UK Visa Fees to Increase from April 2026
Travelling to the United Kingdom is set to become more expensive, as the UK government has confirmed a broad increase in visa fees from 8 April 2026. The changes will affect a range of visa categories, including short term visits, long term stays, and transit requirements.
For many South Africans, the most noticeable impact will be on standard visitor visas. The six month visa, commonly used for tourism, will increase from £127 to £135. While the difference may appear modest, the cost becomes more significant when converted to rand, particularly for families or frequent travellers.
Longer term visas will also see notable increases. The two year visa will rise to £506, the five year option to £903, and the 10 year visa to £1,128.
Additional costs are also being introduced for transit and travel authorisation. Transit visas will become more expensive, while the UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation will increase from £16 to £20, adding to the overall cost of travel.
The fee adjustments extend beyond visitor visas, with work, study and other visa categories also set to increase, depending on the specific application type.
For South African travellers, timing will be key. Those planning trips to the UK may benefit from applying before 8 April to avoid higher fees. After that date, all new applications will be subject to the revised pricing structure.
The changes come at a time when exchange rates are already placing pressure on international travel budgets, making overseas trips more costly for many.
In a positive development for travel between the UK and South Africa, British Airways has announced plans to expand its long haul network. The airline will introduce a third daily flight between London Heathrow and Cape Town from December 2026, in response to growing demand.
The additional service forms part of a broader strategy to increase long haul capacity, offering travellers more options despite rising travel costs.