ABSA Personal Loan
ABSA Bank Kenya
Last updated: October 29, 2025
Rating Breakdown
Pros & Cons
Pros
- High loan amounts up to KES 10M
- Long repayment period (up to 6 years)
- Quick 48-hour approval process
- Competitive rates from 14%
- Strong brand with 100+ years in Kenya
- Premier customer benefits
- Digital application process
- Free loan insurance
Cons
- 2.5% processing fee (higher than some competitors)
- 1% early repayment penalty
- CRB clearance strictly required
- Higher minimum income (KES 30,000)
Expert Analysis
ABSA (formerly Barclays) Personal Loan positions itself as a premium product with competitive rates for high-income earners. The minimum income requirement of KES 30,000 is higher than competitors, but rates starting at 13% p.a. reward qualified applicants. ABSA's international banking heritage means stricter credit assessment but also smoother processes for those who qualify. The Timiza mobile app has improved accessibility, allowing preliminary applications via smartphone. Best suited for professionals in formal employment with verifiable income. The 2% processing fee is among the lowest in the traditional banking sector.
Best For
- High-income professionals (KES 100K+ monthly)
- Existing ABSA/Barclays account holders
- Borrowers with clean credit history seeking best rates
- International workers or those with foreign income
- Large loan requirements (KES 2M+) with longer terms
Common Rejection Reasons
- Income below KES 30,000 monthly minimum
- Employment less than 12 months at current position
- Any adverse CRB listing regardless of age
- Self-employed without 2+ years of tax returns
- Application through non-salary account
How It Compares
ABSA offers the best rates for high-income earners but has the strictest requirements. Compared to KCB, ABSA is more selective but rewards qualification with lower rates. Against Equity, ABSA targets a more affluent segment with premium service expectations.
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Product Details
Features
- Loan amounts up to KES 10 million
- Flexible repayment up to 6 years
- Competitive interest rates from 14%
- Quick approval within 48 hours
- Salary advance up to 3x net salary
- Top-up facility on existing loans
- Free loan insurance included
- No hidden charges
- Digital application via app
- Preferential rates for Premier customers
Eligibility Requirements
Required Documents
- National ID or Passport
- KRA PIN Certificate
- Latest 3 months payslips
- Bank statements (6 months)
- Employment letter or business documents
- CRB consent form
Repayment Options
Ready to Apply?
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