Traveling through London on your way to another destination? If you’re a South African passport holder, it’s important to know whether you need a transit visa when passing through the United Kingdom. This guide provides clear, expert information on the UK’s transit visa requirements for South Africans, including exceptions, types of visas, how to apply, and what to avoid.
Transit Visa Requirement
If you’re a South African citizen, you generally need a UK transit visa when passing through London, even if you’re not planning to leave the airport. The United Kingdom has specific visa rules for transit passengers, and these rules apply regardless of the length of your layover.
Many travelers assume that staying inside the airport exempts them from visa requirements, but that’s not always true in the UK. The UK government distinguishes between different types of transit — and whether or not you need to go through UK border control matters.
Types of Transit Visas for the UK
South African travelers may need one of two types of transit visas, depending on their journey:
1. Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV)
This visa is for travelers who do not pass through UK border control and stay within the airport’s international transit area.
You need a DATV if:
Your layover is at a UK airport like Heathrow or Gatwick.
You remain airside (inside the airport) and do not collect luggage or change terminals that require exiting.
Your next flight is on the same booking and departs within 24 hours.
This visa is ideal if you are simply changing planes and your itinerary doesn’t involve entering the UK.
2. Visitor in Transit Visa
This visa is required if you do pass through UK border control, for example:
If you need to collect checked luggage.
If you’re switching to a connecting flight that requires you to go landside.
If you’re changing airports in London (e.g., from Heathrow to Gatwick).
If your next flight is over 24 hours away, but you’ll leave within 48 hours.
In such cases, you must apply for a Visitor in Transit visa rather than a DATV.
Exceptions and Visa-Free Transit
There are certain scenarios where South Africans do not need a UK transit visa. These are known as visa exemptions and apply to travelers who meet specific conditions.
You might not need a UK transit visa if you:
Hold a valid visa for one of these countries:
- United States
- Canada
- Australia
- New Zealand
Hold a residence permit for one of the above countries or for:
The European Union (EU)
Switzerland
The European Economic Area (EEA)
Hold a valid common format Category D visa for a Schengen country (for long stays).
Have a UK visa or a UK residence permit.
However, even with these exemptions, you must meet the Airside Transit Exemption Rules, including:
Arriving and departing by air.
Having a confirmed onward flight departing the same day or before midnight the next day.
Holding the correct documents (visa or residence permit) for the destination country.
It’s crucial to check your exact situation on the UK government’s visa checker tool to avoid problems.
Applying for a UK Transit Visa
If you do need a visa, the application process is fairly straightforward — but you’ll need to prepare carefully.
How to Apply
Visit the official UK government website
Complete the online application for either:
Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV)
Visitor in Transit Visa
Book an appointment at a UK Visa Application Centre in South Africa.
Submit biometric information (fingerprints and photo).
Provide supporting documents.
Documents Required
A valid South African passport (with at least 6 months’ validity).
Proof of onward travel (confirmed airline ticket).
Visa or residence permit for your final destination (if required).
Hotel booking or letter from a sponsor, if you’re staying less than 48 hours and using a Visitor in Transit visa.
Processing Time and Fees
Transit visa applications usually take about 3 weeks to process from the date of your biometric appointment. However, it’s a good idea to apply as early as possible — delays can happen, especially during peak travel seasons.
Fees
Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV): £35
Visitor in Transit Visa: £64
Additional service fees may apply if you use a visa application centre in South Africa or request priority processing.
Layover and Transit Rules in the UK
The UK has strict rules about how layovers and transits are handled:
Airside Transit
- You stay inside the international terminal.
- You do not pass through border control.
- You need a DATV unless you qualify for visa-free transit.
Landside Transit
You pass through border control to either:
- Change terminals
- Change airports
- Wait more than 24 hours between flights
- You need a Visitor in Transit visa.
It’s vital to know which type of transit applies to your journey. Check with your airline or travel agent if you’re unsure.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some of the most common errors travelers make when applying for a UK transit visa:
- Applying for the wrong visa type (DATV vs. Visitor in Transit).
- Not checking exemptions: some travelers qualify for visa-free transit and don’t realize it.
- Forgetting supporting documents, like a visa for the destination country.
- Booking flights too far apart, resulting in visa complications.
- Incorrect or missing information on the visa application form.
Making these mistakes can delay your visa — or worse, cause you to be denied boarding at your point of departure.
Where to Apply for a UK Transit Visa
All applications must be submitted online through the UK Home Office portal. Visit:
https://www.gov.uk/transit-visa
You will then be directed to create an account and begin your application. Once completed, you’ll need to attend a visa appointment at a UK Visa Application Centre, such as those located in:
- Johannesburg
- Pretoria
- Cape Town
- Durban
Be sure to bring your passport, printed application, appointment confirmation, and supporting documents.
Entry and Border Control in the UK
Having a valid visa does not guarantee entry into the UK. UK Border Force officers have the authority to deny entry if:
Your documents are incomplete.
They believe your intentions differ from what’s stated in your visa.
There is suspicion of immigration risk or fraudulent activity.
To reduce the risk of problems, always travel with printed copies of:
- Your visa
- Flight itinerary
- Final destination visa or permit
- Accommodation details, if applicable
Conclusion
Yes, most South African passport holders do need a transit visa for London.
There are two types of transit visas — DATV and Visitor in Transit — depending on whether you pass through border control.
Exceptions exist, but only if you hold valid visas or residence permits for specific countries.
Apply online through the UK government website, and prepare your documents carefully.
Always check for official updates before you travel.
By understanding and preparing for the UK’s transit visa requirements, South African travelers can avoid unnecessary delays and enjoy smoother layovers on their way to exciting destinations around the world.
