Fees for the United Kingdom's recently imposed visa for South African travellers have been increased, according to British High Commission representative Murray Dulgety.

As of 9 April, South African travellers will now have to fork out R656 for a transit visa, R955 for a six-month visa and up to a staggering R7125 for a long-term (10-year) multiple entry visa.

In addition, all travellers have to apply for their visas in person to comply with the biometric testing requirement. Mr. Dulgety said "no exceptions will be made for the elderly or incapacitated", but the High Commission will encourage the UFS visa branches to "show compassion". Children under the age of five are exempt.

The visa application offices will also soon be able to offer an appointment system for travellers who may not have time to sit in a queue.

Mr. Dulgety admitted that the service provided at the visa offices has so far not been "up to scratch", but he said travellers can expect improvements: "We are here to help genuine South African travellers get to the UK, and are committed to making this work."

Meanwhile, the High Commission has confirmed that the temporary visa exemption granted to South African passport holders with proof of previous entry into the UK in their current passport will end on June 30. As a result, all South Africans travelling to the UK will require a visa from July 1 onwards.

Visit http://www.vfs-uk-za.com for more information on how to apply.

Published courtesy of Travel Industry Review.

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