United Kingdom
South Africa
South Africa visa for British citizens
Entry requirement
South Africa admits British citizens without a visa for stays of up to 90 days.
- Maximum stay
- 90 days
- Where to apply
- Nothing to apply for in advance
Checked 7 November 2026 · Passport Index · Confirm at southafricahouse.com
For longer stays: study, work and residence
South African citizens travelling to the United Kingdom
South AfricaUnited Kingdom Visa required United Kingdom visa for citizens of South Africa
Travel advice for South Africa
- US State Department Level 2: Exercise increased caution
- UK Foreign Office (FCDO) No advice against travel
- German Foreign Office No travel warning
What the US, British and German foreign ministries tell their own citizens about travelling there, in each ministry’s own terms.
British citizens planning a trip to South Africa can compare how foreign ministries rate it: the US State Department rates South Africa at Level 2, exercise increased caution (updated 26 May 2025), the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office does not advise against travel to South Africa (updated 5 November 2026) and the German Foreign Office has no travel warning for South Africa (updated 28 October 2026).
Good to know
How long British citizens can stay in South Africa
British citizens may stay in South Africa for up to 90 days. The stay granted is recorded on entry to South Africa.
South Africa’s neighbours for British citizens
Eswatini, Mozambique, Botswana and Lesotho admit British citizens visa-free.
South African citizens travelling to the United Kingdom
The United Kingdom requires South African citizens to hold a visa issued in advance.
Frequently asked questions
Do British citizens need a visa for South Africa?
South Africa admits British citizens without a visa for stays of up to 90 days.
How long can British citizens stay in South Africa?
British citizens can stay in South Africa for up to 90 days.
Do South African citizens need a visa for the United Kingdom?
The United Kingdom requires South African citizens to hold a visa issued in advance.
Can British citizens enter South Africa visa-free?
Yes, British citizens can enter South Africa without a visa and stay for up to 90 days.
Visa data: Passport Index via passport-index-data, as of 7 November 2026. Rules change, sometimes overnight. Confirm with the embassy or the official government portal before you book.