South Africa

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overview

Welcome to South Africa

South Africa, located at the southern tip of the African continent, is known for its diverse landscapes, wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. Its economy is driven by mining, manufacturing, agriculture, and tourism, with cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg serving as major economic and cultural hubs. The country’s natural beauty, including iconic landmarks like Table Mountain and Kruger National Park, alongside its history of resilience and transformation, make it an attractive destination for expatriates and visitors seeking adventure, history, and opportunity.

overview

South Africa Essentials

National Anthem

Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika

Independence Day

May 31, 1910

Haiko

Table Mountain stands / Rainbow nation celebrates / Lions roam freely

Interesting Tradition

Holds "The Rand Easter Show" with agricultural displays and entertainment

Weirdest Local Superstition

Tokoloshe a small, mischievous spirit

Strangest Law Still on the Books

Ban on the sale of chewing gum

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Come for the history, stay for the future

Come for the diversity, stay for the innovation: South Africa blends rich cultural heritage with dynamic growth opportunities. Life moves between morning safaris in world-renowned reserves and afternoon meetings in Cape Town’s thriving tech hubs, while evenings offer lively arts, music, and culinary experiences. With a booming startup ecosystem and policies that attract global talent, South Africa is becoming an increasingly sought-after destination for professionals seeking to make an impact in both Africa and the world.

overview

Let's go

venture into a land where diversity isn’t just a concept, but the essence of life. Here, every journey invites you to explore breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cultures, and a future full of innovation, where each experience leaves a lasting imprint on your soul.

overview

Welcome to South Africa

Vibrant and diverse country located at the southernmost tip of the African continent. Known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and a history

South Africa isn’t just a country—it’s a vibrant tapestry of cultures and landscapes. Here, time flows between ancient traditions and modern energy, and even a simple safari becomes a deep connection with nature's wonders. This is a land where majestic mountains, golden beaches, and bustling cities come together, creating a dynamic spirit that’s as diverse as its people.

From the iconic Table Mountain in Cape Town to the wildlife-rich savannas of Kruger National Park, South Africa offers a world of adventure and diversity for every traveler. Whether you're drawn to the scenic Garden Route, the historic streets of Johannesburg, or the rolling vineyards of Stellenbosch, you'll find a country that blends breathtaking landscapes with rich cultural heritage. With its vibrant cities, world-class safaris, and warm hospitality, South Africa invites you to explore the Rainbow Nation and experience its extraordinary spirit.

Statistics

Savor the Flavor

Eat

Bunny Chow (curry served in a hollowed-out loaf of bread) - Boerewors (traditional South African sausage)

Drink

Rooibos Tea (herbal tea from South African red bush) - Amarula (cream liqueur made with marula fruit)

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Thirsty?

Beer

Annual consumption (liters per capita)

52.50

Wine

Annual consumption (liters per capita)

3.03

Coffee

Annual consumption (liters per capita)

6.55

Tea

Annual consumption (liters per capita)

0.27

overview

Cultural Tips and Etiquette

#1
Locals are called 'South Africans' and take pride in their diverse cultures, with 11 official languages reflecting the country's multicultural identity.
#2
Greetings are important, and a firm handshake is common, often accompanied by a warm smile.
#3
Family plays a central role in South African society, and gatherings often include extended family members.
#4
It's customary to respect elders and offer them priority in seating or attention during conversations.
#5
South Africans enjoy outdoor activities, and it's common to gather for braais (barbecues) with friends and family, especially on weekends.

overview

South Africa Essentials

Representative Novel

"Disgrace" by J.M. Coetzee.

National Animal

Springbok

National Pasttime

Rugby

National Souvenir

Carved wildlife figurines

National Dish

Bunny Chow

Famous Festival

Cape Town International Jazz Festival

Famous Dance

Kwaito

Famous Music

Pantsula

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Did You Know?

Three Capital Cities: South Africa is unique in having three capital cities, each with a distinct role: Pretoria (administrative), Cape Town (legislative), and Bloemfontein (judicial).

The Cradle of Humankind: South Africa is home to one of the world's richest fossil sites, known as the Cradle of Humankind. It contains evidence of some of the earliest known human ancestors.

Largest Producer of Platinum: South Africa is the world’s largest producer of platinum and a major exporter of gold and diamonds, contributing significantly to its economy.

overview

South Africa’s Key Historical Events

1652

April 2014

Jan van Riebeeck, representing the Dutch East India Company, established a refreshment station at the Cape of Good Hope, marking the beginning of European settlement in South Africa.

1830s–1840s

July 2014

Thousands of Afrikaner farmers (Boers) embarked on the Great Trek, moving away from British-controlled areas to establish independent republics like the Orange Free State and the South African Republic (Transvaal).

1910

February 2015

Four British colonies—Cape Colony, Natal, Transvaal, and the Orange River Colony—united to form the Union of South Africa, under British dominion but with autonomy for white citizens.

1948–1994

March 2015

The National Party implemented apartheid, a system of institutionalized racial segregation and discrimination, which profoundly shaped South African society for decades.

1994

October 2016

Apartheid ended with negotiations between the ANC and the government, leading to the first democratic elections in 1994. Nelson Mandela became the first Black president of South Africa.

MOBILITY

Access South Africa Residency Rights on the GlobalPassport™ Platform 

NO. OF Mobility Assets

4
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MOBILITY

Citizenship Pathways and
Residency Requirements

Citizenship by Birth
Yes
Citizenship by DESCENT
Yes
Citizenship by MARRIAGE
5 years
DUAL Citizenship
Yes
RESIDENCY BY Naturalization
5
PASSPORT VALIDITY
10 years, 5 for children

MOBILITY

Passport Power

Visa Free Countries

96

Performance Class

Emerging Explorer

Passport Grade

C-

Rank

110

Score

57.8

This visa grants access to:

• 26% of the world's population 

• 27% of UNESCO sites 

• 15% of global GDP 

• 41% of the world's land area 

MOBILITY

Visa-free access to:

MOBILITY

Number of American Emigrants to South Africa by Year 

Year
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
South Africa
9,267
7,155
7,087
9,323
7,771
6,220
7429

MOBILITY

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Select up to 3 Mobility Assets
Mobility Asset
Approval Time (est.)
Appointment Availability
Term (i.e. duration)
Minimum Investment
Physical Presence Requirement
Cost of Living
English Usage
Quality of Life
Healthcare Ranking
Passport Power
Visa-free Country Access
Number of American Expats
More Details

Rankings

South Africa's Global Rankings 

South Africa, located at the southern tip of the African continent, is known for its diverse landscapes, wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. Its economy is driven by mining, manufacturing, agriculture, and tourism, with cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg serving as major economic and cultural hubs. The country’s natural beauty, including iconic landmarks like Table Mountain and Kruger National Park, alongside its history of resilience and transformation, make it an attractive destination for expatriates and visitors seeking adventure, history, and opportunity.

Exceptional performance
Standard performance
Needs Improvement
Rankings are based on 2023-2024 Global Indices and Assessments from recognized international organizations. Updated quarterly to reflect the most recent available data
78
Cost of Living
2024
Affordable
57
Quality of Life
2024
Standard
127
Safety
2024
Low
83
Happiness
2024
Average
156
Tax Burden
2024
Substantial Load
9
English Proficiency
2023
Very High Proficiency
56
Rule of Law
2024
Moderate
-
Healthcare System
2024
-
62
Pleasant Climate
2024
Fair

Healthcare

Healthcare Overview

Key Health Indicators

Median Age

64.1

years

Life Expectancy

23.00%

years

Obesity Rate

29.00%

Tobacco Use

12.00%

Sources

Health care Indicators

Health Expenditure

27.7

of GDP

Hospital Beds

2.28

per 1000 people

Doctors

0.81

per 1000 people

Out-of-pocket

8.27%

of total expenditure

Sources

Healthcare

Did you Know?

Universal Healthcare Coverage

South Africa provides universal healthcare coverage through the public healthcare system, which is available to all citizens and legal residents. The government-funded system ensures access to essential healthcare services, though waiting times can be long in public hospitals.

Private Healthcare Sector

South Africa’s private healthcare sector is well-developed, offering high-quality medical services with shorter wait times and access to the latest treatments. Private hospitals and clinics are often the preferred choice for those who can afford private health insurance.

Healthcare for Expats

Expatriates in South Africa are encouraged to have private health insurance, as it provides access to private healthcare facilities. While public healthcare is available, many expats opt for private care to ensure faster and more specialized treatment.

Medical Tourism Hub

South Africa is a popular destination for medical tourism, particularly for procedures like cosmetic surgery, dental work, and orthopedics. The country is known for its advanced medical facilities and affordable healthcare compared to Western countries.

Pharmaceutical Accessibility

Pharmaceuticals are widely available in South Africa, with both local and international brands. The government regulates prices for many essential drugs, ensuring that they are affordable for most citizens, while private healthcare offers a wider range of medication options.

Healthcare

United Healthcare Coverage Service Index (2000 - 2021)

The World Health Organization's United Healthcare Coverage Service Index (2000-2021) data describes the coverage of essential health services, defined as the average coverage of essential services based on tracer interventions that include reproductive, maternal, newborn and child health, infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases and service capacity and access, among the general and the most disadvantaged population.
Source:

Healthcare

South Africa Healthcare Cost Calculator

This calculator helps you compare healthcare expenditures between different countries based on per capita health spending data. The tool provides a straightforward comparison by allowing you to:
1. Select your current location from the dropdown menu
2. Choose a comparison country to see the difference in healthcare costs

The calculator displays two key metrics:
• Healthcare Expense Difference: The absolute dollar amount difference in per capita healthcare spending between the selected countries
• Percentage Difference: The relative difference expressed as a percentage
Please note that these calculations are based on annual per capita health expenditure data, which includes current prices and purchasing power parities (PPP). The figures represent total healthcare spending, encompassing both public and private healthcare expenses. For the most accurate planning and decision-making, please consult with healthcare providers or insurance companies in your target country for specific coverage options and costs.
Source:

cost of living

Cost of Living Overview

South Africa offers a moderate cost of living, with significant variation depending on location and lifestyle. Major cities like Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban tend to be more expensive than rural or smaller towns, but they also provide better access to amenities and opportunities. The country is known for its affordability compared to many Western nations, making it attractive for expatriates and retirees.

Cost of Gasoline

$1.31

per liter

Cost of Meal

$8.42

(Inexpensive Restaurant)

Monthly Rent

$454.74

(1 bedroom, City Center)

Monthly Utilities

$17.63

(85m² Apartment)

Domestic Beer

$2.24

(0.5 liter draught)

VAT Rate

27%

cost of living

South Africa Cost of Living plus Rent Map

cost of living

South Africa Cost of Living Calculator

cost of living

South Africa Rent Calculator

Taxation

Taxation Overview

South Africa taxes its residents on their worldwide income. Non-residents are taxed on South African-sourced income. Progressive tax rates apply from 18% to 45%. The standard VAT rate is 15%. A comprehensive double taxation treaty network exists.

Tax Residency Requirement

91 days

Worldwide Income Taxation

Yes

Higher Rates for Foreign Assets

No

US Double Taxation Treaty

Yes

Personal Income

Progressive tax rate based on income levels

18%-45%

Personal Capital Gains

Flat rate on investment gains

18.00%

Inheritance

Based on inherited amount and relationship

27.00%

Corporate Income

Standard corporate tax rate applied to business profits

21.60%

Corporate Capital Gains

Tax rate applied to capital gains from corporate investments

25.00%

Dividends

Withholding tax rate applied to dividend distributions

20.00%

Interest

Withholding rate interest payment to non-residens

0.00%

Royalties

Withholding tax rate for royalty payments

15.00%

Work Assignment

Foreign individuals are tax residents if ordinarily resident, or physically present for more than 91 days in the tax year and each of the preceding five years with more than 915 days total in those five years.

Overall Ranking

Global position in PWC’c Ease of Paying Taxes ranking

54

Ease of Paying Taxes Score

Overall score based on multiple factors

81.2

Total Tax and Cotribution Rate

TTCR percentage including all mandatory contributtions

29.2
%

Time to Comply

Annual hours required to comply with tax regulations

210
HOURS

Number of Payments

Total number of tax payments required annually

7

Post-filing Index

Score measuring the ease of processes after filing taxes

60.8
%

taxation

South Africa Tax Burden Map

taxation

South Africa Income Tax Calculator

This calculator helps you estimate your income tax obligations based on your personal situation and country of residence. The calculation includes essential tax elements specific to each jurisdiction, such as personal allowances, various types of deductions or tax credits, and progressive tax rates where applicable. The estimation considers multiple key inputs that vary by country, including your annual gross income (in USD), marital status when relevant, number of dependent children, as well as additional factors like medical expenses, educational costs, and retirement contributions.

The calculator provides three main results:
• Total Deductions and/or Tax Credits (based on jurisdiction-specific rules)
• Net Taxable Income (income subject to tax)
• Final Income Tax amount
Please note that these calculations are estimates and can vary significantly depending on specific circumstances, additional income sources, special deductions, and changes in tax regulations across different countries. Some jurisdictions may use tox credits instead of deductions, have different qualifying criteria for dependents, or consider various types of expenses differently. For precise tax planning and compliance, please consult with a qualified tax professional familiar with your jurisdiction's tax laws.
Source:

CLIMATE

Climate Type

Mostly semiarid. subtropical along the east coast; sunny days and cool nights in the interior plateau; Mediterranean climate in the southwest; desert conditions in the northwest.

Average Temperature

18.0 °C

Humidity

68

%

Average Annual Precipitation

464

mm

Rainless Days per Year

248

Best Time to Travel

June-September

Questions?

Frequently Asked Questions About Gaining Residency or Citizenship in South Africa

Find answers to common questions about GlobalPassport™ and our tools guiding you towards residency or citizenship in South Africa.

What is the best time to visit South Africa?

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overview

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