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United Kingdom visa for South African citizens
South Africa 
United Kingdom South Africa passport holders need to obtain a visa from an embassy, consulate or visa centre before travelling to the United Kingdom.
Yes, a visa is required
- Entry requirement
- Visa required
- Maximum stay
- Set by the visa
- Apply before travel
- Yes
- Last updated
- February 2026
How to apply
Checked November 2026⚠️ GOV.UK warns that other websites imitate government services and may charge more than the official GBP 20 fee; apply only on gov.uk or the official UK ETA app. Use only the official links below.
Standard Visitor visa
- Fee
- GBP 135 for up to 6 months (long-term visas cost more)
- Processing
- Apply online before travel, no earlier than 3 months ahead; biometrics at a visa application centre
At the border
- Passport must be valid for the whole length of the stay.
- Nationals who do not need a visa must hold an ETA before travelling, including when transiting through UK passport control.
- Be ready to show that you will leave at the end of the visit, can support yourself, and can pay for your return or onward travel.
- Visitors can usually stay up to 6 months per visit; an ETA does not guarantee entry.
- British and Irish citizens (including dual nationals) do not need an ETA but must travel on a British passport or a Certificate of Entitlement.
Recent changes
- April 2025: ETA fee rose from GBP 10 to GBP 16 (9 April 2025).
- February 2026: ETA enforcement began on 25 February 2026; airlines can deny boarding to eligible visitors without an ETA or other valid permission.
- April 2026: ETA fee rose from GBP 16 to GBP 20 (8 April 2026).
Official source: GOV.UK - UK Visas and Immigration (Home Office) · Not yet confirmed officially: consularVisa.processing: typical decision time (often quoted as about 3 weeks) not stated on the page read
What South Africa passport holders need to do
- Find the embassy, consulate or visa application centre that covers where you live.
- Complete the application form and gather your documents: passport, photos, itinerary, proof of funds and accommodation.
- Book an appointment, pay the fee and give biometrics if they are required.
- Wait for the decision before you book non-refundable travel.
South Africa is one of 109 passports in the “visa required” group for the United Kingdom. See the full United Kingdom visa requirements for every passport.
Easier alternatives in Europe for South Africa passport holders
The United Kingdom is one of 71 destinations in the “visa required” group for the South Africa passport, which ranks #43 worldwide with a mobility score of 98. Of 46 destinations in Europe, 1 need no visa arranged in advance; the easiest are listed below.
| Destination | Requirement | Max stay |
|---|---|---|
 Russia | Visa-free | 90 days |
| United Kingdom | Visa required | – |
Frequently asked questions
Do South African citizens need a visa for the United Kingdom?
South Africa passport holders need to obtain a visa from an embassy, consulate or visa centre before travelling to the United Kingdom.
Can South African citizens get a visa on arrival in the United Kingdom?
No. South Africa passport holders must obtain a visa before travelling to the United Kingdom.
Do United Kingdom citizens need a visa for South Africa?
United Kingdom passport holders can enter South Africa without a visa for up to 90 days.
United Kingdom visa requirements for other passports
Data last updated February 2026. This page covers short visits such as tourism. Rules can change at short notice and differ for work, study or long stays. Confirm with the embassy or official immigration website of the United Kingdom before you book.