This article will guide you through the process of applying for a UK visa from South Africa in six simple steps:
STEP 1: Initiating your UK visa application
STEP 2: Completing an online UK visa application
STEP 3: Determining UK visa fees
STEP 4: Scheduling an appointment at a visa application centre for biometric data submission
STEP 5: Understanding the UK visa processing time
STEP 6: Organizing your travel to the UK
This guide is provided by Gareth Richards, the founder and CEO of Help with my visa! who has established and managed UK visa application centres in 89 different countries, including South Africa.
Let’s start the process.
STEP 1: Initiating your UK visa application
Before you even start your UK visa application, there are several steps you need to take. The first, and often overlooked, is defining your purpose of travel. Knowing why you are applying for a UK visa will guide the entire application process. After determining your purpose, you need to figure out which UK visa suits you best.
We offer three resources to help you decide on the right UK visa:
- Read our blog post on “What UK visa do I need?” for a comprehensive overview of every type of UK visa.
- Use the Help with my visa! Signposting Tool to help you navigate the visa application preparation process.
- Schedule a Visa Consultation with a professional immigration advisor who will provide clear instructions on how to proceed.
Once you’ve decided on the UK visa type, you’ll need to gather your supporting documents and ensure your passport is valid for travel. Depending on the type of visa you’re applying for, you might also need to take a Tuberculosis (TB) test. When all your supporting documents are ready, you can proceed to the online UK visa application.
STEP 2: Completing an online UK visa application
Almost all UK visa applications are now made online. Make sure you’ve gathered and organized all your supporting documents and checked your passport’s validity before you start filling out the form. It’s crucial to know the type of UK visa you’re applying for as the information requested varies depending on the visa type. Applying for the wrong visa type significantly increases the risk of refusal.
The online application is a series of questions that you’ll be asked to answer. This process typically takes at least an hour. Once completed, you’ll get a final chance to review and amend any information. Ensure everything is correct before confirming as you won’t be able to make any changes afterward. On confirmation, your application form will be sent directly to UKVI.
STEP 3: Determining UK visa fees
The fees for your UK visa application depend on several factors, including the type of visa you’re applying for. All fees are paid online, so you’ll need to check with your bank or card issuer to ensure you can make international payments in GBP. If you don’t have a suitable payment method, consider asking a trusted friend or family member to pay for you, buy a pre-payment credit card authorized for international and foreign currency payments, or use a UK-based immigration advisor.
UKVI frequently updates the UK visa fees online. You may also need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) if your visa’s duration is over six months and you intend to reside in the UK. The IHS charge is £624 per year and is applied pro rata for the duration of your visa. Additionally, UKVI offers Priority Visa and Super Priority Visa services to expedite the decision time.
STEP 4: Scheduling an appointment at a visa application centre (continued)
The biometric data includes a scan of your fingerprints and a digital photograph of your face. This information will be used to verify your identity throughout your visa process and at UK immigration control.
The UK visa application centres in South Africa are located in Pretoria, Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town, and Port Elizabeth. You should choose the centre that is most convenient for you.
At the end of your appointment, you’ll need to leave your passport and supporting documents with the visa application centre. You may also have the opportunity to purchase additional services, such as SMS updates on your visa application status or courier delivery of your passport back to you once your application has been decided.
STEP 5: Understanding the UK visa processing time
The standard processing time for a UK visa application from South Africa is generally up to 15 working days after your biometric appointment. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, applications may take longer.
You can also opt for the Priority Visa service, which aims to process your application within 5 working days, or the Super Priority Visa service, which aims for a next-working-day decision. These services are available at an additional cost and are subject to availability.
Keep in mind that these are target processing times, and actual processing may vary. Complex cases may require additional time for processing.
STEP 6: Organizing your travel to the UK
Once you’ve received your visa, you’re ready to start organizing your travel to the UK. This includes booking your flights, organizing your accommodation, and making any necessary arrangements related to your stay. Remember, your visa will have a ‘valid from’ date, which is the earliest date you can use this visa to travel to the UK.
Be sure to check the conditions of your visa, such as how long you’re allowed to stay in the UK and any restrictions on work or study, and ensure you comply with these during your visit.
With these steps, you are well-equipped to apply for a UK visa from South Africa. Don’t hesitate to contact Help with my visa! if you need any assistance along the way. Safe travels!