A UK visa application centre has been launched through a partnership between Discovery Bank and VFS Global, catering to travellers planning a visit to the UK.
Image: Unsplash
The standard procedure for South Africans seeking a UK visa involves an online application through the UK government's website, payment of requisite fees, and scheduling an appointment at a VFS Global centre (located in Pretoria, Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, or Port Elizabeth) to submit biometrics and supporting documents.
However, a markedly simpler process is available for certain applicants.
Discovery Bank has announced that clients intending to travel to the UK can now utilise a streamlined application process for their UK visa.
The bank has launched South Africa’s first dedicated visa application centre, specifically designed for its clients travelling to the UK.
This centre is located within the Discovery Store at 1 Discovery Place in Sandton, Johannesburg, and was established in partnership with VFS Global.
According to the bank, the launch of this service was prompted by high demand, as the United Kingdom is the most popular international holiday destination for its clients.
Over 16 000 members and their families travelled on discounted flights between South Africa and the UK in 2025.
Hylton Kallner, CEO of Discovery Bank, emphasised the unique value of integrating this service into the bank’s ecosystem.
“This partnership is another step in realising our vision of making banking and travel seamless. The Discovery Store, a physical representation of the Discovery brand, is already a one-stop destination where clients can apply for an ID or passport, complete health assessments, and manage their financial needs.
“Now, by integrating a dedicated UK visa application centre right here, we are creating a truly integrated and convenient hub for our clients. It’s about bringing essential services together in one place, saving them time and simplifying their journey,” he stated.
“We are delighted to partner with Discovery to launch South Africa’s first dedicated UK visa application centre within the Discovery Store in Sandton," added Siddharth Mehra, chief operating officer for the Middle East, Africa, Türkiye, and Azerbaijan at VFS Global.
"This innovative collaboration brings together two organisations focused on enhancing customer experience, delivering a more seamless, accessible, and premium way for applicants to submit their UK visa applications, while maintaining the highest standards of security, efficiency, and service excellence.”
To utilise this new service, Discovery Bank clients must complete the visa application form on the official UK government website, www.gov.uk.
Once they receive a reference number, clients can book an appointment to visit the visa centre through Vitality Travel.
It is important to note that VFS Global and Discovery Bank provide administrative support only and do not influence visa processing timelines or decisions.
All applications are assessed and determined by UK Visas & Immigration.
Bookings are by appointment only, and walk-ins will not be accommodated.
When applying for visas, it is recommended that applications be made up to three months before travel.
Standard visitor visas are typically processed within 15 working days. Work or study visas may take between 3 and 8 weeks.
For those in need of faster processing, priority services are available.