If you want to leave South Africa to live, work, study or even visit the UK, you need a UK visa. There are many types of UK visas, but the application process can be complicated. You will have to meet a number of requirements and submit forms and evidence to the UK Home Office. The attorneys can assist you with any UK visa application.

How to submit my UK visa application in South Africa

Most UK visas can be applied for online through the UK government website. You can also apply on behalf of a lawyer. To begin the visa application process, you must complete and submit an application form and pay the applicable fees. You will also need to submit a portfolio of documents as proof of your application.

The documents you need to submit depend on the visa you are applying for. However, in general, South African citizens are required to provide the following documents:

• Proof of identification such as a passport or other valid form of ID which must have a minimum of one blank page
• Two passport-sized photographs
• Evidence that you can financially support yourself and any members of your family you may bring with you whilst in the UK
• Proof you’ve paid the visa fees
• A copy of your Tuberculosis test results

It’s important to note that if your documents are not written in English then you will need to get them translated before submitting them.

When to apply for UK Visa in South Africa

When you can apply depends on your current country of residence. Generally, you can apply for a visa up to three months before you plan to stay in the UK. However, if you have already left South Africa and are in the UK, this may be different.

If you are applying for your first visa to travel to the UK from South Africa, you will need to obtain your visa before you enter the UK. If you are already living in the UK and are applying for another visa to stay here, you should apply before your current visa expires.

The amount of time it takes to receive a decision on your application depends on the visa you are applying for. According to UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), the UK visa processing time is he 3 to 12 weeks.

If your application requires more information before you can make a decision, wait times may be longer and you may be required to submit additional documentation to support your application.

UKVI also offers a priority service that allows us to make a quick decision after your application has been submitted. You will have to pay extra for this.