The United Kingdom (UK) on Wednesday, June 28, advised Kenyan students seeking to travel to Britain to take note of changes in the visa application process.
In a statement by the UK Embassy in Nairobi, the consulate recommended that the students submit their applications before July 31.
It explained that this is to allow time for approvals, noting that the priority visas would not be available.
"Start thinking about your Student visa application. You should apply in July if possible rather than waiting until August as Priority and Super Priority visas are currently unavailable globally," the statement read in part.
The announcement also applies to students who are already in the UK and seek to extend their visa.
Under normal circumstances, the embassy gave visa applicants within three weeks of submitting their documentation. Students had an option of paying more to expedite the process.
Those eligible can choose the ‘priority service’ and would pay Ksh71,392 (GBP500) and get feedback within five working days while those who need super priority would pay Ksh114,209 (GBP800) for next working day response.
The mandatory requirements for the student permit are a passport or any other valid travel documentation and a confirmation for acceptance of studies (CAS) from the host institution.
"You need a blank page in your passport for your visa if you need to give your biometric information (fingerprints and a photograph) at a visa application centre," reads the requirement list on the Embassy's portal.
Other papers needed include proof of financial ability to fund one's stay and pay for studies, a valid Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate and results of a recent tuberculosis test.
Minors present proof of consent by their parents or legal guardian. They are further required to demonstrate their relationship to the named guardian.
Meanwhile, the Health CS on June 27 flagged off the first batch of 19 nurses travelling to the UK under a partnership between the Kenyan government and the host nation.
