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South Africa Country Guide
Your Complete Guide to Moving, Living & Working in South Africa

Important: This guide provides essential relocation information for individuals and families moving to the Republic of South Africa. Known for its diverse landscapes, major cities, wildlife, strong regional economy and cultural variety, South Africa offers opportunities in sectors such as mining, finance, logistics, technology, higher education, manufacturing and tourism. Visa categories, work permits and residence options can change, so always confirm details with official South African government sources before relocating.

Home To Home Relocations supports clients across Toronto, the GTA and Ontario with international moves to South Africa, including export packing, air/ocean shipping, customs documentation and final delivery to major cities such as Cape Town, Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban, Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha) and Bloemfontein.

1. Before You Move to South Africa

1.1 Visa Types & Temporary Residence

Many foreign nationals require a visa to visit South Africa, and a temporary residence visa for longer stays such as work, study or family joining. A short-stay visa (visitor’s visa) is typically valid for up to 90 days for tourism or business, depending on nationality.

Common longer-stay visa categories include:

  • Critical Skills Work Visa – for occupations listed on South Africa’s Critical Skills List
  • General Work Visa – for applicants with a confirmed local job offer
  • Intra-Company Transfer Work Visa – for employees transferred from a foreign branch to a South African branch
  • Business Visa – for those investing and starting a qualifying business
  • Study Visa – for recognized educational institutions
  • Relative’s Visa – for certain family members of South African citizens or permanent residents
  • Retired Person’s Visa – for retirees meeting financial criteria

Visitors and temporary residents can apply through South African missions abroad or via the Department of Home Affairs and approved online/eVisa channels where applicable.

1.2 Pathways to Permanent Residence

Permanent residence permits may be available for individuals who meet specific criteria, such as holding certain work visas, critical skills, business investment or qualifying family relationships.

1.3 Working in South Africa

South Africa’s economy includes strong sectors in mining, finance, professional services, logistics, agriculture, education and tourism. Work visas are typically linked to a confirmed job offer, specific skills in demand, or intra-company transfers. Critical Skills Work Visas are available for certain occupations where South Africa has skills shortages.

Tip: Employers and applicants should always refer to the latest Critical Skills List and work visa rules when planning a move, as lists and criteria are periodically updated.

1.4 Housing & Accommodation

Housing varies from city apartments and townhouses to suburbs and gated communities. Requirements often include:

  • Passport and visa/permit documentation
  • Proof of income or employment
  • Deposit (commonly 1–2 months’ rent)
  • Signed lease agreement

1.5 Banking & Finances

South Africa uses the South African Rand (ZAR). To open a bank account, you are often asked for:

  • Passport
  • Valid visa or residence permit
  • Proof of address in South Africa
  • Tax number (if applicable) and sometimes an employment letter

1.6 Healthcare & Medical Insurance

South Africa has a two-tier healthcare system with a public sector overseen by the National Department of Health and a large private sector. Many expatriates rely on private medical schemes (health insurance) to access private hospitals and clinics.

Important: Comprehensive private medical insurance is strongly recommended for newcomers, as public facilities can be under pressure and private healthcare costs may be significant without cover.

1.7 Key Documents to Prepare Before Moving

  • Passport (valid beyond your planned stay, with spare pages)
  • Visa or temporary residence approval letter
  • Employment contract or offer letter, where applicable
  • Educational certificates (often need to be evaluated/verified)
  • Marriage and birth certificates for dependants
  • Police clearance certificates if required for your visa type
  • Proof of funds and medical insurance, where required

2. Your First Weeks in South Africa

2.1 Entry, Passport & Visas

On arrival, immigration officials will check your passport, visa (if applicable) and length of stay. Be sure your passport has sufficient validity and blank pages for entry stamps.

2.2 Registration, Documentation & Tax

Depending on your visa category and employer, you may need to:

  • Submit biometrics and collect visa stickers/permits if directed
  • Register with local authorities or professional councils (for regulated professions)
  • Obtain a tax number with the South African Revenue Service (SARS) if you are employed or self-employed

2.3 Opening a Bank Account & Setting Up Services

Once you have a local address and appropriate documentation, you can open a bank account, set up mobile phone contracts, internet and utilities in your name if not handled by your landlord.

3. South Africa at a Glance

3.1 Geography & Regions

South Africa is located at the southern tip of the African continent and is bordered by the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. It has nine provinces, each with distinct landscapes and cities, including the Western Cape, Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, Free State, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, North West and Northern Cape.

3.2 Politics & Economy

South Africa is a constitutional democracy with an active parliament and independent judiciary. The economy is diversified, with major contributions from mining, manufacturing, services, agriculture, tourism and finance.

3.3 Climate & Weather

The climate varies by region: Mediterranean conditions around Cape Town, subtropical weather in Durban and KwaZulu-Natal, and more continental climates in the interior highveld. Summers are generally warm to hot, while winters are mild, with snow only in certain high-altitude areas.

4. Why Many Canadians Choose South Africa

  • Diverse cities such as Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban
  • World-renowned natural attractions and wildlife
  • English widely spoken in business and education
  • Opportunities in education, healthcare, engineering, NGOs and business
  • Comparable time zones for Europe–Africa business links

5. Housing, Cost of Living & Daily Life

South Africa offers a range of lifestyles, from coastal living to big-city high-rises and quiet suburbs. Key cost factors include:

  • Rent or mortgage payments (vary widely by city and neighbourhood)
  • Utilities (electricity, water, internet and security)
  • School fees for private or international schools, where applicable
  • Transport (car ownership, fuel, insurance and public transit where available)
  • Medical scheme contributions and out-of-pocket healthcare costs

6. Transportation & Getting Around

6.1 Domestic Travel

Major cities are connected by domestic flights, intercity buses and road networks. Many expatriates rely on private cars, particularly in Johannesburg and Pretoria.

6.2 Public Transport

Public transport options vary by city and can include:

  • Commuter rail and bus systems in certain metropolitan areas
  • Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) systems in some cities
  • Minibus taxis, which are widely used but not always formalised

6.3 Driving in South Africa

South Africa drives on the left-hand side of the road. If you plan to drive, you may need an international driving permit and then convert to a South African licence if you become a longer-term resident. Road conditions on main routes are generally good, but driving standards and security considerations vary by area.

7. Culture, Lifestyle & Places to Visit

7.1 Everyday Culture

  • South Africa is known as the “Rainbow Nation” with many cultures and 11 official languages
  • English is widely used in business, education and tourism
  • Social life often includes braais (barbecues), outdoor activities and sports
  • Rugby, soccer and cricket are extremely popular

7.2 Popular Cities & Attractions

  • Cape Town: Table Mountain, Waterfront, Cape Peninsula and wine regions
  • Johannesburg & Pretoria: Economic hub, historical sites, cultural districts
  • Durban & KwaZulu-Natal: Warm beaches and subtropical climate
  • Garden Route: Coastal scenery from Mossel Bay to Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha)
  • Kruger National Park & Game Reserves: World-famous wildlife safaris

8. Useful Websites for Newcomers