UK Visa information for Saffas travelling to Britain
Since the 1st July 2009 South African nationals are required to have a valid UK visa for entry to the UK for any purpose. In fact, South Africans will even require a transit visa to travel through a UK airport en route to another destination.
The cost of a Visa starts from £68 (about R 700) and increases from there depending on the duration of your stay and the purpose of your visit. Clearly, it can add a substantial amount to the overall cost of your trip overseas.
South Africans planning on visiting the UK should also plan ahead since it can take two weeks or more for the visa application process once the visa application and required documentation is submitted. In some cases you may be required to attend an interview which will definitely lengthen the process.
Useful Links:
We have found you some useful resources on the Web to determine whether you need a UK visa and, if so, where to go and what to do.
Firstly, this useful tool will help you determine whether you need a UK tourist visa or something similar. If you do need a British visa then this page has all the information on how to apply.
If you are based in South Africa and looking for visas for the UK then there are offices in each of the major cities where you can apply.
Tips for when you are travelling:
If you have a valid passport and UK visa, you will normally be granted entry to the UK. When you arrive in Britain the visa will tell the UK immigration official the reason you are travelling to Britain, how long you are allowed to stay and the last day you are allowed entry.
UK immigration officials are normally friendly but are well trained and serious about their job. There are strict rules and procedures which they need to follow so be polite and answer all questions clearly and you should not have a problem!
Other useful websites:
The official Brisith Visitor website
The British High Commission in Pretoria
The official UK Visa site of the British Home Office
Once you have secured your UK Visa then book your London hotel or UK accommodation with us. Search over 5,000 hotels in London and the UK here.
