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South Africa

Africa

South Africa is an increasingly popular destination for digital nomads, offering affordable living costs, excellent infrastructure in major cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg, stunning natural landscapes, and a newly launched Digital Nomad Visa. The country provides reliable internet, vibrant coworking scenes, and English as a primary business language, making it ideal for remote workers seeking adventure alongside productivity.

6
Visa Types
77
Nationalities visa-free
🪪Your Passport:

Visa requirements vary by nationality

🎫 Available Visa Types

⭐Recommended for Digital Nomads
Tourist

Visitor Visa (Visa-Free Entry)

Citizens of over 70 countries can enter South Africa visa-free for up to 90 days for tourism or business meetings. No advance application required.

90 days
Duration
ZAR 0
— fee
+ZAR 1,500 additional

✅ Key Benefits

✓Free entry for most Western nationalities
✓No advance application needed
✓Up to 90 days for tourism and business
✓Can be extended once for additional 90 days
✓Simple entry process
📋 Requirements (5)
  • •Valid passport with at least 2 blank pages
  • •Passport valid for 30 days after departure date
  • •Proof of sufficient funds
  • •Return or onward ticket
  • •Yellow fever certificate if arriving from endemic area
📝 Application Process
Embassy Required⏱ Immediate at port of entry
  1. 1Check if your nationality is visa-exempt for South Africa
  2. 2Ensure passport has 2 blank pages and 30+ days validity after departure
  3. 3Prepare proof of accommodation and return flight
  4. 4Have proof of sufficient funds available
  5. 5Present documents to immigration officer at port of entry
  6. 6Receive entry stamp valid for up to 90 days
Apply Online
🔄 Extension & Renewal

Extension: 90 days (max 1x)

Cost: 1,550 ZAR

Process: Apply at VFS Global at least 60 days before visa expiry. Submit form DHA-1739 with proof of funds, accommodation, and return ticket. Processing takes 4-8 weeks. Maximum total stay is 180 days.

Renewal: Cannot renew. Must exit and re-enter for a new 90-day period. Frequent entries may be questioned by immigration.

💡 Pro Tips

  • •Always keep a copy of your return ticket handy
  • •Carry proof of funds (bank statements or cash)
  • •Book accommodation for at least the first few nights
  • •Keep track of your 90-day limit to avoid overstay
  • •Apply for extension at least 60 days before expiry if needed
⭐Recommended for Digital Nomads
Special Program

Digital Nomad Visa (Remote Worker Visa)

Launched in 2024, this visa allows remote workers earning at least R650,976/year from foreign sources to live in South Africa for up to 3 years.

365 days
Duration
ZAR 1,975
— fee
+ZAR 9,350 additional

💰 Income Requirement

Minimum $650,976/per_year

Alternative: Must demonstrate consistent income through bank statements, contracts, or tax returns. Approximately USD 35,700 or EUR 33,000 per year.

✅ Key Benefits

✓Legal status for remote work in South Africa
✓Stay up to 3 years with renewals
✓Can include spouse and dependents
✓Tax exemption possible if staying less than 183 days
✓Access to beautiful landscapes and affordable living
✓Strong digital nomad community in Cape Town and Johannesburg
📋 Requirements (9)
  • •Valid passport with 2 blank pages and 30+ days validity
  • •Proof of remote employment with foreign company or freelance contracts
  • •Proof of minimum annual income of R650,976 (bank statements, payslips, contracts)
  • •Valid international health insurance for duration of stay
  • •Police clearance certificate from country of residence (last 5 years)
  • •Medical report on form DHA-811
  • •Proof of accommodation in South Africa
  • •Cover letter explaining purpose of stay
  • •Completed application form DHA-1738
📝 Application Process
Embassy Required⏱ 4-8 weeks depending on embassy workload
  1. 1Gather all required documents including proof of income and employment
  2. 2Obtain police clearance from your country of residence
  3. 3Get medical examination on prescribed DHA form
  4. 4Create account on VFS Global website for your country
  5. 5Book appointment at nearest VFS Global centre
  6. 6Attend appointment with all documents and pay fees
  7. 7Provide biometric data at VFS centre
  8. 8Track application status online
  9. 9Collect passport with visa or arrange courier delivery
Apply Online
🔄 Extension & Renewal

Extension: 365 days (max 2x)

Cost: 1,975 ZAR

Process: Apply for renewal through VFS Global at least 60 days before expiry. Must continue to meet income requirements. Maximum total stay is 3 years.

Renewal: Can renew annually up to 3 years total. Each renewal requires proof of continued foreign income and valid health insurance.

💡 Pro Tips

  • •Apply well in advance as processing can take 8+ weeks
  • •Keep 3 months of bank statements showing consistent income
  • •Health insurance must cover evacuation and repatriation
  • •Join digital nomad Facebook groups for South Africa before arriving
  • •Cape Town is the most popular destination for remote workers
  • •Consider tax implications in both SA and your home country

Critical Skills Work Visa

Work

For professionals with skills on South Africa's Critical Skills List. Uses a points-based system requiring 100 points across qualifications, experience, and employment.

1825d
Duration
ZAR 4,420
— fee
+ZAR 3,000 additional
📍Apply: Embassy
⏱8-12 weeks
🔄Extendable +1825d
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
ZARUSD
Required
Visa application feeDepartment of Home Affairs fee
ZAR 1,520—
VFS Global service feeProcessing and biometrics fee
ZAR 1,550—
SAQA qualification evaluationRequired for foreign qualifications
ZAR 1,350—
Additional (estimated)
Professional body registrationVaries by profession
ZAR 3,000—
Required Total
ZAR 4,420—
+ Additional (estimated)
ZAR 3,000—
Estimated Total
ZAR 7,420—
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.

📋 Requirements

  • •Valid passport with 2 blank pages
  • •Occupation on the Critical Skills List
  • •SAQA evaluation of foreign qualifications
  • •Job offer from verified South African employer
  • •Registration with relevant professional body
  • •Police clearance certificates
  • •Medical and radiological reports
  • •Proof of relevant work experience (5+ years)
  • •Completed form DHA-1738

📝 Application Steps

  1. 1Verify your occupation is on the Critical Skills List
  2. 2Apply for SAQA evaluation of qualifications
  3. 3Register with relevant South African professional body
  4. 4Secure job offer from South African employer
  5. 5Gather all supporting documents
  6. 6Book VFS Global appointment
  7. 7Submit application with all required documents
  8. 8Await decision (8-12 weeks typical)

⚠️ Restrictions

  • •Must work only in the specific occupation listed
  • •Must maintain employment with specified employer
  • •Changing employers requires new application
  • •Must meet 100 points minimum on assessment

💡 Tips

  • •Start SAQA evaluation early as it can take months
  • •Ensure your qualification matches NQF Level 7+ for best points
  • •IT, engineering, and healthcare professions are in high demand
  • •Consider using immigration lawyer for complex cases

Retired Person's Visa

Special ProgramPopular

For retirees with proven monthly income of at least R37,000 from pension, annuity, or investments. Valid up to 4 years and renewable.

1460d
Duration
ZAR 3,070
— fee
+ZAR 2,000 additional
📍Apply: Embassy
⏱8-12 weeks
🔄Extendable +1460d
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
ZARUSD
Required
Visa application feeDepartment of Home Affairs fee
ZAR 1,520—
VFS Global service feeProcessing and biometrics fee
ZAR 1,550—
Additional (estimated)
Chartered accountant certificateTo verify financial requirements
ZAR 2,000—
Required Total
ZAR 3,070—
+ Additional (estimated)
ZAR 2,000—
Estimated Total
ZAR 5,070—
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.

📋 Requirements

  • •Valid passport with 2 blank pages
  • •Proof of monthly income of R37,000+ (pension, annuity, investments)
  • •Bank statements for last 3 months stamped by bank
  • •Chartered accountant certificate confirming financial requirements
  • •Police clearance certificates
  • •Medical report on form DHA-811
  • •Proof of accommodation in South Africa
  • •Marriage certificate if applicable
  • •Completed form DHA-1738

📝 Application Steps

  1. 1Gather proof of guaranteed monthly income of R37,000+
  2. 2Obtain chartered accountant certificate confirming finances
  3. 3Get police clearance from countries of residence
  4. 4Complete medical examination on DHA form
  5. 5Book VFS Global appointment
  6. 6Submit application with all documents
  7. 7Await decision (8-12 weeks)
  8. 8Collect visa or arrange courier delivery

⚠️ Restrictions

  • •Cannot work for South African employers
  • •Cannot conduct own business (unless with work endorsement)
  • •Each spouse must qualify independently
  • •Must maintain income requirement throughout stay

💡 Tips

  • •Income from multiple sources can be combined
  • •Consider tax treaties between SA and your home country
  • •South Africa has no tax on foreign pensions for many countries
  • •Healthcare is affordable but private insurance recommended
  • •Cape Town and Garden Route popular with retirees

General Work Visa

Work

For foreign workers with job offers from South African employers. Requires employer sponsorship and uses a points-based assessment system.

1825d
Duration
ZAR 3,070
— fee
+ZAR 1,350 additional
📍Apply: Embassy
⏱8-12 weeks
🔄Extendable +1825d
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
ZARUSD
Required
Visa application feeDepartment of Home Affairs fee
ZAR 1,520—
VFS Global service feeProcessing and biometrics fee
ZAR 1,550—
Additional (estimated)
SAQA evaluationFor foreign qualifications
ZAR 1,350—
Required Total
ZAR 3,070—
+ Additional (estimated)
ZAR 1,350—
Estimated Total
ZAR 4,420—
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.

📋 Requirements

  • •Valid passport with 2 blank pages
  • •Job offer from South African employer
  • •Employment contract specifying terms and conditions
  • •Employer must be registered with Department of Labour
  • •SAQA evaluation of foreign qualifications
  • •Police clearance certificates
  • •Medical and radiological reports
  • •Proof of qualifications and experience
  • •Completed form DHA-1738

📝 Application Steps

  1. 1Secure job offer from South African employer
  2. 2Ensure employer is in good standing with Department of Labour
  3. 3Apply for SAQA evaluation of qualifications
  4. 4Gather all required documents
  5. 5Book VFS Global appointment
  6. 6Submit application with employer support
  7. 7Await decision (8-12 weeks)

⚠️ Restrictions

  • •Tied to specific employer
  • •Changing jobs requires new visa application
  • •Must submit annual employment confirmation
  • •Employer must demonstrate need for foreign worker

💡 Tips

  • •Start visa process well before intended start date
  • •Ensure employer understands their obligations
  • •Keep copies of all submitted documents
  • •Consider immigration specialist for complex cases

Business Visa

business

For entrepreneurs establishing or investing in a business in South Africa. Requires substantial investment and creates employment for South Africans.

1095d
Duration
ZAR 3,070
— fee
+ZAR 15,000 additional
📍Apply: Embassy
⏱12-16 weeks
🔄Extendable +1095d
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
ZARUSD
Required
Visa application feeDepartment of Home Affairs fee
ZAR 1,520—
VFS Global service feeProcessing and biometrics fee
ZAR 1,550—
Additional (estimated)
Business plan preparationProfessional business plan
ZAR 15,000—
Required Total
ZAR 3,070—
+ Additional (estimated)
ZAR 15,000—
Estimated Total
ZAR 18,070—
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.

📋 Requirements

  • •Valid passport with 2 blank pages
  • •Detailed business plan
  • •Proof of investment capital (R5 million or approved lower amount)
  • •Registration of business with CIPC
  • •Tax clearance certificate
  • •Police clearance certificates
  • •Medical report
  • •Proof of qualifications and business experience
  • •Completed form DHA-1738

📝 Application Steps

  1. 1Develop comprehensive business plan
  2. 2Register business with CIPC (Companies and Intellectual Property Commission)
  3. 3Secure investment capital
  4. 4Obtain tax clearance certificate
  5. 5Gather all supporting documents
  6. 6Book VFS Global appointment
  7. 7Submit application
  8. 8Await decision (12-16 weeks)

⚠️ Restrictions

  • •High investment requirement
  • •Must create employment for South Africans
  • •Business must align with prescribed sectors
  • •Regular reporting requirements

💡 Tips

  • •Consider partnership with local entrepreneur
  • •Research BEE (Black Economic Empowerment) requirements
  • •Certain sectors have lower investment thresholds
  • •Seek professional legal and accounting advice

📊 Quick Facts

CapitalPretoria
CurrencyZAR (R)
LanguageEnglish (11 official languages)
TimezoneUTC+2
Last UpdatedDec 4, 2024

🔗 Official Resources

Immigration BureauEmbassy Website

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Does South Africa have a dedicated digital nomad visa?
Yes, South Africa launched its Digital Nomad Visa (also called Remote Worker Visa) in March 2024, with applications opening in early 2025. It allows remote workers earning at least R650,976 per year (approximately USD 35,700) from foreign sources to live in South Africa for up to 3 years. The visa is specifically designed for those working remotely for foreign employers or clients.
Can I work remotely on a tourist visa in South Africa?
This is a grey area. The tourist visa (Visitor's Visa) is technically for tourism and business meetings, not for employment. While many digital nomads have worked remotely on tourist visas without issues, it's not explicitly permitted. The safest approach for extended stays is to apply for the Digital Nomad Visa, which explicitly authorizes remote work for foreign employers.
What happens if I overstay my visa in South Africa?
Overstaying has serious consequences. If you overstay by less than 30 days, you'll be declared "undesirable" and banned from re-entering for 12 months. Overstaying by more than 30 days results in a 5-year ban. You may also face fines of R2,500-R3,000. Always apply for an extension at least 60 days before your visa expires if you need more time.
Can I extend my tourist visa in South Africa?
Yes, you can extend your 90-day tourist visa once for an additional 90 days (maximum total stay of 180 days). You must apply through VFS Global at least 60 days before your current visa expires. You'll need to provide proof of funds, accommodation, and a return ticket. Processing takes 4-8 weeks, and you can legally stay while the application is pending.
Do I need to register with tax authorities as a digital nomad in South Africa?
It depends on your length of stay. If you stay less than 183 days in a 12-month period, you're generally not considered a tax resident and don't need to register with SARS (South African Revenue Service). However, Digital Nomad Visa holders staying longer than 6 months within a 36-month period must register with SARS. South Africa has tax treaties with many countries to avoid double taxation.
Is health insurance required for visiting South Africa?
For tourist visas, health insurance is recommended but not mandatory. However, for the Digital Nomad Visa, you must show proof of valid international health insurance covering your entire stay. Private healthcare in South Africa is excellent but expensive, while public healthcare has limitations. Most nomads opt for international health insurance like SafetyWing or World Nomads.
Can I open a bank account as a foreigner in South Africa?
Yes, but the type of account depends on your visa. Tourist visa holders can only open non-resident accounts with limited features. Holders of work permits, Digital Nomad Visas, or permanent residence can open full resident accounts. You'll need your passport, proof of address, 3 months of bank statements, and your visa. Major banks include Standard Bank, FNB, Nedbank, and ABSA. Digital banks like TymeBank and Capitec offer easier onboarding.
What are the best cities for digital nomads in South Africa?
Cape Town is by far the most popular choice, offering excellent coworking spaces, fast internet, a vibrant nomad community, stunning scenery, and great cafes. Johannesburg offers a larger business hub with more corporate opportunities. Durban is popular for its beaches and more affordable cost of living. Stellenbosch and Franschhoek in the winelands are emerging options for those seeking a quieter lifestyle.
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Important Disclaimer

Visa requirements can change frequently. This information is provided for general guidance only and should not be considered legal advice. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or immigration authorities before making travel plans. Last updated: December 4, 2024

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