UK ETA South Africa 2026
Visa RequiredSouth Africa citizens are not eligible for the UK ETA program and must apply for a standard UK visa to visit the United Kingdom.
⚠️ Beware of Scams!
The official UK ETA costs only £16 when applied through GOV.UK. Many unofficial websites charge £50-150 or more. Always apply through the official government website.
✈️ Flights from South Africa to UK
Direct flights connect South Africa to major UK airports:
British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, South African Airways
11-12 hours
- Johannesburg → London Heathrow
- Cape Town → London
🏰 Popular UK Destinations
Top destinations for South Africa visitors in the UK:
450,000 visitors per year from South Africa
🏛️ UK Embassy & Consulates
British diplomatic missions in South Africa:
British Embassy Pretoria
Address: 255 Hill Street, Arcadia
Phone: +27 12 421 7500
Opening Hours: Mon-Fri: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Consulates: Cape Town, Johannesburg
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the UK ETA take to process?
Most UK ETA applications are processed within 3 working days. However, some applications may take longer if additional checks are required. We recommend applying at least 1 week before your planned travel date.
How much does the UK ETA cost?
The official UK ETA costs £16 when applied through the GOV.UK website. Be cautious of third-party websites that may charge significantly more for the same service.
How long is the UK ETA valid?
The UK ETA is valid for 2 years from the date of issue, or until your passport expires – whichever comes first. During this time, you can make unlimited trips to the UK.
How long can I stay in the UK with an ETA?
With a UK ETA, you can stay for up to 6 months per visit. This applies to tourism, visiting family and friends, business meetings, and short-term study courses.
Do I need an ETA to transit through the UK?
Yes, from 2025 you need a UK ETA even if you're only transiting through a UK airport without passing through immigration (airside transit). This is a new requirement.