uk travel visa for south africa

UK visa applications for South Africans: Step-by-step guide

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Our step-by-step guide contains all the information you need to know about applying for a UK visa if you're from South Africa. From choosing your visa, to getting your documents, to waiting periods and visa fees, learn all the UK visa application requirements.

Sep 7, 2022 by Telerik.Sitefinity.DynamicTypes.Model.SableTeamMembers.Member

UK visa application guide contents

Step 1: choose your visa.

• Step 2: Passport
• Step 3: Documents
• Step 4: Check visa fees
• Step 5: Apply
• Step 6: Appointments
• Step 7: Waiting period

Step 8: Before you leave

Step 9: enjoy the uk.

There are a host of UK visas that you can apply for. Make sure you choose the right one for your intent. Whether you want to visit, work or study in the UK, there’s a visa for you.

• Visitor visa – For people visiting or studying for 6 months or less
• Skilled Worker visa – For those who are wanting to work in the UK for the long-term
• Global Business Mobility route – A group of five business visas for those looking to move their business to the UK
• Business , Innovator  and Start-up visas  – For those wanting to start a new business in the UK
• Study visas - For those wanting to study longer than six months, such as undergraduate or postgraduate degrees
• Family visas – For those joining family members who are British citizens
• Visas for children – For children joining their parents or legal guardians 
• Ancestry visa – For those who can claim British ancestry

Step 2: Get your passport in order

If you’ve already got a passport, you’ll need to check a couple of things:

• It needs to be valid for the duration of your stay in the UK
• You need at least two blank facing pages for your visa and stamps

If your passport is expired (or about to expire), you’ll need to either renew it or apply for a new one, depending on your nationality.

When you apply for a new passport, you’ll have to do it in person so your identity can be verified. Processing times can vary – expect to wait around seven to 21 working days. Passports are generally valid for 10 years.

When can’t you apply for a UK visa?

If you’re already in the UK, you won’t be able to apply for a visa. You may be able to switch to a different visa or extend your stay while in the UK .

Step 3: Get all your documents

The documents you need depend on the visa you apply for. Research your specific application to check you've got everything in order.

TB test results

South Africans applying for a UK visa valid for longer than six months are required to provide tuberculosis (TB) results. If you have been living in one of the countries that does not require a TB test, and are returning to South Africa to make your application, a TB test won’t be required. Your dedicated caseworker will advise you accordingly. 

Why it’s so important to be tested at a UKVI-approved clinic

If you get tested at a clinic that has not been approved by by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), your application will be denied and you will not be allowed to enter the country on a valid UK visa. It is vital that you contact one of the three clinics below and make them aware that you are undergoing the TB test for a UK visa application.

Before the screening, make sure you bring your passport, two passport-sized photos and proof of payment of your test fee (printed).

Are there any exceptions to this rule?

If you’re planning to stay in the UK for less than six months on a UK visitor visa, you don’t need to get tested for TB.

If you are applying on behalf of a child/children under the age of eleven, they still need to attend the appointment but will most likely not have to undergo a chest x-ray. 

Step 4: Check your visa fees

Different visas have different fees. Make sure you’re prepared by checking how much yours will set you back. Here are some common visas and their respective government application fees*:

*These fees are correct as of 4 October 2024 and are charged by UKVI and exclude any fees charged by us.

Immigration healthcare surcharge

You might need to pay a healthcare surcharge as part of your immigration application, depending on the visa you’re applying for. The current IHS fee of £624 is set to increase to £1,035 at the end of 2023 or early 2024. You’ll have to pay:

• £776 per year for a Student visa, for example £1,552 for a two-year visa
• £776 per year for visa and immigration applicants who are under the age of 18 at the time of application
• £1,035 per year for all other visa and immigration applications, for example £5,120 for a five-year visa

Step 5: Apply for your UK visa

We always recommend letting an experienced immigration consultant help with your visa application. From start to finish, they will be with you at every step. No visa application process is the same, and your requirements will vary according your circumstances.

Once they know what you’re looking for, they will talk you through the process and provide you with all the information you need to ensure a smooth application.

They will also help you get all your documents in order and submit the application on your behalf.

We offer a no visa, no fee service.

Step 6: attend appointments.

As part of your application, you may be required to attend an appointment to capture your biometric information – photos and fingerprints. You’ll need to check what the process is in your country or speak to an advisor if you’re unsure. If we handle your visa application, we’ll let you know well in advance about any appointments you’ll need to attend.

Step 7: The waiting period

After you’ve made your application, all that’s left is to wait for a decision. There are no definite waiting periods, but it’s generally a couple of weeks. Here’s how long it can take per visa category:

It’s important to note that post-Covid these waiting times have increased drastically. You could wait up to 15 weeks for a decision on a Skilled Worker visa, and 24 weeks for a Spousal visa at this point in time.

Aside from your visa, there are a few other things you need to consider before you set off to the UK. Of course, you'll need to book flights to get there. You’ll also need to plan for any costs associated with staying there, such as accommodation, food and transport.

Whatever your reason for going to the UK, we know you’ll have a great time. We’ve been helping people move there for over 20 years. Our clients have had some amazing experiences and success stories. Let us help you get settled in the UK. From opening a UK bank account and getting your NI number , to all-in-one relocation packages - we’re there for you at every step.

Get started on the right foot with your new life in the UK.

Get in touch with us to start your visa application process. Email [email protected] or call +27 (0) 21 657 2180 to get started.

We are a professional services company that specialises in cross-border financial and immigration advice and solutions.

Our teams in the UK, South Africa and Australia can ensure that when you decide to move overseas, invest offshore or expand your business internationally, you'll do so with the backing of experienced local experts.

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Your Guide to the UK Visa Application Process: Emigrating from South Africa

Are you a South African citizen looking to emigrate to the UK?

If so, you may be wondering how to begin the UK visa application process, including which visas are available to you and whether you may be eligible.

To discuss your immigration matter with one of our qualified immigration lawyers, contact IAS on 0333 305 9375 .

Request a call back from our immigration experts

The uk visa process.

If you are looking to move from South Africa to the UK as a South African national, you will typically be required to apply for a UK visa, unless you are entitled to British citizenship .

The UK’s immigration system can be complex to navigate, with migrants frequently facing rejections from the UK Home Office when submitting their visa applications. For this reason, it is important to make sure that you are eligible for the visa you wish to apply for and it is highly advisable that you seek the expertise of an accredited immigration lawyer who can guide you through this process.

Since the UK officially left the European Union on 1st January 2021, sweeping changes have been made to the UK’s visa system. A key change is that the UK no longer has tier-based immigration system but instead has a points-based system. This means that visa applicants must meet a specific amount of ‘points’ in order to qualify for the respective visa; points are obtained by meeting certain requirements which vary depending on the visa itself.

Our expert immigration lawyers offer a wide range of supportive legal services for UK visa applicants, including providing tailored immigration advice, practical support with applications, document checking services, assistance with appeals, asylum support, and more.

To find out how we can help you, call us today on 0333 305 9375 .

Which UK Visas are open to South Africans?

Any foreign national can apply for a UK visa, including South African citizens. Since Brexit, both EU citizens and non-EU/EEA citizens are required to hold a valid UK visa to live, work or study in the country (unless the EU citizen already has pre-settled or settled status in the UK). The UK visa system can be split into the following key categories:

• Family Visas
• Student Visas
• Business Visas
• Visitor Visas

Within each category is a range of different UK visas, with some of the most popular visa routes including:

• Spouse Visa: This is for those who wish to join their spouse/civil partner (who is either a British citizen or person with UK settled status) in the UK
• Visitor Visa: This is a temporary visa for those who are visiting the UK for no longer than 6 months
• Skilled Worker Visa: This UK visa replaced the former Tier 2 General Work Visa and is for skilled individuals who are qualified and experienced to take up specialised work in the UK
• Student Visa: This allows non-British nationals to study at an authorised UK academic institution

This is by no means an exhaustive list. There are a vast range of other UK visas, including visas for those looking to set up and run an innovative business in the UK, visas for dependents, visas for the unmarried partner or fiancé of a British citizen/settled person in the UK, temporary work visas, and many more.

How do I apply for a UK visa from South Africa?

The UK visa application process varies depending on which visa you are applying for, due to each one having unique requirements. However, you can apply for most UK visas from outside of the UK – including from South Africa – online.

Whilst you can complete the UK visa application yourself, is highly advisable that you work with a qualified immigration lawyer who has experience in preparing and submitting UK visa applications. You will have to provide a number of supporting documents for certain visas in order to prove that you are eligible for this specific type of immigration permission.

When applying for a UK visa, you will typically be required to provide your personal details along with evidence to support your application – such as proof of your qualifications and skills (for those applying for a Skilled Worker visa) or evidence that your relationship is genuine (for those applying for one of the UK partner visas).

To find out which supporting documents you should provide within your UK visa application, you should look at the requirements for the specific visa you are applying for. Some visas require the applicant to meet a specific income criteria, for example, or may request evidence to show that you will not overstay your time in the UK.

How long does it take for a UK visa to be approved?

Each visa has its own processing times, making it impossible to provide one answer for all UK visas.

However, UKVI frequently updates its processing times, meaning you are able to check how long your UK visa application should take. In typical circumstances, you can expect to receive a decision on your UK visa within 6 months of applying.

One way to avoid delays is to ensure that your application provides the relevant supporting documents – this prevents the Home Office from having to request further evidence, which can add significant time to the process.

You should also apply in advance (within reason) to make sure that you allow yourself the necessary time to secure your desired UK visa before you are due to travel to the UK. You will not be able to enter or remain in the UK without the relevant visa.

If you are applying to extend your visa or switch to a different UK visa, the processing times will again vary. However, the Home Office should be able to give an estimated timeframe.

If your UK visa application is rejected, you may be entitled to appeal this decision. This will, however, increase the overall time it takes to acquire the respective visa.

Do you need help with your UK visa application?

If you would like expert guidance and practical assistance with any UK visa application, our committed team of immigration lawyers are here to help you.

Our immigration experts can assess your personal circumstances, making sure that you qualify for the visa you wish to apply for. From here, we can both complete and submit your visa application to the Home Office on your behalf.

To enquire or book a consultation, contact us today on 0333 305 9375 .

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BEWARE OF UK VISA APPOINTMENT SCAMS

Only book UK visa appointments through TLScontact.

TLScontact is the only official partner for UK Visas and Immigration in South Africa.

Beware of other websites, companies or individuals attempting to sell UK visa appointments.

UK visa appointments are available for free at the TLScontact Visa Application Centre in Cape Town.

TLScontact also provides some appointments for a fee. These offer additional flexibility or convenience. However, these paid appointments are all optional, and there are always free appointments available at other times or on other days. Please view the Added Value Services page for more information on the fees for these services.

TLScontact cannot guarantee that any appointments arranged through other companies or individuals will be legitimate or accepted when you arrive at the TLScontact Visa Application Centre.

Update to Settlement Visa Application Process. Click here for more details.

For your protection, please note that legitimate TLScontact employees will not ask you to make payment via telephone. All payments related to TLScontact services should be made directly via our website or at our visa application centre .

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Can I travel to South Africa? Entry requirements from the UK explained

By Abigail Malbon and Natalie Munro

The rules around travelling to South Africa have been completely lifted, meaning you can now enjoy all that the country has to offer, whether that’s booking your next safari or taking in the bustle and beauty of Cape Town . 

Here's what you need to know now before your next trip. 

Is travel to South Africa from the UK allowed?

Yes. There are no longer restrictions when travelling from the UK to South Africa, and there will be no entry requirements upon your return either. 

What are the entry requirements for South Africa?

There are currently no covid-related entry requirements when travelling to South Africa.

Your passport must be valid for at least 30 days after the date you intend to leave South Africa. Before travelling, it’s important to still check the latest rules and restrictions for both South Africa and the UK on official government websites. We also recommend investing in travel insurance with Covid cover to ensure you’re protected on your trip.

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F F rom its stunning landscapes to its rich cultural heritage and abundant wildlife, every trip to South Africa is filled with unforgettable experiences. However, before you go make sure to check out all the key information to have the best experience possible after you touch down in the Rainbow Nation.

VITAL INFORMATION

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:  British and Irish citizens don’t need to obtain a visa for stays of up to 90 days. See requirements for children travelling through South African ports of entry here.   To check entry information for any other nationality, please check with the South African High Commission or the IATA Travel Centre .

• All COVID Arrival protocols lifted
• Masks no longer required

TIME ZONE GMT+1 (UK & Ireland Summer), GMT+2  (UK & Ireland Winter).

FLIGHT TIME 11 hours from London to Jo'burg or 12 hours from London to Cape Town on a direct flight.

Fly direct with British Airways and Virgin Atlantic .

Indirect flights:  Emirates | Qatar Airways | Turkish Airlines | Ethiopian Airlines | Kenya Airways | KLM | Lufthansa | Air France | Swiss International | TAP

CURRENCY The Pound remains strong against the Rand (local currency). See the latest conversion here . South Africa is the cheapest long-haul destination for Brits according to  Post Office Holiday Money Report 2023.

A glass of wine costs around £3.07, a coffee £1.42 and for a three-course dinner with wine for two you would pay £35.80.  

LANGUAGES South Africa has 11 official languages. English is widely spoken throughout the country.

BEST TIME TO VISIT South Africa is a year-round destination with the climate varying all over the country. Summer runs from November to March, making the southwest hot and dry with average temperatures of 23C, while the winter brings mild, dry temperatures to the tropical northeast coast with average temperatures of 26C.

TIPPING South Africa is similar to the UK, with 10-15% customary in restaurants and for tour guides.

HEALTH  We suggest checking for the latest guidance from the NHS before travelling. Please note that malaria tablets are only advised in the Kruger region of South Africa. Head to the NHS Fit for Travel site for more information.

LGBTQ+ VISITORS

South Africa has a bustling LGBTQ+ scene with lively bars, clubs, and multiple Pride parades (the two most popular ones are organised yearly in Cape Town and Joburg). It's a welcoming destination for LGBTQ+ travellers and a popular place for weddings and honeymoons.

How to travel around South Africa?

DOMESTIC FLIGHTS South Africa has a well-developed network of domestic airports, making it easy to hop between major cities and tourist destinations. Airlines like Airlink, South African Airways, CEMAir, FlySafair and Lift are the main carriers.

DRIVING As in the UK, South Africans drive on the left-hand side of the road. Hiring a vehicle is one of the most affordable options for getting around and also one of the best ways to experience the nation’s breathtaking scenery.  A couple of simple rules to follow:

• Know where you are going - Google Maps isn't reliable in certain areas of the country
• Don't drive at night - lack of adequate lighting can be challenging

TAXIS Metered taxis are widely available throughout the country, especially in urban areas. Popular taxi apps — such as Uber — are a great and safe way to get around cities.

TRAINS The luxurious Blue Train and Rovos Rail offer upscale, scenic train journeys.

SHUTTLES Many tourist destinations offer shuttle services to and from airports and key attractions. These shuttles are convenient and hassle-free.

ESCORTED TOURS Joining an escorted tour, whether by bus, safari vehicle, or boat, is a popular way to explore South Africa's wildlife reserves, national parks, and cultural attractions while benefiting from local knowledge and expertise.

ON FOOT Walking around cities and towns in South Africa can be a great way to explore the local culture, history, and scenery. Many cities and towns offer pedestrian-friendly areas and have a range of experiences you can enjoy such as local markets, culinary adventures, botanical gardens and art galleries.

As with any city, remember to take normal safety precautions, especially in urban areas, and be aware of your surroundings.

F or inspiration and insider tips, follow us on  Instagram ,  Facebook , Twitter , and   Tik Tok.   Tag  #VisitSouthAfrica  to share your pics with us, or  subscribe to our newsletter  for the latest information, holiday offers, prizes and events across South Africa.

South Africa on social media

South Africa views can't be beaten. 💙⁣ 📸 Pictured is a throwback to Cape Town summer vibes on Clifton Beach, caugh… https://t.co/vhHZ2y3CAT

You might know giraffes are the world's tallest living land animals, but did you know that adult males can grow to… https://t.co/xZHgoUtzMs

Happy #FathersDay! 😀 Dad, which epic outdoor adventure do you wish you were doing today? 🛶 Kayaking into the Storm… https://t.co/80dAVS8plr

It's #WorldCrocodileDay! And look at this 'speed bump' blocking the road at Shipandani, in Northern Kruger on the b… https://t.co/AIFtUSPTVG

Imagine looking THIS good at 4,500 million years old!! 😉 Explore one of South Africa's largest and most dramatic c… https://t.co/xjXGiR7Ki3

Let's have a debate — wood, charcoal, or gas for the ultimate braai? 🤤 🍗 🍖 🥘 ⁣ ⁣ 📸 Pictured is @kgau_the_cookist's… https://t.co/wJi5x765Xc

Have you seen the three bridge crossing Gouritz River in the Mossel Bay area? 👉🏾 Bridge 1 (front) is a railway tra… https://t.co/DeBmQp8lRn

Whale, whale, whale, what have we here? 🐋😉 Today is @UN's #WorldOceansDay, a day to celebrate the importance of ou… https://t.co/2nFnDuD8dh

RT @southafricauk: Who's ready to take off to South Africa this month? ✈️ 🇿🇦 📸 Pictured is moyo uShaka Pier in Durban photographed by @aw…

Who's ready to take off to South Africa this month? ✈️ 🇿🇦 📸 Pictured is moyo uShaka Pier in Durban photographed b… https://t.co/74hQMtxhCn

RT @southafricauk: We're spoilt for choice, but where do you think the most beautiful spots are? 🤔 https://t.co/koOdMaTG14

🍃 5. Hotel Verde (📍 at Cape Town International Airport) - coined 'Africa's Greenest Hotel,' they offer a 100% offse… https://t.co/qS8ac8aQh6

🍃 4. @Tswalu. (📍 Kalahari, Northern Cape.) They've had huge successes in conserving and restoring the Kalahari ecos… https://t.co/xODUJ2426p

🍃 3. @SibuyaGameRes (📍 Kenton-on-Sea, Eastern Cape). A game reserve accessed solely by boat! It's run almost exclu… https://t.co/ZmyHEVoVEy

🍃 2. Jaci’s Lodges (📍 North West Province) - Eco-friendly luxury safari in Madikwe Game Reserve, focusing on nature… https://t.co/sc9wlT4A7G

This #WorldEnvironmentDay let's look at 5 South African properties making sustainable choices. 🌎💙 🍃 1… https://t.co/RbFsL5YWhf

We're spoilt for choice, but where do you think the most beautiful spots are? 🤔 https://t.co/koOdMaTG14

Did you know South Africa's national flower is the King Protea? 😍 Pictured is the exquisite Madiba Protea - a sma… https://t.co/LHi5KY3WM8

RT @southafricauk: It's the start of winter in South Africa 🇿🇦 Here's what you can expect from a visit to South Africa in June. 🦁 1. Drie…

Roll up, roll up for the greatest shoal on earth occurring naturally between May-July each year! 🐟🐟🐟 The Sardine… https://t.co/bufAaedpVk

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Apply for a visa

If you want to visit South Africa, you must produce a valid visa before you can enter into the country. A visa will be issued for a visit for tourism or business purposes and is valid for a period of 90 days.

Some countries are exempted from visa control, which means that citizens from those countries do not need a visa to visit South Africa.

Visas are not issued at South African ports of entry, and airline officials must insist on visas before allowing passengers to board. If you arrive without a visa, immigration officials are obliged to put you onto a flight back to your home country. Depending on your intended visit, you can apply for a Visitor’s Visa or a Transit Visa. Find out more about the:

• requirements for a visa
• types of visas
• countries exempt from South African visas

or contact the Department of Home Affairs .

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South Africa Visa » Requirements » Requirements for UK Citizens

South Africa Visa for UK Citizens

The majority of foreign passport holders are required to obtain a South Africa visa to travel to the country. A South Africa visa for UK citizens is not required for short periods of stay, but British passport holders need a South African visa for longer visits and certain travel purposes

A South Africa eVisa system has now been launched for 14 countries . The South Africa electronic visa is available through a simple online application which will only take a few minutes to complete.

The electronic visa is being implemented in order to expedite the application process to allow foreign citizens easier access to South Africa, eliminating the need to apply at a consulate or embassy.

A South Africa electronic visa for UK citizens is not currently available, and it is not yet known if British nationals will be added to the eVisa program in the future. At present, British passport holders who need a South Africa visa need to submit an embassy application.

Do I Need a Visa for South Africa from the UK?

At present, citizens of 28 countries can enter South Africa visa-free for up to 30 days. Passport holders of an additional 48 nationalities can visit South Africa visa-free for tourism or business for a maximum 90-day stay, including citizens of the United Kingdom.

Although a South Africa visa for UK citizens is not required for stays up to 90 days , British travelers will be required to obtain one of the South Africa visa types for longer visits and purposes other than tourism or business.

British nationals who possess specific professional skills that are in demand in the country are able to apply for a South Africa critical skills visa for UK citizens. This is available for different periods depending on the type of work to be undertaken.

Those who wish to apply for a South African work visa for UK citizens can do so at the embassy in London, or through a Visa Facilitation Services Center in South Africa.

Those wishing to stay for longer than 90 days for tourism or business will also need to apply for a South African visa for UK citizens from an embassy or consulate.

South Africa Visa Requirements for British Citizens

The South Africa visa requirements for British citizens depend on the type of visa the individual needs.

• A valid UK passport
• Completed application form for the relevant visa type
• Payment method to pay the visa fee
• Proof of sufficient funds to cover the stay in South Africa
• Proof of medical insurance cover
• Letter of invitation from an educational institute ( study visas )
• Police clearance certificate (study or work visas)
• Certificate from the Department of Labor ( work visas )

If the South Africa eVisa becomes available for UK citizens, this page will be updated with the requirements for the electronic visa.

How to Apply for South Africa Visa from the UK

As stated above, a South African eVisa for UK citizens is not currently available.

British nationals are not currently able to use an online application if they need a visa for South Africa. Instead, they must use the traditional embassy application method and need to:

• Make an appointment at the nearest South African embassy or consulate
• Complete a visa application
• Gather the supporting documents required for the type of visa
• Attend an in-person interview with the relevant documents
• Pay the visa fee to submit their application

Processing times for South African embassy visas can often be lengthy. Therefore, UK applicants are advised to begin the process of obtaining the visa far in advance of their intended date of arrival in South Africa.

Once the visa is approved, travelers will be able to visit the country using a copy of the South Africa Visa for UK citizens and their corresponding passport, which must be the same as that used for the application.

Depending on the type of visa issued, additional documentation may be requested at border entry points before the traveler is granted entry.

These may include proof of onward or return flights, or a certificate of vaccination if the traveler is arriving form a yellow fever country.

The South African Embassy in the UK

Although a South African tourist visa for UK citizens is not necessary for short stays, British nationals who require a travel document such as a work visa or a study visa will be required to apply at the South African embassy in London.

The South African Embassy in London

South Africa House,

Trafalgar Square, London,

Phone: +44 (0) 20 7451 7299

Fax: +44 (0) 20 7839 5674

It’s important to remember that a South Africa visa from the UK is not required for stays under 90 days , whether for business or tourism purposes.

Currently, an Irish visa is not required by a citizen of South Africa to enter into Ireland. Image: Pixabay

Ireland considers scrapping visa-free travel for South Africans

Ireland is looking at ending visa-free travel from South Africa due to the influx of international protection applicants and asylum seekers.

The government of Ireland wants to enhance immigration control amid challenges with accommodating asylum seekers, and is looking at scrapping visa-free travel for South Africans.

Discussions among ministers are underway regarding the potential changes to their visa policies, writes SchengenVisaInfo .

According to the Irish Times , concerns have been raised over nationals from Zimbabwe and the Democratic Republic of Congo using South African passports to enter Ireland.

Visa-free movement on SA passports

Data released by the Irish Department of Justice revealed that 198 people arriving in Ireland on South African passports are currently undergoing processing.

This number constitutes over three percent of the total applicants so far in 2024, it said.

According to Irish politician Simon Harris, the government intends to implement measures that will manage the flow of asylum applicants crossing into Ireland via Northern Ireland.

Justice Minister Helen McEntee further noted that over 80% of international protection applicants entered the country through Northern Ireland.

As such, she emphasised the importance of increased cooperation between Ireland’s Garda and Northern Ireland’s Police Service.

Despite existing measures at airports, additional restrictions to effectively address the situation were needed, she added.

Housing Challenges

More than 5 000 individuals have already applied for asylum in Ireland this year. The Irish government is anticipating a further surge in arrivals in the coming months.

Irish government is under pressure to accommodate around 1 600 male asylum seekers, and is reaching out to church dioceses for alternate, temporary shelter options.

This mirrors past collaborations with the church, such as providing refuge to individuals fleeing the war in Ukraine.

Authorities are exploring alternative solutions while awaiting an official decision from the government on tightening rules to manage asylum applications.

Currently, an Irish visa is not required by a citizen of South Africa to enter into Ireland, but it is needed to work, study and naturalise in the country.

South Africans repatriating

Meanwhile, many South African expats are returning home to snap up properties due to the favourable exchange rate.

Now equipped with better buying power to invest in property, these South Africans perceive their home country as offering better value for long-term financial stability.

A portion of these buyers are still employed by international companies. The flexibility of remote work has enabled them to settle back in South Africa, or become ‘swallows.’

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Tourist arrivals from South Africa up 38% on visa free plan

• The number of tourists grew to 37,370 compared to 27,103 in 2022.
• Africa has a population of about 1.2 billion people

The easing of visa restrictions and enhanced travel trade partnerships are some of the strategies that have seen visitor arrivals from South Africa to Kenya record a 38 per cent growth.

The Southern African market by the end of last year registered 37,370 arrivals into the country compared to 27,103 in 2022, translating to a 38 per cent increase.

Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) together with 16 Kenya tourism travel trade are currently pitching camp at South Africa’s World Travel Mart (WTM) in Cape Town city to woo travellers into the destination.

KTB CEO June Chepkemei says that the recent visitor arrivals paint an encouraging picture of the potential to further grow the market through strategic partnerships and initiatives that would cement ties and provide the impetus for more travel between the two countries.

"As we take part in the 2024 WTM Africa, we are excited by the tremendous growth witnessed from South Africa and the larger African market that has continued to be an important visitor source for Kenya," said Chepkemei.

This, she noted, is buoyed by a raft of recent developments including the waiving of entry fees for passport holders from South Africa and other African Nations aimed at boosting tourism and attracting business into Kenya.

“As part of our strategy to grow more numbers in Kenya, we are well aware that the African continent is a low-hanging fruit to focus on as we nurture our footprint in a highly competitive global tourism landscape.

"Africa has a population of about 1.2 billion people, if we harness this potential well, we this continent can fully sustain our tourism sector," she added.

Kenya is among the top destinations pitching at the three-day WTA Africa expo that is taking place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), Cape Town from April 10 to 12.

At least 7,500 participants drawn from various markets globally and across the continent are expected to participate in the annual event It is one of the six shows under the WTM portfolio aimed at bringing the benefits and opportunities of the global industry expertise to travel professionals in Africa.

According to the KTB CEO, air connectivity and the diversity of the destination offering has made Kenya a preferred destination for the South African traveller.

She lauded national carrier, Kenya Airways, for enabling seamless air connectivity between Nairobi and South Africa, with the national carrier operating direct flights to Johannesburg and Cape Town.

“We are keen to working with more partners so as to firmly stamp our presence in the region and showcase all the facets that make Magical Kenya a destination of choice," added the CEO.

After a string of successful marketing initiatives including roadshows in the West African markets of Nigeria and Ghana as well as a charm offensive targeting East Africa travellers during the recent WRC Safari Rally, KTB has its sights set on marketing Kenya to fully tap into all facets of the African travel market.

In the latest tourism performance report, Kenya attracted 1.96 million arrivals in 2023 with a majority or 41 per cent share coming from the African market.

KTB aims to grow Kenya's market share in Africa to six per cent, buoyed by the potential presented by key events like WTM Africa to make further inroads.

Your top stories on Thursday: Ex-Irish special forces resume training in Libya despite warnings; visa-free travel from South Africa could be halted

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Former Irish special forces soldiers resume training for rogue Libyan general despite warnings

Former soldiers of the elite Army Ranger Wing have resumed military training operations in Libya in apparent breach of international sanctions, despite warnings from the Irish Government.

Irish Training Solutions (ITS), which was founded by former members of Ireland’s elite special forces unit, now has 16 instructors training the troops of L ibyan warlord Khalifa Haftar under a contract worth more than €10 million. The deal is due to run into 2025.

Earlier this month, The Irish Times published an investigation detailing a contract between ITS and the Russian-backed general Haftar to train a special forces unit for his Libyan National Army in an apparent contravention of EU and UN arms embargoes on the country.

• End of visa-free travel from South Africa to be discussed by Ministers: The expected move comes less than three years after the need for visas for travel from South Africa was abolished and results from officials’ warnings that people from Zimbabwe and the Democratic Republic of Congo are travelling on South African passports.
• Brazilian Deliveroo rider who intervened in Parnell Square attack says he ‘could be a voice’ for immigrants: The Brazilian former Deliveroo rider who intervened in the knife attack outside a school on Parnell Square helping to rescue a five-year-old child said he “could be a voice” representing the immigrant community as he will be standing as a Fianna Fáil candidate in the local elections.
• Aoife Johnston’s death could have been prevented by timely antibiotics, consultant says: The administration of antibiotics in a timely and appropriate manner would likely have prevented the death of 16-year-old Aoife Johnston, an inquest has heard.
• Family of George Nkencho to appeal decision not to prosecute gardaí involved in fatal shooting : The family of George Nkencho intends to appeal a decision by the Director of Public Prosecutions not to prosecute gardaí involved in the fatal shooting of the 27-year-old outside his Dublin home in 2020.
• Miriam Lord: Simon Harris hares around the Dáil like the Duracell bunny - but then the battery goes flat: There is a certain woolliness around the balaclava these days, and the Taoiseach isn’t wearing it.
• Check out today’s Most Read stories
• Join The Irish Times WhatsApp channel for breaking news straight to your phone.
• Donald Trump’s claim to immunity from prosecution to be heard by US supreme court today: Donald Trump will on Thursday urge the US supreme court to adopt an expansive view of presidential immunity that would confer near-absolute protection for actions taken while in the White House.

The Big Read

The average age of a home purchaser in Ireland rose from 35 in 2010 to 39 in 2021, Central Statistics Office figures show. Photograph: iStock

• A home of your own: What is in the housing plan for under-40s? : Many young people feel getting on the property ladder is a distant dream. But on Wednesday morning, Government Ministers insisted that schemes are in place to help younger buyers.
• Finn McRedmond: Snobbery about snobs is misplaced. Just ask foodie Eoin Ó Broin
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• Canadian firm buys Irish aviation company in €57m deal: Irish company Aerospace Software Developments (ASD) has been bought by Canadian firm Descartes Systems Group in a deal worth €57 million.
• The least famous best player the NBA has ever had: ‘I really wish nobody knows me’: Nikola Jokic is a preternatural basketball talent smashing records set by LeBron James - all while trying hard to not be a celebrity, writes Dave Hannigan.

Picture of the Day

The coffin of seven-year-old Shay Lynch is carried from St Senan's Church in Clonlara yesterday. The boy who died in a swimming pool accident in Co Clare was remembered by his father as a 'gentle, sweet, boy' who regularly left notes and pictures on his parents' pillows. Photograph Liam Burke/Press 22

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