, such as employment letters, property ownership, family, responsibilities, or other relevant ties to Kenya.
Also Read: UK Visa Centre in Nairobi Exposed for Exploiting Kenyans
Complaints & Rejections
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 realize 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.
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