Transiting through the UK on a South African passport

Check the actual journey

• Will you remain airside or pass UK border control?
• Do you change airports, collect baggage or stay overnight?
• Which passport and other valid visas or residence documents will you carry?
• What is the onward destination and timing?

Use the transit checker before booking assumptions

Read the official transit visa guidance and use the visa checker. Direct Airside Transit, Visitor in Transit and a visit to the UK are different questions. Exemptions have specific conditions.

Check the airline arrangements too

Confirm baggage, airport transfer and document checks with the carrier. Airline boarding checks and the UK immigration requirement are related but separate. If the answer remains unclear, resolve it before travel.