South Africa is one of the best destinations for digital nomads because of its natural beauty, low cost of living, and friendly locals. This is the kind of place where you can go and forget about the worries of the outside world. One of the best things about South Africa is its incredible visa policy; especially the new digital nomad visa program. This means it’s a great place to escape and have an amazing time.
If you are thinking about packing your bags and moving here, make sure to learn some essentials. Let’s discuss some important things about South Africa’s digital nomad visa and aspects that concern it.
Does South Africa have a Digital Nomad Visa?
As of 2024, South Africa offers a multi-faceted digital nomad visa, perfectly suitable for remote workers. This allows you to work as a remote worker or freelancer while staying in South Africa and working for a foreign company. While most details are not disclosed as of yet, this visa is expected to elevate the local economy and aid the digital nomad community simultaneously. Here are some basic visa requirements:
- Valid passport and travel document
- A completed and filled out BI-84 form
- Proof of payment
- Yellow-fever vaccination certificate
- Two colored passport-photos
- Proof of financial means
- A return ticket
- 2 empty pages on your passport (for entry and departure)
- Documents confirming the purpose of your stay
Fact: it’s best to contact a nearby embassy or consulate to understand the required documents for the new South Africa DNV.
Who can Apply for the South Africa Digital Nomad Visa?
There are a few factors to consider while evaluating your eligibility for this visa. If you fulfill the checklist given below then you can easily get a South African digital nomad visa.
Eligibility requirements
- Foreign remote workers, working outside South Africa and employed in foreign companies
- Freelancers, working for foreign employers and clients
- Eligible foreign nationals who own a business in a foreign country
- Meet the minimum income requirements as defined by the Department of Home Affairs
- Skilled professionals and skilled individuals
- Not associated with a local South African business
How do you apply for a Digital Nomad Visa in South Africa?
The official process is not disclosed as of yet but you can expect it to flow as per the step-by-step guide given below. It will be revealed in the official gazette later on.
- Make an appointment
Firstly, you’ll need to contact the nearest South African embassy in your country of residence. Although you can visit directly too, it is advised to set a time beforehand. This will help you avoid any delays and get the necessary information about the next steps.
- Gather the necessary documents.
Your agent will guide you regarding the required documents while making the appointment. This step requires special attention because the accuracy of your application determines the processing time. In case you aren’t sure about the required documents, keep reading to get a brief overview.
- Fill out the application form.
Now comes one of the most attention-demanding parts of the process. You can easily download the form online and print it before filling it out. Make sure to be extra careful and double-check all of your information.
- Submit
The next step is to show up to your nearest South African embassy or consulate as per your appointment and submit your documents.
- Pay the fee
The South African government charges a standard application fee of R425. Other than that, the embassy cost will vary based on your country of residence.
- Wait for feedback
Once you have completed all the steps, you just need to sit tight and wait for the authorities to process your digital nomad visa application. You’ll most likely receive feedback within 30 days.
- Enter South Africa
You’ll receive a confirmation email if your application is approved. Following that, you’ll need to collect your visa from the South African consulate or embassy and enter South Africa.
How Much Does it Cost?
Since the visa is relatively new, the costs are not known. However, if we consider relevant factors, the visa application fee can be estimated to cost R425. Embassies and visa offices incur additional costs that can differ based on their competence and your home country.
South Africa Digital Nomad Visa Requirements
If you fulfil the eligibility criteria mentioned above then you’re free to apply for a South Africa Digital Nomad Visa. However, these are some of the documentation you’ll need.
Necessary documentation
Take a look at the document checklist below. You are supposed to have the following documents while applying for a South Africa Digital Nomad Visa.
- A valid passport: a passport that will remain valid for the duration of your intended stay and during the time of your application
- Proof of employment: you’ll need this if you’re a foreign remote worker. This is to prove your employment status and show that you are not involved in any local company or local businesses. You can submit letters from foreign employers or employment contracts.
- Proof of income: You need to submit evidence that you are fulfilling the minimum income criteria for eligibility. You can prove it by submitting bank statements, pay slips, or tax documents.
- Proof of Health insurance: a certificate that should prove that your health insurance coverage will remain valid during your stay and cover any and all expenses.
- Criminal record certificate: this certificate can be easily acquired from your local police station.
- Proof of residence: You need to submit proof of accommodation i.e. the place where you intend to stay during your time in South Africa. You can prove it by submitting a lease agreement, rental agreement, and proof of hotel/Airbnb booking.
Financial requirements
The minimum wage requirement for a South African digital nomad visa is $37,500 (minimum annual income). You must submit bank statements portraying the stability of your income and savings.
How Long Does it Take to Get a South Africa Digital Nomad Visa?
Unfortunately, the standard time for the application process is not yet known by the South African government. Generally, you can expect to receive feedback within 6-8 weeks of applying.
However, you should keep in mind that the time will vary based on factors such as the accuracy of your application, the competency of the departments, the amount of burden they are dealing with, and perhaps even some government policies.
Make sure to send a complete and accurate application for it to be processed quickly. You can also pay an extra amount and get expedited service.
Benefits of the South Africa Digital Nomad Visa
Good internet
The best way of describing South Africa’s internet situation is by saying one single word; “developing”. The internet connection here is not the best but it’s definitely improving over time.
The internet speed varies from location to location but several digital nomads have complained that the internet here is not the fastest. You can find moderate and reliable internet at several Airbnbs, restaurants, and cafes but there are no promises about the speed. The load shedding certainly doesn’t help as most places do not have the wifi on inverters.
You can also get local SIM cards at convenience stores nearby and enjoy affordable data packages.
Thriving digital nomad community
South Africa is home to accommodating neighborhoods, reliable Internet connections, a low crime rate, and comfortable working spaces. With cafes and a bustling environment, it is a perfectly adequate place for remote workers and digital nomads. You’ll be able to thrive with fellow digital nomads and interact with like-minded individuals.
Affordable cost of living
Greenback declares Cape Town the cheapest city for expats! The title is well-earned because South Africa lets you afford a high-quality lifestyle on a low budget. You can enjoy a high standard of living on a tight budget.
Rich culture, Natural beauty, and Good Food
South Africa is a vibrant country that is rich in culture, nature, and food. The local culture here is a mix of first-world and third-world cultures that collectively form a vibrant combination. The exciting mix includes Dutch, French, Malay, English, Hindu, and Afrikaner lifestyles. South Africa’s heritage is also depicted by its vibrant culture.
As for the natural beauty, the country is surrounded by natural reserves. There are a ton of stunning landscapes and a scope of outdoor activities for nature lovers. You can engage in hiking, stargazing, and even birdwatching during your time here.
The food here is a perfect representation of its traditional values. The restaurants and cafes are extremely affordable while the variety offered is simply astonishing. You can also get fresh local produce to cook at home.
Do Digital Nomads Pay Tax in South Africa?
Digital nomads who have worked for a period exceeding 6 months in the last 36-month period will be required to pay taxes. Such individuals must register themselves with South African Revenue Services and pay South African taxes on their earnings.
Renew Digital Nomad Visa, South Africa
Another good thing about the South African digital nomad visa is that it has an amazing renewal policy. The visa will be issued for a 1 year period originally but it can be renewed for an additional year after that. You can renew it while being in South Africa and extend your stay.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some other visa options for South Africa?
Some other visa options include business visas, student visas, tourist visas, study visas, residence permits, work permits, and intra-company transfer work visas.
What happens if my South African digital nomad visa is denied?
In the off-chance your digital nomad visa is denied, you can apply for an appeal and re-submit your application. Be sure to fix the problem that led to denial in the first place.
What’s the duration of a South African digital nomad visa?
A South African digital nomad visa is designed to remain valid for a 12-month period. However, you can renew it for another year after that and prolong your stay in the country.
Do EU citizens need a visa to enter South Africa?
EU citizens do not need a visa for South Africa as long as they are staying for less than 90 days. They must also have a valid passport.
Do US citizens require a visa to enter South Africa?
US citizens who plan on staying in South Africa for less than 90 days (for tourism or business purposes) will not require a visa at all.
Final Thoughts
Conclusively, we can say that South Africa deserves all the hype it is getting. This ideal location is packed with opportunities and amenities. Digital nomads and remote workers can expect to have a fulfilling time here, thanks to all the facilities. Everything from its natural beauty and internet connection to architectural history is splendid. You can settle here for an extended period of time, thanks to the digital nomad visa.
This comprehensive guide to the South Africa digital nomad visas contains the latest information about tax policies and renewal criteria. Lastly, We wrap up by answering some of your frequently asked questions. If you have any more queries, feel free to contact us.
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