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.

Apply now

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?

Yes.

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.

uk park view

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!