Last Updated on 16 February 2024 by Brittany
The southernmost country in Africa has officially announced it will welcome remote workers to come and reside with the new South Africa digital nomad visa.
The South African government has missed an important deadline to implement the digital nomad visa. The reason for the delay is the failure to account for remote workers in new immigration laws and reform. We hope the long awaited South Africa digital nomad visa will launch in 2024.
Already a favorable destination amongst digital nomads, especially during the winter months, South Africa is working to attract more foreigners and tourists to enjoy the country. After the effects of travel restrictions, there has been a sharp decline in visitors.
So, the country is turning its focus on digital nomads, who tend to stay in destinations longer than a traditional tourist, therefore better boosting the local economy.
While the news was announced in mid-April, we are still waiting for the final details. We know that the visa will allow digital nomads to live in South Africa for more than 90 days, and we assume it will be a one-year visa term.
Digital nomads granted a six-month visa will not be taxed in South Africa. However, digital nomads staying longer than six months in a 12-month period must register with the South African Revenue Service (SARS) and pay local income tax.
As we wait for the South Africa digital nomad visa to finally become available, digital nomads interested in exploring the area are encouraged to visit!
We will update this article as the government releases more information about the requirements and application process.
What is a Digital Nomad Visa?
A digital nomad visa allows remote workers who are location independent of residing in a foreign country on a temporary residence permit.
In order to be eligible for a digital nomad visa, you must either be employed by or own a company established outside of the country where you hold a visa. You may also be a freelancer or self-employed with clients located outside of the country.
Most digital nomad visas last for one year, but offer options to renew. This means you could potentially live abroad in the same country for two or three years.
South Africa Digital Nomad Visa Requirements
As with every digital nomad visa, there are a set of requirements you must be in order to be eligible to apply. While we are still waiting for more information about the requirements for the South Africa digital nomad visa, this is what we know so far.
- Valid Passport – Your passport must be valid while applying for the visa
- Work Remotely – You must prove that you work remotely through contracts
- Earn $52,870 USD per year – Applicants must earn at least R1 million annually to qualify for the South Africa digital nomad visa
- Health Insurance – You must have health insurance coverage while in South Africa
- Address of Accommodations – You must have a lease or online booking of where you plan to stay in South Africa
We will update this article once more information becomes available.
Steps to Apply
[COMING SOON!]
South Africa for Digital Nomads
How would you like to watch penguins playing on a beach? Or hike up the infamous Table Mountain overlooking Cape Town? Maybe you just want to experience a unique new culture and country with an important history. South Africa is the place for you, then!
Modern cities such as Cape Town and Johannesburg have long welcomed remote workers and digital nomads. With plenty of cafes with free wifi and coworking spaces popping up, youโll find comfortable places to set up your laptop. Itโs important to note that the wifi isnโt always the best in the area, so itโs a good idea to bring a mobile hotspot with you.
If itโs nature and wild animals youโre looking for, then South Africa has it all for you. Hop on a genuine safari and hike some of the most gorgeous trails this world has to offer.
The cost of living in South Africa is also fairly affordable. You can live comfortably on just $2,000 per month, including rent. Youโll also find a large expat community to make friends and grow your network.
Get Help Applying for Digital Nomad Visas
When the South Africa digital nomad visa does become available, it may be overwhelming and confusing to apply for it.
Thatโs where Nomads Embassy can help!
We are partnering with hand-selected lawyers and services to assist you in submitting your documents and application to easily apply for digital nomad visas worldwide.
To stay up to date with the latest digital nomad news, join our newsletter to always know which digital nomad visas are coming.
You can also join the South Africa digital nomad visa waitlist by completing the form above to be the first to know when the visa and Nomads Embassy’s Done-for-You Digital Nomad Visa service is available.