Welcome Message
Thank you for visiting the official website of the South African High Commission in the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (UK). Whether you are planning to visit South Africa, are keen to pursue economic interests in South Africa or are interested in the activities of the High Commission, we hope that you find the information useful.
Placing humanity at the centre of all of our activities, in particular the provision of service to our clients, the High Commission staff subscribes to “Batho Pele” (Putting People First) and to the principles of “Ubuntu.” These are reflective of the values that a democratic South Africa upholds, as we seek to create a better South Africa for all who live in it. The High Commission in the UK serves to contribute to the creation of a better South Africa through its engagement with the government and people of the United Kingdom.
South Africa’s democracy is a robust one. While we acknowledge that we have many challenges, we are not defined by it and therefore, we endeavour to constantly highlight the successes we have achieved, as a relatively young democratic nation.
South Africa remains a premier tourism destination characterised by youthfulness, beautiful wildlife, pristine beaches and breath-taking scenery, vibrant cultural and heritage offerings, unique cuisine, exciting adventure, an amazing climate and, a people collectively invested in providing you with your best experience yet.
South Africa is also open for business! As an emerging market economy, we boast world-class infrastructure, a highly developed and sophisticated banking system, an independent judiciary, the largest ports on the African continent and, our greatest asset – our highly resourceful people – who are ready to get to work and get the job done.
Latest News
Statement on the situation in South Africa
16 July 2021
Our spirit is not easily broken
A wave of looting, and unrest has swept parts of our country over the past 5 days. Lives have been lost; properties destroyed, the threat of food insecurity looms, but the resilience of our people has not been broken; it has been emboldened.
Community members have become the shield that protects lives, and livelihoods. Able bodied individuals have availed themselves to the Police Services to augment the efforts already underway. The South African National Taxi Association has now called on all its members to form a barrier between the looting criminals and places of business, the malls and other infrastructure, integral to functioning of society, and the economy.
In some communities members are conducting door-to-door calls to establish if there are stolen goods in circulation, while in other areas, – to restore normality – people have started to clean up the streets. Taxi drivers are using their vehicles to assist with the delivery of bread to homes that are in desperate need. Cottage industries that bake bread are offering it at a reduced price, and are delivering within a short kilometre radius. Individuals, civic and religious organisations are coordinating the delivery of food parcels.
These are but a few of the very positive developments. A new mood is beginning to characterise our nation – and it stands in stark contrast and opposition to that of the criminals. It is becoming the dominant force that stands opposed to narrow criminal ends.
These are the messages that should be spread and circulated internationally, and on every available platform. It is a narrative of hope. Insidious, inflammatory, and unconfirmed reports must not be spread. At a minimum, such misinformation puts lives at risk.
Nomatemba Tambo
High Commissioner
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CIVIC AND IMMIGRATION SERVICES UPDATE
CIVIC SERVICES APPOINTMENTS:
Due to a high volume of requests, there is a significant backlog. As a result, the current turnaround time is a minimum of 30 days for all enquiries and requests, effective 30 June 2021
Your patience during this unprecedented period is acknowledged.
Update on Civic Issues and the DHA-9 form
All South African Citizens including dual citizens living abroad must keep their South African passports valid at all times when abroad. It is advisable to apply for your new passport 12 months before expiry of your current passport.
South African citizens must enter and depart South Africa with their valid South African passport only. A South African citizen entering South Africa with a foreign passport will be subjected to a fine or imprisonment (in terms of the South African Citizenship Act, 1995)
All births registrations must take place within 30 days of the birth of a child (in terms of the Births and Deaths Registration Act, 1992.)
Application Forms and Information
DHA 24 (all categories) and DHA 9 have a unique bar code therefore cannot be downloaded because an original form is required. These can be completed at the office during the appointment.
Message of condolence on the passing of His Royal Highness Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh
9 April 2021 – 5:30pm
President Cyril Ramaphosa has, on behalf of the Government and people of South Africa, expressed his deep condolences to Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom, on the passing of His Royal Highness Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.
As the husband of Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Philip was the longest-serving consort in the history of the British monarchy.
Prince Philip passed away on Friday, 9 April 2021, at the age of 99.
President Ramaphosa says South Africa’s thoughts and prayers are with Her Majesty, the Royal Family, the Government and people of the United Kingdom as they mourn their loss.
The President says Prince Philip was a remarkable public figure who lived an extraordinary life and who will be fondly remembered by many people around the world.
Media enquiries: Tyrone Seale, Acting Spokesperson to President Ramaphosa
Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
2021 List of Public Holidays observed by the South African High Commission
| Date | Public Holiday |
|---|---|
| 1 January | New Year’s Day |
| 2 April | Good Friday |
| 5 April | Easter Monday/Family Day |
| 27 April | Freedom Day |
| 3 May | May Day |
| 31 May | Late May Bank Holiday |
| 16 June | Youth Day |
| 9 August | National Women’s Day |
| 30 August | August Bank Holiday |
| 24 September | Heritage Day |
| 16 December | Day of Reconciliation |
| 27 December | Day of Goodwill |