uk tourist visa for south africa

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UK visa applications for South Africans: Step-by-step guide

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• Immigration
• Study Abroad

Our step-by-step guide contains all the information you need to know about applying for a UK visa if you're from South Africa. From choosing your visa, to getting your documents, to waiting periods and visa fees, learn all the UK visa application requirements.

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UK visa application guide contents

Step 1: choose your visa.

• Step 2: Passport
• Step 3: Documents
• Step 4: Check visa fees
• Step 5: Apply
• Step 6: Appointments
• Step 7: Waiting period

Step 8: Before you leave

Step 9: enjoy the uk.

There are a host of UK visas that you can apply for. Make sure you choose the right one for your intent. Whether you want to visit, work or study in the UK, there’s a visa for you.

• Visitor visa – For people visiting or studying for 6 months or less
• Skilled Worker visa – For those who are wanting to work in the UK for the long-term
• Global Business Mobility route – A group of five business visas for those looking to move their business to the UK
• Business , Innovator  and Start-up visas  – For those wanting to start a new business in the UK
• Study visas - For those wanting to study longer than six months, such as undergraduate or postgraduate degrees
• Family visas – For those joining family members who are British citizens
• Visas for children – For children joining their parents or legal guardians 
• Ancestry visa – For those who can claim British ancestry

Step 2: Get your passport in order

If you’ve already got a passport, you’ll need to check a couple of things:

• It needs to be valid for the duration of your stay in the UK
• You need at least two blank facing pages for your visa and stamps

If your passport is expired (or about to expire), you’ll need to either renew it or apply for a new one, depending on your nationality.

When you apply for a new passport, you’ll have to do it in person so your identity can be verified. Processing times can vary – expect to wait around seven to 21 working days. Passports are generally valid for 10 years.

When can’t you apply for a UK visa?

If you’re already in the UK, you won’t be able to apply for a visa. You may be able to switch to a different visa or extend your stay while in the UK .

Step 3: Get all your documents

The documents you need depend on the visa you apply for. Research your specific application to check you've got everything in order.

TB test results

South Africans applying for a UK visa valid for longer than six months are required to provide tuberculosis (TB) results. If you have been living in one of the countries that does not require a TB test, and are returning to South Africa to make your application, a TB test won’t be required. Your dedicated caseworker will advise you accordingly. 

Why it’s so important to be tested at a UKVI-approved clinic

If you get tested at a clinic that has not been approved by by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), your application will be denied and you will not be allowed to enter the country on a valid UK visa. It is vital that you contact one of the three clinics below and make them aware that you are undergoing the TB test for a UK visa application.

Before the screening, make sure you bring your passport, two passport-sized photos and proof of payment of your test fee (printed).

Are there any exceptions to this rule?

If you’re planning to stay in the UK for less than six months on a UK visitor visa, you don’t need to get tested for TB.

If you are applying on behalf of a child/children under the age of eleven, they still need to attend the appointment but will most likely not have to undergo a chest x-ray. 

Step 4: Check your visa fees

Different visas have different fees. Make sure you’re prepared by checking how much yours will set you back. Here are some common visas and their respective government application fees*:

*These fees are correct as of 4 October 2024 and are charged by UKVI and exclude any fees charged by us.

Immigration healthcare surcharge

You might need to pay a healthcare surcharge as part of your immigration application, depending on the visa you’re applying for. The current IHS fee of £624 is set to increase to £1,035 at the end of 2023 or early 2024. You’ll have to pay:

• £776 per year for a Student visa, for example £1,552 for a two-year visa
• £776 per year for visa and immigration applicants who are under the age of 18 at the time of application
• £1,035 per year for all other visa and immigration applications, for example £5,120 for a five-year visa

Step 5: Apply for your UK visa

We always recommend letting an experienced immigration consultant help with your visa application. From start to finish, they will be with you at every step. No visa application process is the same, and your requirements will vary according your circumstances.

Once they know what you’re looking for, they will talk you through the process and provide you with all the information you need to ensure a smooth application.

They will also help you get all your documents in order and submit the application on your behalf.

We offer a no visa, no fee service.

Step 6: attend appointments.

As part of your application, you may be required to attend an appointment to capture your biometric information – photos and fingerprints. You’ll need to check what the process is in your country or speak to an advisor if you’re unsure. If we handle your visa application, we’ll let you know well in advance about any appointments you’ll need to attend.

Step 7: The waiting period

After you’ve made your application, all that’s left is to wait for a decision. There are no definite waiting periods, but it’s generally a couple of weeks. Here’s how long it can take per visa category:

It’s important to note that post-Covid these waiting times have increased drastically. You could wait up to 15 weeks for a decision on a Skilled Worker visa, and 24 weeks for a Spousal visa at this point in time.

Aside from your visa, there are a few other things you need to consider before you set off to the UK. Of course, you'll need to book flights to get there. You’ll also need to plan for any costs associated with staying there, such as accommodation, food and transport.

Whatever your reason for going to the UK, we know you’ll have a great time. We’ve been helping people move there for over 20 years. Our clients have had some amazing experiences and success stories. Let us help you get settled in the UK. From opening a UK bank account and getting your NI number , to all-in-one relocation packages - we’re there for you at every step.

Get started on the right foot with your new life in the UK.

Get in touch with us to start your visa application process. Email [email protected] or call +27 (0) 21 657 2180 to get started.

We are a professional services company that specialises in cross-border financial and immigration advice and solutions.

Our teams in the UK, South Africa and Australia can ensure that when you decide to move overseas, invest offshore or expand your business internationally, you'll do so with the backing of experienced local experts.

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UK Visitor Visa for South African citizens

You need to apply for a Visitor Visa if you wish to travel to the UK from South Africa for a short period of time.

Call us on  0333 305 3612  for immediate help & assistance with your situation. We’re here to help you in person, via the phone or online.

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Page contents.

• Visitor Visa requirements for South African applicants
• UK business visitors from South Africa
• Travelling to the UK for medical reasons
• Required supporting documents
• Frequently asked questions
• How can I get help from the IAS

You need to apply for a Visitor Visa if you wish to travel to the UK from South Africa for the following reasons:

• Leisure, such us on holiday or to visit your family and friends;
• Business, or to take part in creative or sports events;
• To receive private medical treatment.

Based on the reason why you wish to enter the UK, you must fill in your application form with several details. Besides, the Home Office may need additional documents to review your case.

To receive professional help with your UK Visitor Visa application, you can get in touch with our UK immigration specialists. Call us today to speak with one of our attorneys.

UK Visitor Visa for South Africans requirements

To qualify for a visa to enter the UK from South Africa, you must demonstrate that you:

• Intend to leave the UK at the end of your visit
• Can pay for your onward journey to South Africa
• Can pay for any costs relating to your visit, as you won’t be able to get public funds
• Can support your family for the duration of your trip, if you are travelling with your dependents
• Have valid proof of any activities you want to do in the UK

Can I travel to the UK from South Africa on business?

You can apply for a Standard Visitor visa for South Africans if you wish to visit the UK for business-related activities. This includes:

• Taking part in certain sports-related events;
• Coming to the UK for a conference, training, or meeting;
• Artists, entertainers or musicians who wish to perform in the UK;
• Academics who are doing research or accompanying students;
• Businesspeople who want to get funding to start or take over a new business in the UK;
• Doctors or dentists coming to the UK to take a clinical attachment.

It must be noted that professionals who are being paid by a UK company to visit as experts in their professions are not eligible for this permit. If this is your case, you must apply for a Permitted Paid Engagement visa.

Requirements for South Africans seeking private medical treatment in the UK

To qualify and seek private medical treatment in the UK, you must:

• Have a medical condition that needs private consultation or treatment in the UK
• Intend to leave the UK once your treatment is completed
• Have made arrangements for consultations or treatment
• Be able to pay for your treatment, as well as for any other expenses relating to your journey
• Not have any infectious disease or be a danger to public health.

Visitor Visa required supporting documents

When you apply for a UK Visitor Visa from South Africa, you need to prepare a bundle of documents, including the following:

• Your passport or any other valid travel document with a blank page
• Additional documents related to your reason to visit the UK
• The dates you are planning to enter and leaving the UK
• Details of where you will be staying during your visit
• The name, address and passport number of your family and friends in the UK

Get in touch with our expert immigration attorneys to learn how to apply for a Visitor Visa.. Contact us

Last modified on August 11th, 2023 at 12:17 pm

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With our Application Package, your dedicated caseworker will advise you on your application process and eligibility. Your legal advisor will then complete and submit your forms to the Home Office on your behalf.

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By choosing our Appeal Package, you can rely on our lawyers’ legal knowledge and experience to ensure you have the highest chance of a successful appeal. We will also fully represent you in any hearings/tribunals.

We offer immigration advice sessions as face to face appointments at all of our UK offices, or via the phone. Learn more

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the uk visitor visa validity.

The UK Visitor Visa for South Africans is valid for 6 months.

However, you may be able to stay for longer if you:

• Are entering the UK for a private medical treatment which requires up to 11 months
• Are an academic and you are coming to the UK for research.

If you intend to remain in the UK for longer than 6 months, you must apply for a biometric residence permit.

How long does it take to get a Visitor Visa from South Africa?

It usually takes up to 3 weeks for the Home Office to decide on a Visitor Visa case. You can submit your application within 3 months from the date you intend to travel to the UK.

What can I do in the UK on a Visitor Visa?

As a South African holding a Visitor Visa, you can:

• Study for up to 30 days, provided that this cannot be your main reason to enter the UK
• Pass through the UK in transit when travelling to other countries
• Take part in all business-related activities allowed by this visa
• Take part in an exchange or educational programme if you are under 18
• Convert your civil partnership into a marriage

What am I not allowed to do in the UK on a Visitor Visa?

While in the UK as an international visitor, you cannot:

• Live in this country for long periods
• Do any type of paid or unpaid work
• Get married or register a civil partnership
• Seek public funds

I’m a South African academic applying for a Visitor Visa. What are the eligibility requirements?

If you are applying as an academic, you may be able to stay in the UK for up to 12 months. However, to qualify, you must prove that you are highly qualified within your field of expertise. You can enter the UK and remain for up to 12 months if you wish to:

• Carry out your own research
• Take part in an exchange programme with a UK counterpart
• Take part in someone else’s research

How much does a visa to visit the UK from South Africa cost?

The Visitor Visa application from South Africa fees are £100 as of February 2023.

Can I use a Visitor Visa to enter the UK regularly?

The Visitor Visa cannot be used to enter the UK regularly over a longer period. If you wish to do that, you can request a long-term Standard Visitor Visa, which lasts from 2 to 10 years based on your circumstances.

To find out more about your options to enter the UK, you can get in touch with IAS’ team of UK immigration attorneys.

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How to Get a UK Tourist Visa in South Africa

Do you need a UK tourist visa to visit your friends and family in the United Kingdom? Or are you planning on doing some business while you're there? Whatever your reason for travelling to the UK, this detailed guide will tell you everything you need to know about applying for a visa. 

South African passport holders are required to have a visa in order to enter the UK, and the process can be a little confusing. But don't worry, we're here to help! In this guide, we'll explain how to apply for a tourist visa online, as well as what documents you'll need to provide. The entire process usually takes around 3 weeks, so make sure you start planning ahead!

Type of Visas

There are two main types of visas available for South African citizens travelling to the UK: Standard Visitor Visa and Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV).

Standard Visitor Visa

This is the most common type of visa, and it's suitable for anyone wishing to travel to the UK for tourism, visiting family and friends, taking part in events or conferences, doing business activities like meeting clients, conducting research or attending trade fairs. It also covers medical treatments that require a visit to the UK. This visa has a validity period of 6 months.

Planning to do business in the UK?

If so, a standard tourism visa may not be enough. You may need a UK Business Visitor Visa. However, certain business activities like attending conferences, meetings, trade fairs, or any sort of business tourism activities are allowed under the tourist visa, so make sure to double-check before applying.

Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV)

This type of visa is only applicable if you need to go through border control at an airport but don't plan on entering the UK itself. This type of visa is for those who are changing flights and don't have time to go through immigration. The DATV has a validity period of 48 hours.

How to Apply For a UK Visa in South Africa

The first step is to fill out the online UK visa application form .

You'll then have to pay the applicable fees and print out a copy of your completed form.

Once that's done, you'll need to take it to one of the UK Visa Application Centres in South Africa, along with all other required documents such as proof of identity, financial stability and accommodation details.

The cost for a Standard Visitor Visa is R1970 (around £95).  DATV visas are slightly cheaper at R750 (£35), but remember that this type of visa has limited validity.

UK Visa Requirements

To apply for a UK tourist visa, you'll need the following documents:

• A completed and printed Visa Application Form
• A completed and printed Visa Application Form Valid passport (valid for 6 months from departure date, with 2 blank pages)
• A completed and printed Visa Application Form Bank statements for the last 3 months
• A completed and printed Visa Application Form Confirmation of salary
• A completed and printed Visa Application Form Proof of residence
• A completed and printed Visa Application Form Letter of employment; if self-employed please provide business registration documents.

Visit the official UK government website for an extensive list of supporting documents. Once you've gathered all the necessary paperwork, it's time to submit your application. The entire process usually takes around 3 weeks before you can travel.

Remember Your Travel Insurance:

Once you've applied for and received your visa, don't forget to get travel insurance for your trip. Allianz Travel provides a wide range of travel insurance options that extend from simple Schengen visa coverage to exclusive annual multi-trip covers.

With Allianz Travel, you'll have the peace of mind knowing that you and your family are covered should anything unexpected happen while traveling.

We hope this guide has been helpful as you prepare for your UK visa application process in South Africa. Good luck!

UK Tourist Visa From South Africa: A Step-by-Step Guide

Planning a trip to the United Kingdom can be an exciting and memorable experience, but it can also be a daunting task when it comes to obtaining the necessary visa. As a South African citizen , securing a UK tourist visa requires careful planning and preparation. With so many requirements and steps involved, it can be overwhelming to navigate the application process on your own. That’s why we’ve created this step-by-step guide to help you secure your UK tourist visa from South Africa.

In this guide, Mrpocu.com will walk you through the entire process from start to finish, including the documents you’ll need to submit, the application procedure, and some tips to increase your chances of a successful visa application. Whether it’s for a holiday, business, or study purposes, our guide will provide you with the essential information you need to obtain a UK tourist visa hassle-free. So, let’s get started!

Table of Contents

Understanding The UK Tourist Visa

A UK tourist visa is a document that allows you to enter the United Kingdom for a temporary period of up to six months. It is also known as a Standard Visitor Visa. This visa is suitable for individuals who wish to travel to the UK for leisure, tourism, business, or medical treatment.

It is important to note that a UK tourist visa does not allow you to work or study in the UK. If you intend to do so, you will need to apply for a different type of visa. The UK tourist visa is valid for a single entry or multiple entries, depending on your application.

The UK tourist visa application process can take up to three weeks, so it is recommended to apply well in advance of your intended travel date. It is also important to ensure that you meet all the eligibility requirements before submitting your application to avoid any delays or rejections.

Eligibility Requirements For The UK Tourist Visa

To be eligible for a UK tourist visa, you must meet the following requirements:

1. Purpose of visit

You must be able to demonstrate that your visit is for leisure, tourism, business, or medical treatment. You should also be able to provide evidence of your itinerary and accommodation arrangements.

2. Financial capacity

You must be able to demonstrate that you have enough funds to cover the cost of your trip and return to South Africa. The amount required varies depending on the length of your visit and your accommodation arrangements.

3. Ties to South Africa

You must be able to demonstrate that you have strong ties to South Africa and that you will return to your home country at the end of your visit. This could include evidence of your employment, property ownership, family ties, or other commitments.

4. Immigration history

You must have a clean immigration history and not have any previous visa rejections or overstays in the UK or any other country.

Required Documents For The UK Tourist Visa Application

To apply for a UK tourist visa from South Africa, you will need to provide the following documents:

1. Valid passport

Your passport should be valid for at least six months from the date of your intended travel to the UK. It should also have at least one blank page for the visa.

2. Application form

You will need to complete an online application form on the UK government website . The form will require you to provide personal details, travel plans, and other information relevant to your application.

3. Photograph

You will need to provide a recent passport-sized photograph of yourself.

4. Proof of funds

You will need to provide evidence of your financial capacity to cover the cost of your trip and return to South Africa. This could include bank statements, payslips, or a letter from your employer.

5. Travel itinerary

You will need to provide a detailed itinerary of your travel plans, including accommodation arrangements and any activities you plan to undertake.

6. Accommodation details

You will need to provide evidence of your accommodation arrangements in the UK, such as hotel bookings or a letter of invitation from a friend or family member.

7. Proof of ties to South Africa

You will need to provide evidence of your ties to South Africa, such as employment contracts, property ownership, or family ties.

Step-By-Step Guide On How To Apply For The UK Tourist Visa From South Africa

1. Determine your eligibility: Before applying for a UK tourist visa, ensure that you meet all the eligibility requirements.

2. Complete the online application form: You will need to complete an online application form on the UK government website. Ensure that you provide accurate and truthful information.

3. Pay the application fee: The application fee for a UK tourist visa varies depending on the length of your visit and the type of visa you require. You can pay the fee online using a credit or debit card.

4. Book your biometric appointment: Once you have completed the application form and paid the fee, you will need to book a biometric appointment at a visa application centre in South Africa. During the appointment, your fingerprints and photograph will be taken.

5. Submit your application: After your biometric appointment, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents to the visa application centre.

6. Wait for a decision: The UK government will process your application and notify you of their decision. This can take up to three weeks.

Biometric Appointment And Visa Processing

As part of the UK tourist visa application process, you will need to attend a biometric appointment at a visa application centre in South Africa. During the appointment, your fingerprints and photograph will be taken.

After your biometric appointment, your application and supporting documents will be sent to the UK government for processing. The processing time can take up to three weeks, depending on the volume of applications.

Once a decision has been made on your application, you will be notified by email or post. If your application is successful, you will be issued a visa vignette in your passport, which will allow you to travel to the UK.

What To Do If Your UK Tourist Visa Application Is Rejected

If your UK tourist visa application is rejected, you will be provided with a reason for the rejection. You can either appeal the decision or reapply for the visa.

If you choose to appeal the decision, you will need to provide additional evidence to support your application. If you choose to reapply, ensure that you address the reason for the previous rejection and provide any additional information that may strengthen your application.

Tips For A Successful UK Tourist Visa Application

Here are some tips to increase your chances of a successful UK tourist visa application:

1. Apply well in advance

Ensure that you apply well in advance of your intended travel date to allow for any delays or rejections.

2. Provide accurate information

Ensure that you provide accurate and truthful information on your application form and supporting documents.

3. Demonstrate strong ties to South Africa

Provide evidence of your ties to South Africa, such as employment contracts, property ownership, or family ties.

4. Provide evidence of your financial capacity

Provide evidence of your financial capacity to cover the cost of your trip and return to South Africa.

5. Provide a detailed travel itinerary

Provide a detailed itinerary of your travel plans, including accommodation arrangements and any activities you plan to undertake.

Frequently Asked Questions About UK Tourist Visa

1. How long does it take to process a UK tourist visa application?

The processing time for a UK tourist visa application can take up to three weeks, depending on the volume of applications.

2. Can I work or study in the UK on a tourist visa?

No, a UK tourist visa does not allow you to work or study in the UK.

3. How much does a UK tourist visa cost?

The cost of a UK tourist visa varies depending on the length of your visit and the type of visa you require.

4. Can I appeal a rejected UK tourist visa application?

Yes, you can appeal a rejected UK tourist visa application or reapply for the visa.

Securing a UK tourist visa from South Africa can be a complex and time-consuming process, but with careful planning and preparation, it can be a hassle-free experience. By following our step-by-step guide and tips, you can increase your chances of a successful visa application and enjoy your trip to the United Kingdom without any stress or worries. Remember to apply well in advance, provide accurate information, and demonstrate strong ties to South Africa to ensure a smooth and successful application process.

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Apply for a visa

If you want to visit South Africa, you must produce a valid visa before you can enter into the country. A visa will be issued for a visit for tourism or business purposes and is valid for a period of 90 days.

Some countries are exempted from visa control, which means that citizens from those countries do not need a visa to visit South Africa.

Visas are not issued at South African ports of entry, and airline officials must insist on visas before allowing passengers to board. If you arrive without a visa, immigration officials are obliged to put you onto a flight back to your home country. Depending on your intended visit, you can apply for a Visitor’s Visa or a Transit Visa. Find out more about the:

• requirements for a visa
• types of visas
• countries exempt from South African visas

or contact the Department of Home Affairs .

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UK Standard Visitor Visa for South African citizens: Complete guide

South African citizens planning to visit the United Kingdom for tourism, business, or to visit family and friends, must apply for a UK Standard Visitor Visa first. This visa allows foreign citizens to stay in the UK for short stays.

Our comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about the UK visa application process, requirements, and tips for South Africans, to ensure a successful application!

Do South Africans need a UK Standard Visitor Visa?

South Africans wanting to visit the United Kingdom for tourism or visiting family and friends, must apply for a UK Standard Visitor Visa before they go.

What is the UK Standard Visitor Visa?

The UK Standard Visitor Visa is a temporary visa for visiting the United Kingdom for:

• Tourism and leisure
• Business opportunities: If you're a South African entrepreneur or professional, this visa allows you to attend business meetings and explore potential ventures in the UK. Please note that it doesn’t cover professionals a UK company pays as experts in their fields; they'll need to apply for a Permitted Paid Engagement visa.
• Visiting Family and friends
• Enroll in short courses: Visit the UK to enroll in short courses and conduct research related to your degree studies.
• Seek healthcare: The UK Standard Visitor Visa allows you to enter the UK to receive private medical treatment and consult with British doctors (extra requriements apply).
• Volunteer work: Participate in volunteer activities with registered charities for up to 30 days with this visa.
• Transit in the UK

The application process involves completing an online form and attending an appointment at a UK Visa Application Centre or British Embassy near you, for an interview and dropping of documentation for your application.

For information on temporary worker visa, skilled worker visa, and other UK visa types, consult the British High Commission in Pretoria .

Benefits of applying for a UK Standard Visitor Visa with us

The visa application process can be overwhelming, but fret not! We've got your back. By choosing our services, you'll enjoy the following perks:

Best chances of visa approval – Our iVisa Experts will guide you through the application process, increasing your chances of getting the visa approved.

Flexible form completion – Take your time filling out the visa application form, save your progress, and take breaks whenever needed. No rush!

Guaranteed appointment scheduling – Leave the appointment scheduling to us. We'll find the nearest location and available appointment date for you.

Expert agent support – Got questions or concerns? Our dedicated team is here to help you every step of the way.

Real-time order tracking – Keep an eye on your visa application status through your iVisa account.

How long can South African citizens stay in the UK with the Visitor Visa?

This is a Multiple Entry visa , allowing you to explore the wonders of the UK on multiple occasions.

• South African citizens holding the UK Standard Visitor Visa can stay in the UK for up to 180 days in Total .

How to apply for a UK Standard Visitor Visa in South Africa

There are a few different ways to apply for the Standard Visitor Visa.

Apply for your UK Visitor Visa through the government

Visit the official government website and follow the instructions. The process includes completing the application form, gathering and submitting supporting documents through the visa application partner (such as VFS), planning and attending an interview, submitting your biometrics, and picking up your passport.

Apply for your UK Visitor Visa through iVisa

Follow these simple steps to apply for a UK Standard Visitor Visa from South Africa with our assistance:

• Step 1: Provide your travel and basic information on our website or iVisa App . Double-check all the information to avoid delays in the process.

We'll cut down the application process into the most relevant questions, saving you time and effort.

• Step 2: Pay the processing fees and wait for our email with a complete guide on the next steps. In the meantime, we'll schedule an appointment for your interview on your behalf. Rest assured, we'll keep an eye out for the earliest dates!

Our experts will review your application and make sure all details on the application form match your passport and meet the government criteria.

• Step 3: Attend the visa appointment at the UK Embassy or Visa Application Center (VAC) to provide your biometric data and undergo the visa interview.

Then, sit back and wait for the visa outcome!

More information about the UK Standard Visitor Visa

If you still have questions about United Kingdom visas and other documents required for your adventure, contact us online chat or WhatsApp We’re ready to assist!

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• iVisa is NOT affiliated with any government agency. This site does not provide legal advice and we are not a law firm. None of our customer service representatives are lawyers and they also do not provide legal advice. We are a private, internet-based travel and immigration consultancy provider dedicated to helping individuals travel around the world. You may apply by yourself directly on the various government websites. The source of information: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/uk-visas-and-immigration

South Africa Visa » Requirements » Requirements for UK Citizens

South Africa Visa for UK Citizens

The majority of foreign passport holders are required to obtain a South Africa visa to travel to the country. A South Africa visa for UK citizens is not required for short periods of stay, but British passport holders need a South African visa for longer visits and certain travel purposes

A South Africa eVisa system has now been launched for 14 countries . The South Africa electronic visa is available through a simple online application which will only take a few minutes to complete.

The electronic visa is being implemented in order to expedite the application process to allow foreign citizens easier access to South Africa, eliminating the need to apply at a consulate or embassy.

A South Africa electronic visa for UK citizens is not currently available, and it is not yet known if British nationals will be added to the eVisa program in the future. At present, British passport holders who need a South Africa visa need to submit an embassy application.

Do I Need a Visa for South Africa from the UK?

At present, citizens of 28 countries can enter South Africa visa-free for up to 30 days. Passport holders of an additional 48 nationalities can visit South Africa visa-free for tourism or business for a maximum 90-day stay, including citizens of the United Kingdom.

Although a South Africa visa for UK citizens is not required for stays up to 90 days , British travelers will be required to obtain one of the South Africa visa types for longer visits and purposes other than tourism or business.

British nationals who possess specific professional skills that are in demand in the country are able to apply for a South Africa critical skills visa for UK citizens. This is available for different periods depending on the type of work to be undertaken.

Those who wish to apply for a South African work visa for UK citizens can do so at the embassy in London, or through a Visa Facilitation Services Center in South Africa.

Those wishing to stay for longer than 90 days for tourism or business will also need to apply for a South African visa for UK citizens from an embassy or consulate.

South Africa Visa Requirements for British Citizens

The South Africa visa requirements for British citizens depend on the type of visa the individual needs.

• A valid UK passport
• Completed application form for the relevant visa type
• Payment method to pay the visa fee
• Proof of sufficient funds to cover the stay in South Africa
• Proof of medical insurance cover
• Letter of invitation from an educational institute ( study visas )
• Police clearance certificate (study or work visas)
• Certificate from the Department of Labor ( work visas )

If the South Africa eVisa becomes available for UK citizens, this page will be updated with the requirements for the electronic visa.

How to Apply for South Africa Visa from the UK

As stated above, a South African eVisa for UK citizens is not currently available.

British nationals are not currently able to use an online application if they need a visa for South Africa. Instead, they must use the traditional embassy application method and need to:

• Make an appointment at the nearest South African embassy or consulate
• Complete a visa application
• Gather the supporting documents required for the type of visa
• Attend an in-person interview with the relevant documents
• Pay the visa fee to submit their application

Processing times for South African embassy visas can often be lengthy. Therefore, UK applicants are advised to begin the process of obtaining the visa far in advance of their intended date of arrival in South Africa.

Once the visa is approved, travelers will be able to visit the country using a copy of the South Africa Visa for UK citizens and their corresponding passport, which must be the same as that used for the application.

Depending on the type of visa issued, additional documentation may be requested at border entry points before the traveler is granted entry.

These may include proof of onward or return flights, or a certificate of vaccination if the traveler is arriving form a yellow fever country.

The South African Embassy in the UK

Although a South African tourist visa for UK citizens is not necessary for short stays, British nationals who require a travel document such as a work visa or a study visa will be required to apply at the South African embassy in London.

The South African Embassy in London

South Africa House,

Trafalgar Square, London,

Phone: +44 (0) 20 7451 7299

Fax: +44 (0) 20 7839 5674

It’s important to remember that a South Africa visa from the UK is not required for stays under 90 days , whether for business or tourism purposes.

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• Entering and staying in the UK
• Visas and entry clearance
• Visa applications

New digital visa application tool 'Access UK' launches in South Africa

Access UK allows its customers to enjoy as smooth a visa application process as possible.

Access UK now has added functionality to make the visa process simple, fast and smooth

Through Access UK, customers are now able to book their visa application centre appointment, scan and upload their supporting documentation from the comfort of their own home, and purchase any additional services which are intended to enhance their experience in one continuous journey.

Customers can continue to upload documents to support their application up until the day of their appointment. This exciting development means that the majority of customers no longer have to submit their original documentation, though customers will still need to provide their passport in order for a vignette to be placed, should they be granted a visa.

This service is being rolled out worldwide and is available now in South Africa, Lesotho and eSwatini.

Features of the new digital visa application service:

• the service is available on mobile devices, enabling application forms to be completed on smart phones or tablets, making it more convenient for the customer
• the application is often more concise and quicker to complete, as questions are only asked when they are relevant to a customer’s previous answers
• customers can review, edit and download their partially completed application at any point before submission, making it simpler to check, edit and update responses as required
• the application fee is displayed in the appropriate local currency, making it easier to understand the overall cost
• customers will now transition smoothly through the application process to booking their appointment at their chosen VAC to submit their biometrics, without having to visit multiple online sites; the vast majority of customers will be able to self-upload their supporting evidence, and customers will be able to easily select and pay for additional services to suit their needs

Access UK means visa customers can:

• make quicker visa applications using an intuitive online form
• use easy-to-follow checklists and steps which list the evidence required to make an application
• upload all required documentation themselves, up until the day of their appointment
• make changes to their application at any moment
• conveniently select a standard, priority or super-priority service (where available)
• and apply flexibly using any mobile device

Media enquiries

Isabel Potgieter

Spokesperson, British High Commission

Mobile: +27 (0)833911606

Email: [email protected]; [email protected]

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Ireland will consider terminating visa-free entry for South Africans. Image: Unsplash

Ireland considers terminating visa-free entry for SA passports

South Africans could lose visa-free entry to Ireland, the only country in Western Europe that offers eased entry for South African nationals.

Ireland is considering revoking its visa-free travel attangements with South Africa.

South African passport holders have eased entry to over 100 countries. However, this may change if Ireland excludes SA from its visa-abolition agreements.

Ultimately, this is bad news for South African passport holders, who stand to lose a visa-free destination .

IRELAND VISA-FREE TRAVEL

In 2009, the United Kingdom introduced visa-requirements for South African passport holders.

It cited raised safety issues resulting from the misuse of South African passports.

The Republic of Ireland, however, did not end its visa-free entry scheme for South Africa.

Nonetheless, the privilege might end soon if Ireland revokes the visa-free entry arrangement.

VISA-FREE ENTRY FOR SOUTH AFRICA

Schengenvisainfo reports that Ireland will discuss ending its visa-free travel scheme with South Africa.

Ireland’s ministers will discuss axing the arrangement so Ireland can tighten up immigration.

Ireland’s Department of Justice says 198 asylum seekers arrived in Ireland on South African passports this year.

ASYLUM SEEKERS ENTER IRELAND

The scrapping of visa-free travel for South Africans comes after alleged abuse of the arrangement by individuals entering Ireland, seeking protection. 

According to the Irish Times nationals of Zimbabwe and the Democratic Republic of Congo are using South African passports to enter the country.

IRELAND TO SCRAP VISA-FREE ENTRY SCHEME

Ireland will consider implementing visa requirements for South African nationals to reduce the number of people applying for protection and asylum.

Irish Justice Minister Helen McEntee stated that over 80% of international protection applicants entered the country through Northern Ireland.

This number represents over three percent of the country’s total asylum applicants in 2024.

CHOOSING IRELAND OVER UK

Meanwhile, The Guardian reports that the increase in asylum seekers heading to Ireland proves that Britain’s Rwanda plan is already working.

Britain’s prime minister says that the new Safety of Rwanda (Asylum and Immigration) Act is already deterring migrants.

Irish deputy prime minister, Micheál Martin, said the threat of deportation to Rwanda led to people coming to the Republic of Ireland.

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