Last Updated: 16 September 2026
There is no separate UK tourist visa. South Africans going on holiday use the Standard Visitor visa explained on UK Visa South Africa. This page covers what matters for a holiday application.
Tell us your holiday dates and who is travelling.
Get Visa AssistanceWhat a Holiday Application Should Show
- A realistic trip plan. Dates, where you will stay and roughly what you will do.
- Funds that match the plan. A two-week London trip and a weekend visit need different evidence.
- A reason to return. Approved leave, a business you run, studies or family commitments.
- Who is paying. If a UK relative is covering costs, include their letter and evidence.
Travelling With Children
Each child needs their own visa application and fee. Include birth certificates and, where one parent is not travelling, a consent letter. For South African departure rules, carry the documents Home Affairs recommends for minors.
Holiday Visa Costs
| Cost item | Amount | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Visitor visa (6 months) | £135 (approx. R2,940) | Official Home Office fee |
| Visa assistance | R1,500 - R4,500 per applicant | Optional assistance fee |
| Family of four, fees only | £540 (approx. R11,770) | Official fees |
Fees may change and should be confirmed with the relevant government, embassy, consulate or authorised visa application provider before applying. Rand amounts are approximate conversions and assistance fees are indicative market ranges, not quotations.
When to Apply
You can apply up to 3 months before travel. For December and July school holidays, apply as early as the window allows. See UK visa processing time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a UK tourist visa for South Africans?
Holidays use the Standard Visitor visa. There is no separate tourist visa.
Do children need their own UK visa?
Yes. Each child applies separately and pays the fee.
Can I visit Ireland on a UK tourist visa?
Not by default. South Africans need a separate Ireland visa unless a current scheme applies.
Use Visa Application to get more than one quote before you pay anyone to help with a UK tourist visa application.
Related Pages
Visa approval is solely at the discretion of the relevant immigration authority. Visa Application is not a government department, embassy, consulate or visa application centre, and no provider can guarantee approval, appointment availability or processing time.
Tell us where you are travelling and when, and compare visa assistance quotes from independent providers.
Get 5 QuotesGet UK Tourist Visa South Africa Quotes
Tell us your destination, travel purpose, travel date and number of applicants, and providers will quote you directly.
Free to use, no obligation. Your request goes to LEADERR APPROVED visa assistance providers, who quote you directly.
Client Reviews
Powered by leaderr
