UK visa guide for South Africans

For many South Africans, the United Kingdom represents a gateway to new opportunities — whether you’re planning a short visit, moving for work, joining family, or pursuing higher education. However, with constantly evolving visa rules, new requirements like the ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation), and rising costs, navigating the UK immigration system can feel overwhelming. This comprehensive UK visa guide is tailored specifically for South Africans. We break down your options clearly and offer practical advice to help you understand and prepare for your UK journey — whether you’re a first-time applicant or looking to settle long-term.

UK visa guide: Understanding the landscape

Do South Africans need a visa for the UK?

Yes — unless you’re settled in the UK or hold a British or Irish passport, you’ll need a visa or the newly introduced ETA to enter the country.

The UK rolled out the ETA scheme for South African passport holders on 8 January 2025. It’s mandatory for most short-term visits under 6 months, including tourism, business, and family visits. However, a full visa is still required if you’re planning to live, work, study, or get married in the UK.

Basic requirements for all applicants

Before applying for any type of UK visa, be prepared to meet some standard requirements:

Valid passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay, with two blank pages.
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): A mandatory fee for longer stays, covering NHS services (£1,035/year for adults; £776 for students).
Biometrics & BRP: You’ll need to provide fingerprints and a photo, and if your stay exceeds 6 months, you’ll receive a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP).
Tuberculosis (TB) Test: This test is required for stays over 6 months and must be taken at a UK-approved clinic.
Proof of Funds: Evidence that you can financially support yourself without needing public assistance.

Navigating these requirements isn’t always straightforward. The application process can be long and expensive, especially for families or students. That’s why preparation and reliable information are key.

Moving to the UK: Long-term visa options for South Africans

UK Ancestry Visa

If you have a grandparent who was born in the UK, you may qualify for this flexible visa.

Who’s eligible: South African citizens over 17, who are Commonwealth nationals, with documented proof of a UK-born grandparent.
Benefits: You can work without restriction, bring your family, and eventually apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years.
Costs: £637 visa fee + IHS.

It’s a popular route for young professionals with UK roots, particularly those looking to build a career or life in Britain.

Skilled Worker Visa

If you’ve received a job offer from a UK employer with a sponsorship licence, this is likely the route for you.

Eligibility: Confirmed job offer, minimum salary of £38,700 (or lower for nursing or teaching shortages), and English language proficiency.
Duration: Up to 5 years, extendable; leads to ILR.
Costs: £719 to £1,639 depending on duration, plus the IHS.

Tip: South Africans in high-demand fields — including healthcare, engineering, and IT — have a strong chance of approval, especially if applying through a licensed sponsor.

Family & Partner Visas

These visas allow you to join your partner or family members who are British citizens or hold permanent UK residency.

Requirements: Proof of a genuine relationship, minimum income of £29,000 (or adequate savings), and English language ability.
Duration: Initial stay of 2.5 years, renewable; ILR available after 5 years.
Costs: £1,963 if applying outside the UK, £1,258 if applying from within the UK.

These visas involve strict documentation checks, especially regarding finances and relationship legitimacy. Supporting evidence like joint bills, photos, and communication history can strengthen your case.

Innovator Founder & Start-Up Visas

Entrepreneurial South Africans looking to establish a UK-based business can apply under these categories.

Innovator Visa: For well-developed, scalable business ideas endorsed by an approved UK body. Requires £1,270 in maintenance funds and a solid business plan.
Start-Up Visa: This is for new entrepreneurs, often recent graduates, just beginning their journey.
Duration: 2 years (Start-Up), 3 years (Innovator), with a path to ILR for Innovator visa holders.
Costs: From £447 to £1,331 plus IHS.

Note: This route demands both a compelling idea and endorsement, so it’s ideal for those with a clear business vision and some startup experience.

Short-term travel: Visiting the UK as a South African

ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation)

Introduced in 2025, the ETA replaces the need for a visa for many short visits.

Cost: £16
Validity: 2 years or until your passport expires.
Application: Online or via the ETA app — must be submitted at least 48 hours before travel.

This option suits tourists, business visitors, and people visiting friends or family, provided you don’t plan to stay longer than 6 months.

Standard visitor visa

This is for those who don’t qualify for the ETA or need a more formal visitor visa.

Uses: Tourism, visiting family, short business trips.
Duration: Up to 6 months; can apply for longer validity (2, 5, or 10 years) if visiting often.
Cost: £115 for a single entry; £432–£1,225 for long-term multi-entry visas.

Applicants must show strong ties to South Africa and a clear intention to return, such as a job, home, or family.

Other short-term visas

Marriage Visitor Visa: This visa is for those planning to marry or register a civil partnership in the UK (£115).
Permitted Paid Engagement Visa: This visa is for professionals (speakers, artists, academics) invited to specific events (£115).
Transit Visas: DATV (£39) or Visitor in Transit (£115), depending on whether you leave the airport.

Studying in the UK

Student Visa

South Africans hoping to study full-time in the UK at a recognised university or college can apply under this category.

Requirements: A Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS), proof of English language skills, and enough money to pay tuition and living costs.
Cost: £490 plus IHS (£776/year).
Work Rights: Up to 20 hours/week during term time.

After graduation, you may be eligible for the Graduate Visa, which allows you to stay and work for up to 2 more years.

Short-Term Study Visa

Suitable for English language courses or short-term training (up to 11 months).

Cost: £200
Limitations: No work allowed, and no dependents may accompany you.

Child Student Visa

For school-age learners between 4 and 17 attending a UK independent (fee-paying) school. Parents may need to apply separately under a Parent of a Child Student visa if the child is under 12.

UK visa guide: Expert tips for South African applicants

Apply early: Start your application at least 3–6 months before your planned travel.
Use official channels: Apply via GOV.UK or approved centres like TLScontact and VFS Global. Avoid unofficial agents.
Keep a checklist: Required documents vary, but typically include a passport, a visa application form, photos, financial evidence, and a TB test certificate (if applicable).
Budget wisely: Visa costs, IHS fees, and courier charges add up — plan for additional expenses, especially if travelling as a family.
Explore scholarships: Students should consider options like the Chevening Scholarship or university-specific financial aid.
Connect with the community: South African expat groups on Facebook or Meetup can offer guidance and emotional support.
Stay compliant: Always track visa expiration dates and notify the UK Home Office of major life changes, such as address updates or relationship status.

Practical examples of visa applications and how to switch up your options

Dave, a nurse from Durban, initially arrived on an ETA but later transitioned to a Skilled Worker Visa. She now works in the NHS and plans to apply for ILR after five years.
Samantha, a Cape Town student, is studying a degree in London on a Student Visa. She works part-time and is considering the Graduate Visa route after graduation.
Nick, a retiree, used the ETA system to visit his children in Manchester for three months before returning to South Africa.

Conclusion: Be prepared, stay informed

The UK visa process can be daunting, but understanding your options — and planning accordingly — makes all the difference. Whether staying for a week or settling down for good, the correct visa opens doors to opportunity.

Use official resources, stay ahead of deadlines, and lean on community support. When in doubt, seek qualified immigration advice.

Helpful resources for South Africans

Disclaimer: All information contained in this article is relevant and up to date as of May 2025. Please verify visa-specific details before initiating the application process, as procedures and requirements are subject to change.

UK visa guide: Understanding the landscape