In 2026, more luxury buyers than ever are using foreign currency loans Kenya to finance their Ksh 300M+ homes in Karen, Runda, Lavington, Kitisuru and Muthaiga.
Why? Lower interest rates, currency matching (if you earn abroad), and protection against shilling depreciation.
Here are the 8 best foreign currency loan options available right now — who they’re for, the rates, and the real pros/cons.
1. Standard Chartered International Mortgage – The Gold Standard for Foreign Currency Loans Kenya
- Currencies: USD, GBP, EUR
- Rate: 5.5 % – 7.2 % (fixed or variable)
- Max LTV: 70 %
- Max loan: USD 5M equivalent
- Approval time: 14–28 days
- Why it wins: Truly international banking — they understand diaspora income completely
- Perk: No need for local guarantor if you bank with them abroad
2. Stanbic Bank Offshore Mortgage – The Diaspora Favourite
- Currencies: USD, GBP
- Rate: 6.2 % – 8.1 %
- Max LTV: 75 %
- Max loan: USD 4M equivalent
- Approval time: 10–21 days
- Why it wins: Seamless link to Stanbic accounts in UK, South Africa, USA
- Perk: Rate hedging options to protect against currency swings
3. Absa International Home Loan – The GBP & EUR Specialist
- Currencies: GBP, EUR, USD
- Rate: 5.8 % – 7.5 %
- Max LTV: 70 %
- Max loan: GBP 3M equivalent
- Approval time: 12–25 days
- Why it wins: Strong for UK and European diaspora
- Perk: 6-month payment holiday when moving back
4. NCBA Offshore Property Finance – The Flexible One
- Currencies: USD, GBP
- Rate: 6.5 % – 8.5 %
- Max LTV: 80 % (highest available)
- Max loan: USD 3.5M equivalent
- Approval time: 15–30 days
- Why it wins: More flexible on self-employed or business income abroad
5. I&M Bank International Mortgage – The High-Value Option
- Currencies: USD, GBP, EUR
- Rate: 6.0 % – 7.8 %
- Max LTV: 65 %
- Max loan: USD 6M+ (highest ceiling)
- Approval time: 18–35 days
- Why it wins: Will finance multiple properties under one facility
- Perk: Interest-only for first 3 years
6. KCB Diaspora Property Loan – The Fastest for USD Earners
- Currencies: USD only
- Rate: 7.0 % – 9.0 %
- Max LTV: 75 %
- Max loan: USD 3M equivalent
- Approval time: 7–18 days
- Why it wins: Quickest processing for US-based Kenyans
7. Equity Bank Global Mortgage – The Multi-Currency All-Rounder
- Currencies: USD, GBP, EUR
- Rate: 7.2 % – 9.5 %
- Max LTV: 70 %
- Max loan: USD 4M equivalent
- Approval time: 20–40 days
- Why it wins: Good for mixed income sources
8. Co-op Bank International Home Finance – The Reliable Backup
- Currencies: USD, GBP
- Rate: 7.5 % – 9.8 %
- Max LTV: 70 %
- Max loan: USD 2.5M equivalent
- Approval time: 21–45 days
- Why it wins: Strong branch network for when you move back
Quick 2026 Foreign Currency Loans Kenya Comparison Table
| Bank | Best Rate 2026 | Max LTV | Max Loan (USD equiv) | Approval Days | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| StanChart International | 5.5–7.2 % | 70 % | 5M | 14–28 | True international earners |
| Stanbic Offshore | 6.2–8.1 % | 75 % | 4M | 10–21 | Diaspora with Stanbic abroad |
| Absa International | 5.8–7.5 % | 70 % | 3M GBP | 12–25 | UK/EU diaspora |
| NCBA Offshore | 6.5–8.5 % | 80 % | 3.5M | 15–30 | Self-employed abroad |
| I&M International | 6.0–7.8 % | 65 % | 6M+ | 18–35 | Very high-value purchases |
The Bottom Line
Foreign currency loans Kenya in 2026 are the smartest way for diaspora and international earners to buy luxury homes — lower rates, currency protection, and often easier approval than shilling loans. this is the reason why we exist as Realty Boris to help you acquire the best investment for the right property in Nairobi.
The key is matching the loan to your income currency and long-term plans.
Want the 2026 Foreign Currency Mortgage Guide with live rate updates, document checklists and direct banker contacts for diaspora buyers? Contact Realty Boris today and get the best advice on mortgaging from abroad and diaspora. We have the best tips and insights into the Kenya property market especially Nairobi’s upmarket around Kilimani, Lavington, Kileleshwa, Westlands, Riverside, Loresho and even Muthangari drive. What are you waiting for?
