How to Apply for UK Tourist Visa? Step-by-Step Guide
If you want to leave South Africa to live, work, study, or even visit the UK, you will require a UK visa. Many types of UK visas are available, but the application process can be complex.
You must fill in your application form with several details based on why you wish to enter the UK. You must meet many requirements and submit forms and evidence to the UK Home Office.
How to Apply for UK Tourist Visa? Detailed Steps
If you are a South African citizen planning a trip to the United Kingdom, you may need to apply for a UK tourist visa. This visa will allow you to enter the United Kingdom and stay up to six months. Here are the steps you need to take to apply for your UK tourist visa:
1. Determine if You Need a Visa:
Before you start the application process, you should determine if you need a visa. All South Africans planning to travel to the UK for more than six months must apply for a visa.
2. Get the Required Documents
You must have certain documents to apply for a UK tourist visa. These include a valid passport,
- two passport-sized photographs,
- a copy of your travel itinerary,
- proof of accommodation,
- proof of financial stability,
- and a letter of invitation if you are visiting a family member or friend in the UK.
3. Complete the Application Form
Once you have all the required documents, you must complete the UK tourist visa application form. This form can be found on the UK Government website and must be filled out in English.
4. Pay the Application Fee
The UK tourist visa application fee is £95 or ZAR2,054. This fee should be paid online with a credit or debit card.
5. Submit Your Application
Once you have completed the form and paid the fee, you must submit your application online. You will need to provide supporting documents and answer questions about your trip.
6. Wait for Your Visa
After you have submitted your application, it may take up to three weeks for a decision to be made. Once you receive your visa, you can travel to the UK for up to six months.
Following these steps, you can easily apply for your UK tourist visa and begin your travels to the UK. Are there any doubts about how to apply for a UK tourist visa?
Requirements for UK visa for South African citizens
Here are the requirements for a UK visa for South African citizens:
Get a valid passport.
It would be best if you had a valid passport from South Africa for at least three months beyond the date you intend to leave the UK.
Complete the visa application form.
You must complete the online visa application form, which includes providing information about your travel plans and your records.
Proof of funds.
You will need to provide evidence of sufficient funds to cover your stay in the UK, which can be done by providing bank statements or pay slips.
Show proof of accommodation.
You must provide evidence of where you will be staying in the UK, such as a hotel booking or a letter of invitation from a host in the UK.
Provide supporting documents.
Depending on the purpose of your visit, you may need to provide additional documents, such as an invitation letter, a business plan, or a letter from an employer.
Biometrics and appointments with VFS
Sign in if you have made an appointment at a Visa Application Center and need to upload documents, change or cancel the appointment, or upload documents.
If you haven’t already, go to the UK Visas and Immigration (GOV.UK) website to find out what kind of visa you should apply for and what documents you will need.
After submitting your visa application on GOV.UK and paying the required fee, you will be sent to the VFS Global website to schedule a visit to a Visa Application Center where your biometric data (fingerprints and a photo) will be collected.
Once you begin the visa registration process, you have approximately to 240 days to schedule an appointment, provide biometrics, and complete the application.
Until the time of the appointment, you can make changes to your biometric screening. Your appointment can be rescheduled more than once if necessary.
If you can’t make a biometric appointment within 240 days but still want to apply for a visa, you need to contact UKVI.
There will be updated regulations for the risky trip policy coming out later this year. Your request will be put on hold until the new regulations are made clear if you feel it would be risky to see a VAC. You can speed up the review of your request by specifying that you require a response within a short period of time, and the evidence you offer will be taken into account. We’ll get in touch with you to discuss the available choices if your inquiry is time-sensitive.
Clear payment.
You must pay the visa application fee before submitting your application.
How Can We Be of Your Service?
Our team of experienced immigration consultants is here to provide the guidance and advice you need when applying for a UK tourist visa. We can help you with the following:
- Understand the UK visa requirements for South African citizens.
- Complete the visa application form correctly.
- Provide you with the necessary supporting documents.
- Advise you on the best way to present your visa application.
- Ensure that your visa application has the best chance of success.
We understand that the visa application process can be confusing and stressful, but with our help and guidance, you can be sure that your application will be submitted correctly and on time.
FAQs: How to Apply for UK Tourist Visa?
How to track UK visa application in South Africa?
Check whether this service is available at the Visa Application Centre you are visiting. You can also track your visa application status online. Use the Reference Number present on the invoice/receipt issued by the Visa Application Centre and your last name to access this service.
Do I need a visa for London from South Africa?
South African passport holders need a visa to visit the UK. Fortunately, the entire UK visa application process is explained in this detailed guide. You need to first apply online and continue your visa application at your nearest UK visa application center. Processing time can take up to 3 weeks.
The Ending Note
The most important thing to remember is to have all the required documents, such as a valid passport, proof of sufficient funds and proof of travel insurance, as well as any other documents requested by the visa office.
Additionally, it is important to review the visa requirements carefully and ensure that all information is accurate. By preparing for the application process and following the instructions carefully, you will increase your chances of a successful application.
If you still need clarification, contact us to get our best services.
