For applicants over 17 years of age who have have a grandparent born in the UK or Republic Of Ireland (prior to 31st March 1992). Applicants need to be able to demonstrate they are able to and intend to work in the UK.
Partner Visas
The UK offers 4 types of partner visa; married, un-married, same sex and fiancée. Partner visas allow you to work and can lead to indefinite leave to remain in the UK.
Tier 1 Visa
Previously known as the highly skilled migrant visa. The Tier 1 Visa can be granted to individuals without the need for a job offer.
Tier 2 Visa
Tier 2 Visas are aimed at allowing the UK to accept migrant applications for work visas that will help to fill shortages in the UK labour market. A confirmed job offer is required.
Youth Mobility
Previously known as a working holiday visas. The Youth Mobility Scheme is only available to those who have citizenship of a country with a reciprocal agreement in place.
Tourist Visa
For those thinking of going to the UK on holiday or on a business trip, certain nationalities require tourist visa to be obtained prior to entry into the UK.
This visa has long been a favourite of the backpacker as it is relatively easy to obtain and gives flexible short term working rights. Currently the requirements are that you are a Commonwealth citizen from one of the participating 32 countries. In addition you must be between the ages of 18-30 inclusive and have intentions to work no longer than 12 months of the 2 year visa period. It is likely that this visa will no longer be made available to South African citizens after November 2008 when the visa will be converted to the Youth Mobility Scheme and it will be required that there are reciprocal arrangements between participating countries. Currently there is no reciprocal agreement between South Africa and the UK.
Designed for younger travellers, the UK working holiday visa allows individuals to enter the UK and stay for a period of 2 years during which time they may work for up to 12 months. The main purpose of the visit to the UK should be for a holiday.
Changes in the UK visa legislation coming into effect in the UK Autumn of 2008 may mean South Africans will no longer be able to apply for UK working holiday visa. Please see here for more details.
You can undertake most types of work but it cannot be for a period of longer than 12 months in the 2 year period the UK working holiday visa is issued for. You are prohibited from setting yourself up in business or being a professional sportsperson but can select what times you choose to work.
The two years granted under the UK working holiday visa commence on the date the visa is issued. Should you decide to return to your home country during this period the time frame on the visa still continues, i.e. the time you are out of the UK will count towards your two years.
In order to qualify for a UK Working Holiday visa you need to demonstrate you have sufficient funds to cover your expenses for the first month or two after you arrive in the UK. In addition you must prove you have sufficient funds to pay the cost of your journey to the UK or an appropriate booking.
You must be able to show the following in order to apply for a UK Working Holiday visa:
You are a citizen of one of the specified countries, or a British overseas Territories citizen, a British citizen overseas or a British national (overseas)
That you are either married or a civil partner of someone who also qualifies for the UK Working Holiday visa and you intend to come to the UK together, or are single.
Have no dependent children who are aged 5 and over or will be 5 and over by the time the holiday ends.
