The South African Digital Nomad Visa

The Digital Nomad Visa in South Africa offers an exciting opportunity for remote workers who wish to live in a dynamic, culturally rich environment while maintaining employment with a company outside of South Africa. This visa is designed specifically for those who work independently from a remote office location, offering the freedom to explore South Africa while continuing to meet professional obligations abroad.

With the Digital Nomad Visa, applicants can live and work remotely in South Africa for a period of 36 months. This visa is ideal for consultants, and employees of foreign companies who wish to reside in South Africa while working remotely.

Key Benefits:

• Legal residency in South Africa for up to 36 months.
• Enjoy South Africa’s diverse landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant urban life while working remotely.

Eligibility Requirements:

To qualify for the Digital Nomad Visa, applicants must a minimum gross income threshold of ZAR 650,976.00 and demonstrate that they are employed by a company outside South Africa. Proof of health insurance, accommodation, and sufficient financial means to support yourself during your stay are required.

Why Choose the Digital Nomad Visa?

South Africa’s Digital Nomad Visa allows remote workers to experience the best of both worlds – a dynamic work-life balance in a globally connected environment. Whether you’re drawn to the urban energy of cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg or the stunning natural beauty of South Africa’s landscapes, this visa offers you the flexibility to work remotely while living in one of the world’s most exciting destinations.

Last Updated: 15/10/2024

Eligibility:

Occupation: Must be employed in a remote work position by a recognised foreign employer.
Given this classification, this could also be referred to as the South African Remote Working Visa.
Income Thresholds: Applicants require a minimum annual salary of at least ZAR R650 796.00 (approximately $37,000 USD).
Tax Clearance: If the foreign national is a tax resident of a country that has an active double taxation agreement with South Africa, they must register with the South African Revenue Service (SARS) if they are present in South Africa for more than 183 days within any 12-month period. However, if the foreign national is not a tax resident of such a country, they are required to register with SARS regardless of how long they stay in South Africa.
Medical Insurance: Medical Insurance is NOT Required. The applicant must have a medical certificate however, showing good health.
Criminal Record: Absence of any criminal convictions.
Indicated Visa Validity and Duration: It is indicated to be 3 years, with renewal options.
Dependents: Spouses and dependents may be included on the visa, with additional requirements and fees.

You need the following documents to apply for a South Africa Remote Working Visa:

• Completed Visa Application Form
• Valid Passport with at least two blank pages and valid for 30 days beyond your intended stay
• Proof of Employment
• Proof of Income, such as bank statements or financial records
• Proof of Accommodation in South Africa (rental agreement or hotel booking)
• Medical Report as per immigration requirements
• Travel Insurance covering your stay in South Africa
• Police Clearance Certificate from countries where you’ve resided for over 12 months in the past five years
• Proof of payment of Visa Fees
• Passport-Sized Photographs according to visa application specifications

When applying for a South Africa Remote Working Visa, there are several costs you will need to consider in addition to the visa application fee. These include travel expenses, accommodation, and other related costs as you prepare for your stay in South Africa.

Here is a detailed breakdown of the costs specifically related to the visa application:

• Department of Home Affairs Visa Application Fee:

The standard application fee is R425.

• VFS Fee:

VFS centres around the world charge varying amounts, and payment is generally made via Credit Card.

• VFS Premium Lounge Services (Optional):

For a more expedited and comfortable experience, you can opt for the Premium Lounge Service at an additional cost of R500. This is an optional service.

• Document Translation Costs:

If any of your documents are not in English, they will need to be translated by an accredited service.

• Medical Certificate:

You will be required to provide a medical certificate.

• Police Clearance Certificates:

Police clearance certificates are required from each country where you have resided for 12 months or more in the past five years. Costs vary depending on nationality, with South African police certificates costing R180 when processed through VFS.

Other Potential Costs:

• Flight and Moving Costs: You will need to budget for travel and logistics for any personal belongings you plan to bring.
• Accommodation: Ensure you account for accommodation during your stay in South Africa.
• Integration Costs: This could include initial living expenses, setting up utilities, and any local registrations required upon arrival.

While these are the primary costs associated with the Remote Work Visa, the total expenses will vary depending on individual circumstances. It is highly recommended that you consult with a professional immigration consultant who can provide you with a comprehensive estimate based on current government fees and your personal situation, ensuring you are well-prepared for all necessary expenses.

For more details on the Remote Work Visa requirements, visit our Visa Requirements Guide.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a South Africa Digital Nomad Visa

1. Research the Requirements:

   Before you begin, it’s important to fully understand the eligibility criteria for the South African Remote Working Visa. You must prove remote work for a company outside South Africa or be self-employed, have a stable income that meets the set threshold, and ensure you meet the health and security requirements.

2. Prepare Your Documents:

   Compile the following required documents before you begin the application process:

   • Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least 30 days beyond your intended stay, with two blank pages.
   • Proof of Remote Employment: A letter from your employer confirming remote work.
   • Proof of Income: Applicants must demonstrate that they have sufficient financial means to support themselves while living in South Africa without relying on the local job market. To meet this requirement, you must provide recent bank statements or financial records that show a minimum gross income of ZAR 650,976.00 per annum. This ensures that visa holders can sustain their lifestyle and cover living expenses independently while staying in South Africa as a remote worker.
   • Proof of Accommodation: Details of where you will be staying in South Africa (hotel booking, rental agreement, etc.).
   • Police Clearance Certificates: From all countries you’ve lived in for 12 months or more over the last five years.
   • Medical Report: As required under South African immigration law (these can often be completed during your visa process).
   • Passport-Sized Photographs: Meeting the required specifications.
3. Complete the Application Form:

   Download and complete the South African Digital Nomad Visa application form. This form will need to be filled out carefully and all information must be accurate. You can find the required forms on official government websites or through visa service providers. Some applicants opt to work with immigration specialists to pre-complete and review the forms to avoid errors and delays.

4. Submit Your Application Pack:

   Once your documentation is ready and your application form is completed, you will need to submit the full application pack in person. Depending on your location, you can submit the application at the nearest South African Embassy, Consulate, or at a Visa Facilitation Services (VFS) Centre. It’s important to make an appointment beforehand, and ensure you carry all required original documents and copies as requested.

5. Biometric Submission:

   In most cases, you will be required to submit biometric data (fingerprints, photographs) when submitting your application. Be prepared to attend the visa appointment in person as biometric data cannot be submitted online.

6. Pay the Application Fees:

   During your visa submission, you will be required to pay the visa application fee, which varies by location. If you are submitting through VFS Global, there will be an additional service fee. Payments are generally made by EFT, credit/debit card, or cash, depending on the country.

7. Wait for Your Visa Approval:

   Visa processing times vary, but on average, the South African Digital Nomad Visa is processed within 6-8 weeks. It is recommended to track your application through the embassy or VFS portal. Ensure that you are reachable in case additional documents or interviews are required during processing.

8. Receive Your Visa:

   Once your visa is approved, you will be notified to collect your passport, which will have the visa sticker affixed inside. You can now legally travel to South Africa and live as a digital nomad for the duration of the visa.

9. Arrival in South Africa:

   After receiving your Digital Nomad Visa, ensure you carry all necessary documents when entering South Africa. Upon arrival, you may be asked to present your passport, visa, proof of accommodation, and health insurance. After clearing immigration, you’re ready to enjoy your stay as a remote worker in South Africa!

For detailed advice or support during the application process, consider consulting with an immigration specialist. They can help ensure that you meet all the requirements and avoid common pitfalls.

Disclaimer

At IBN Immigration Solutions, we adhere to Google’s standards for transparency. As a private immigration firm, we follow the regulations outlined in the Immigration Act of South Africa. We are not affiliated with the South African government. Our clients pay for our expertise in handling applications for both temporary and permanent residency. While forms required during the process can be obtained for free at any Department of Home Affairs office, we also provide them as part of our service. Those who prefer to deal directly with the Department of Home Affairs can visit their website at www.dha.gov.za/immigration-services/