QuickTravelTools Do I need a visa for the United Kingdom with a South African passport?
You need a visa for the United Kingdom. Apply before you travel.
Rule verified by QuickTravelTools on October 10, 2026.
Visa rules for all 199 passports: the United Kingdom visa hub.
What you need
- Passport: should be valid at least 6 months after your trip ends.
- Fee: 135 GBP, Standard Visitor visa, up to 6 months
Source: UK Home Office (GOV.UK). - Processing time: 3 weeks
Source: UK Home Office (GOV.UK). - Apply: Start the official UK ETA application, GOV.UK (Home Office)
- Apply: Start the official Standard Visitor visa application, GOV.UK (Home Office)
Official sources
- US passport holders can apply for an ETA now; an ETA allows travel to the UK, Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man to visit for up to 6 months (UK Home Office (GOV.UK), verified October 5, 2026)
- US citizens traveling to the UK for short visits, tourism, or business need an ETA before travel (in force since Jan 8, 2025); other nationalities that need a visa continue to need one (U.S. Embassy and Consulates in the United Kingdom (U.S. Department of State), verified October 5, 2026)
- GOV.UK's official 'Check if you need a UK visa' tool: enter any nationality to see the visa/ETA requirement. (Loaded live 2026-10-06.) (UK Home Office (GOV.UK), verified October 6, 2026)
the United Kingdom at a glance
| Region | Europe |
|---|---|
| Everyday prices | 82 on our price index (US = 100) |
| Power | Type G/D/M sockets, 230/400 V, 50 Hz |
On cost, the United Kingdom is mid-priced for travelers: everyday prices sit at about 82 on a global index where the United States is 100. See how the United Kingdom compares to 179 countries.
On power, you are in luck: both South African outlets and the United Kingdom's use Type M, so many of your chargers should fit as-is. Full plug and voltage guide for the United Kingdom.
Good to know about the United Kingdom
- U.S. passport holders can use the ePassport gates on arrival in the UK, which is usually faster than the officer line. (U.S. Embassy in the United Kingdom)
- Bringing more than £10,000 in cash? Check the UK rules on bringing cash into the country before you travel. (GOV.UK)
- You can declare goods to UK customs online up to 5 days before you arrive, instead of doing it at the airport. (GOV.UK)
Common questions
Do South African citizens need a visa for the United Kingdom?
Yes. You need a visa for the United Kingdom. Apply before you travel.
How long can a South African passport holder stay in the United Kingdom?
The permitted stay depends on the visa or authorisation issued. Check the official immigration site before booking.
Is the visa information on this page official?
No. This is a summary compiled from official government sources and verified by QuickTravelTools, and it can lag rule changes. Always confirm with the United Kingdom's embassy or official immigration portal before you travel.
Nearby destinations for South African passport holders
Sorted by distance from the United Kingdom, useful if your trip covers more than one country.