If you’re considering a move from the UK to South Africa, you’re far from alone.
South Africa’s stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and lower cost of living make it an appealing destination for UK expats.
Whether you dream of life in cosmopolitan Cape Town, the business hub of Johannesburg, or the laid-back coastal towns along the Garden Route, South Africa offers options to suit every lifestyle.
One of the biggest draws for UK expats is the outdoor lifestyle; world-class beaches and nature reserves to game drives in iconic national parks, there’s no shortage of adventure.
In addition, South Africa’s cost of living is generally lower than in the UK, making property, dining out, and daily expenses more affordable.
The country also has a well-established expat community, especially in areas like Cape Town, Durban, and Pretoria. This can make settling in easier, with support networks already in place.
Add in English as a primary language, and South Africa becomes a natural fit for British families looking for a warmer climate and new opportunities.
Read on to find out how and what you can expect if your move to the “Rainbow Nation”!
A Brief History of South Africa
South Africa’s history is a complex and fascinating journey shaped by ancient cultures, colonial rule, and the struggle for freedom.
The land was first inhabited by indigenous groups such as the San and Khoikhoi, followed by Bantu-speaking tribes who settled across the region.
In 1652, the Dutch East India Company established a refreshment station at Cape of Good Hope, marking the start of European influence.
This was followed by British rule in the early 1800s, triggering tensions between British settlers, the Zulu Kingdom, and Dutch-descended Boers.
The Boer Wars (1880-1881 and 1899-1902) ultimately led to British victory, unifying South Africa under British control.
The 20th century was defined by the rise of apartheid, a system of racial segregation and oppression enforced by the government from 1948.
This era sparked global condemnation and decades of resistance, led by figures like Nelson Mandela.
In 1994, South Africa held its first democratic elections, marking the end of apartheid and Mandela’s election as President.
Today, South Africa is a vibrant, diverse nation and is the most industrialised economy in Africa, with a culturally diverse population of 59.4 million people and 12 official languages
South African Visa Options – What You Need to Know
Before you can start your new life in South Africa, you will need the right visa.
The visa process depends heavily on your reason for moving, whether it’s for work, study, retirement, or starting a business.
Popular options include the Work Visa, Retirement Visa, and Business Visa. For those with job offers, the General Work Visa is a common route.
Alternatively, if you’re investing in a business, the Business Visa requires a minimum investment of around ZAR 5 million (approx. £212,000).
If retirement is your goal, the Retired Person Visa is relatively straightforward, provided you have a steady income from pensions or investments.
The South African Department of Home Affairs provides full visa information and application forms here: https://www.dha.gov.za.
The Global Optimizer has an excellent easy to use guide covering all the visa options for South Africa.
Getting Professional Immigration Help
As visa applications can be complicated, it’s worth seeking professional immigration advice to ensure your application meets all requirements, especially if you plan to work or open a business in South Africa.
With so many immigration companies online, how do you know which ones you can trust?
In the UK, immigration advisers should be registered with the Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC).
Make sure the company specifically deals with South African visas. Immigration rules vary between countries, so working with someone who specialises in South Africa is a huge advantage.
For added peace of mind, visit the official South African High Commission in London website, they list visa requirements and may even suggest trusted advisers.
Thinking of Staying for Good? How to Get South African Citizenship
If you’ve fallen in love with South Africa and want to put down permanent roots, becoming a South African citizen might be your next step.
For UK expats, the process starts with securing permanent residency, this is essential before you can apply for full citizenship.
Once you’ve held permanent residency for five years (or just two years if you’re married to a South African citizen), you can apply for naturalisation.
To qualify, you’ll need to show you have good character, a basic understanding of the responsibilities of citizenship, and proficiency in at least one of South Africa’s 11 official languages.
Compared to places like Australia or the USA, South Africa’s pathway to citizenship is often seen as more accessible, particularly for those who’ve already spent years integrating into the community.
It’s worth noting that South Africa does allow dual citizenship, so you won’t necessarily have to give up your British passport though you’ll need to follow specific rules when applying.
For up-to-date guidance, check the official website of the Department of Home Affairs.
It’s also a good idea to consult an immigration lawyer if you want expert advice tailored to your situation.
GBP to ZAR Exchange Rate
At present, 1 GBP equals approximately 23.67 South African Rand (ZAR).
You can find latest exchange rates via the coinmill.com website.
In recent years, the exchange rate between the British Pound and the South African Rand has seen considerable shifts, largely due to economic instability linked to Brexit and the global effects of the coronavirus pandemic.
If you need to convert GBP into ZAR, it’s essential to keep an eye on live exchange rates. Understanding the latest rates helps you choose the most favourable time to make your transfer.
Why Use an FX (Financial Exchange) Firm?
Currency exchange rates shift constantly, influenced by economic developments, political announcements, and changes in global markets.
This makes the timeframe between placing an offer and finalising your purchase — usually around two to three months especially unpredictable.
Locking in a good rate which can be for a set period, could save you money.
Using a reputable FX company can be particularly useful when sending larger sums of money, such as for property purchases, emigration, or investments in South Africa.
While your bank may offer currency exchange, using a specialist foreign exchange (FX) provider can often secure you a much better deal.
FX firms typically offer more competitive rates and lower fees compared to high street banks.
Many also provide tailored services, such as rate alerts or forward contracts, allowing you to lock in a favourable rate for future transfers.
There are numerous reputable companies to choose from such as Halo Financial.
They are helpful and will explain the whole process to you so you can decide if you are interested in participating.
Cost of Living in South Africa vs UK
The cost of living in South Africa is significantly lower than in the UK, although this depends on your lifestyle and location.
In general, groceries, dining out, and accommodation cost far less, especially outside major cities.
Renting a modern one-bedroom apartment in Cape Town city centre cost around £576 per month, while the same property in London could easily exceed £2,200 – a huge difference.
Utilities such as water, heating and electricity are well over half the cost in South Africa where you can expect to spend around £85 per month compared to the UK’s £240.
Dining out is also far cheaper in SA. You could enjoy a three-course meal for two at a good restaurant for around £30 whereas in the UK the cost rises to around £100.
However, private healthcare and some imported goods can be costly, and salaries in South Africa tend to be lower than in the UK.
It’s worth creating a budget that factors in private medical insurance, schooling (if you have children), and any ongoing financial commitments in the UK.
For an up-to-date cost comparison between the two countries, visit Numbeo.
Paying Your Tax in South Africa
There are very few counties in the world that are tax free havens and South Africa is not one of them.
Compared to the UK’s three-tiered income tax system, South Africa uses a more gradual, multi-bracket structure.
Whether you’re a resident or a non-resident, you’ll pay tax on any income earned within South Africa, with the same rates applying to both.
Here are the current tax brackets for the 2024/2025 tax year:
- Income up to R237,100 – Taxed at 18%
- Income between R237,101 and R370,500 – R42,678 plus 26% on earnings over R237,100
- Income between R370,501 and R512,800 – R77,362 plus 31% on earnings over R370,500
- Income between R512,801 and R673,000 – R121,475 plus 36% on earnings over R512,800
- Income between R673,001 and R857,900 – R179,147 plus 39% on earnings over R673,000
- Income between R857,901 and R1,817,000 – R251,258 plus 41% on earnings over R857,900
- Income over R1,817,001 – R644,489 plus 45% on earnings over R1,817,000
Although South Africa has more tax bands than the UK, the overall tax burden for many individuals is fairly comparable.
One notable difference is Value Added Tax (VAT) — South Africa’s VAT rate stands at 15%, lower than the UK’s current 20%.
For the latest tax information, visit South Africa’s South African Revenue Service (SARS) .
This site is dedicated to all the various taxes you may be subjected to when living in South Africa and well worth exploring.
Drawing Your Pensions in South Africa
If you’ve contributed to the UK state pension, it’s important to notify HMRC and the International Pension Centre when moving to South Africa, to ensure you receive any payments you’re entitled to.
Typically, if you’ve paid at least 10 qualifying years of National Insurance contributions, you’ll be eligible to receive some level of UK state pension, even while living abroad.
South Africa’s pension framework operates across three distinct pillars:
A non-contributory state pension grant, administered by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), which provides financial assistance to lower-income retirees.
Workplace pensions, including employer-sponsored retirement funds and provident funds, which many employees contribute to during their working years.
Private retirement plans and personal savings, offering individuals flexibility in how they save for retirement.
The official retirement age in South Africa is 65, but retirement ages vary significantly across different professions, with many people opting to retire earlier if they have sufficient savings or investments in place. Unlike the UK, South Africa does not have a legally enforced retirement age, meaning your retirement timing will often depend on individual employment contracts.
For further details on state pensions in South Africa, you can visit: https://www.sassa.gov.za.
Births, Deaths & Marriages What UK Expats Need to Know
Having a Baby in South Africa
Many expats choose private healthcare for maternity services, as public hospitals often suffer from underfunding.
To access private care, arranging comprehensive medical aid insurance before leaving the UK is highly recommended.
Without cover, giving birth in a private hospital could cost upwards of R50,000 (approximately £2,050).
If either parent holds South African citizenship or permanent residency, your child will automatically qualify for South African citizenship too.
What Happens if Someone Dies
Should a death occur while living in South Africa, the passing must be officially registered through the Department of Home Affairs (DHA).
On the DHA website, you can find information on the death registration process, required documents, and the necessary forms.
Additionally, families can also choose to register the death with UK authorities, ensuring records are updated back home.
For UK citizens, the Tell Us Once service offers invaluable guidance for handling official processes after a death abroad.
Similar to the UK, once a death has been registered in SA, the funeral arrangements can be made.
Getting Married in South Africa
Applying to be married is not easy as a UK expat, particularly if you have not gained full residency.
Marrying a South African citizen won’t grant you immediate citizenship, but it can assist with future residency.
After marriage, you’ll typically need to live in South Africa for two years before applying for citizenship.
To marry in South Africa, both partners must visit Home Affairs in person to arrange an interview with an immigration officer.
Key documents required include your passport, visa, photos, and proof of eligibility to marry (such as a divorce decree or non-impediment certificate).
For further assistance when arranging a wedding and getting the correct documentation in place, take a look at the Wedin Spire website.
South African Healthcare System Explained
South Africa has a two-tier healthcare system consisting of public and private.
The public system is heavily subsidised, but quality and waiting times can vary significantly.
Many expats choose to take out comprehensive private medical insurance, giving them access to world-class private hospitals and clinics offering quality care when you need it the most.
Some of the top private hospitals in South Africa include:
- Netcare Christiaan Barnard Memorial Hospital, Cape Town
- Mediclinic Sandton, Johannesburg
A family health insurance plan can cost anywhere from £150-£300 per month, depending on coverage.
Companies like Discovery Health and William Russell offer tailored packages for expats.
Schooling in South Africa
South Africa offers a wide range of schooling options, from free public schools to private international schools that follow the British curriculum.
Education in South Africa is compulsory from age 7 to 15, but most children begin school at age 5 or 6. Unlike the UK, the school year runs from mid-January to early December, with terms divided into four quarters.
When it comes to educational quality, South Africa ranked 33rd out of 78 countries in 2022, significantly behind the UK, which placed 2nd.
One of the biggest challenges is the stark divide between public and private schools, with wealthier areas enjoying far better facilities and teaching standards than poorer regions.
For expat families, private and international schools are often the preferred choice.
These schools follow British, American, or IB curriculums, making it easier for children to transition.
However, costs can be steep – top private schools now charge over R190,000 (£8,531) per year.
While this is expensive locally, it’s still more affordable than UK private schools, where fees average £15,000 per year.
For up-to-date information and school comparisons, visit SA Schoolsa useful directory for finding schools across the country.
Key Insights to Finding Employment
Finding a job in South Africa as a UK expat requires careful planning, as the job market can be competitive, and work visa requirements are strict.
However, with the right approach, securing employment is entirely possible. Here’s what you need to know:
Research High-Demand Sectors: UK expats often find job opportunities in finance, IT, engineering, education, healthcare, and tourism. If your skills are on the Critical Skills List, securing a visa and job will be much easier.
Use Job Search Websites – Popular job portals in South Africa include:
Network with Professionals: Many expats secure jobs through networking rather than direct applications. Joining local business forums, LinkedIn groups, and expat communities can help you connect with employers.
Approach International Companies: Many UK-based multinational companies have offices in South Africa. Checking their careers pages can be a good way to land a role with a familiar company.
Consider Remote Work & Freelancing: With flexible work arrangements becoming more common, some expats move to South Africa while working remotely for UK companies.
Final Tip – Start Early
Finding a job in South Africa can take time, especially if visa sponsorship is required. Start applying at least 6 months before your planned move to give yourself enough time to go through the process smoothly.
An Overview of the Property Market
For UK expats planning to settle in South Africa, the property market offers plenty of choice, whether you’re dreaming of a modern city apartment, a spacious family home, or even a rural retreat surrounded by nature.
South Africa’s housing market is incredibly diverse, shaped by its rich geography, varied climate, and cultural mix.
If you’re drawn to the vibrant energy of Cape Town or Johannesburg, you’ll find sleek urban apartments, stylish townhouses, and secure complexes with shared amenities like pools and gyms.
These are popular with expats looking for low maintenance living in central locations close to work, schools, and social hotspots.
Prefer something with more space? In suburban areas and smaller towns, you’ll find generously sized family homes, often with large gardens and even space for a pool, perfect for enjoying the country’s sunny climate.
In more rural or scenic areas, such as the Western Cape’s winelands or KwaZulu-Natal’s coastline, you can expect everything from charming cottages to expansive lifestyle properties set on acres of land.
One key feature of the South African property scene is the widespread use of gated communities and security estates. These private neighbourhoods offer added peace of mind for residents, with controlled access, 24-hour security, and communal facilities like parks and sports courts. They’re a particularly popular option for expat families.
It’s also worth noting that foreigners can buy freehold property in South Africa without restrictions, which makes the process much more straightforward than in some other countries.
Whether you’re after a lock-up-and-go city pad or a countryside escape, South Africa’s property market can cater to your lifestyle, furthermore you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to scenery, from mountain views to coastal panoramas.
For advice tailored to your needs, many expats work with a local estate agent who understands the market, local regulations, and expat-friendly areas.
Finding a Rental Home
Renting a home in the first instance is a good idea when you first arrive in the country.
When renting property in South Africa, it’s always advisable to get a written tenancy agreement that outlines everything from rent amount to maintenance responsibilities.
While verbal agreements are technically legal, they can lead to disputes.
Expect to pay a deposit equal to 1-2 months’ rent, plus a month’s rent upfront.
If you go through an estate agent, you may also be charged admin fees or a holding deposit. Both furnished and unfurnished properties are available, so there’s something to suit every lifestyle and budget.
For UK expats relocating to South Africa, estate agents are the safest and most reliable way to find rental properties.
Reputable estate agents must be registered with the Estate Agency Affairs Board (EAAB), and many are also part of the Institute of Estate Agents of South Africa (IEASA).
Popular national agencies include:
You’ll also find local listings in newspapers or on property websites like Property24 and Private Property.
Rent costs vary significantly. In Cape Town, a three-bedroom home in a sought-after area can cost around R35,000 per month (approx. £1,500), while smaller city apartments average around R6,500 (£280) per month.
Outside of major cities, prices are lower, making South Africa far cheaper than the UK, where comparable properties cost 57% more on average. For updated data, visit Numbeo: https://www.numbeo.com
Buying Your Home
For UK expats considering buying property in South Africa, the process is straightforward, with no major restrictions on foreign ownership.
Both residents and non-residents can legally purchase houses, apartments, or land.
However, non-residents may need to secure a permit under Immigration Act 13 of 2002, which you can review here: https://www.dha.gov.za
Once you have found a property, your offer will usually be made via an estate agent, highly recommended if you’re unfamiliar with local processes.
The agent helps draft a formal offer letter, which is presented to the seller. Once accepted, the offer becomes a binding sale agreement.
You then need to pay a deposit, with conveyancing handled by a lawyer chosen by the seller. However, the buyer typically covers legal fees, which usually range between 0.1% and 1% of the property price.
To complete the purchase, you must register the property at the Deeds Registry, which officially lists you as the new owner.
Expect to pay transfer duty if the property is worth more than 900,000 ZAR. If you’re buying from a developer, VAT may apply instead.
For the latest property listings, expats can browse the same real estate agent websites as listed in the renal section above.
The great news about buying a South African home is the cost and the size.
Homes are generally larger and offer more space both inside and outside. Larger plots of land are available, even in suburban areas.
Outdoor living is a huge part of the culture, so properties often include large patios, swimming pools, and garden spaces designed for entertaining.
Security is a major consideration, so properties often come with high walls, electric fencing, security gates, and alarm systems. Many affluent areas are within gated communities with 24/7 security.
You can expect to pay from £75,000 for a two-bedroom house but the costs will differ depending on the location. For sure your British Pound will go along way in purchasing a sizeable family home.
According to Numbeo, you can expect to pay around 500% less for a home per square metre in South Africa compared to the UK!
Driving – Key Differences UK Expats Should Know
If you’re moving to South Africa, you’ll be pleased to know that driving feels familiar as cars drive on the left-hand side, just like in the UK.
However, speed limits are shown in kilometres per hour (km/h), which might take a little getting used to.
Road conditions vary depending on where you are.
In cities and towns, the roads are generally well-maintained, but rural and remote areas can mean long stretches of open road with limited facilities.
It’s wise to carry extra water, keep your phone fully charged, and plan your route carefully.
It is also advisable to ensure that your fuel tank has sufficient fuel to cover your journey if you are making longer trips.
Petrol stations can sometimes be hundreds of miles apart when you are travelling through the interior of the country.
To legally drive, UK expats need both a valid UK licence and an International Driver’s Permit.
For a full guide to driving rules, visit the Automobile Association of South Africa which offers useful driving tips and safety advice for newcomers to the country.
Bringing Your Car to South Africa
If you’re thinking of shipping your car to South Africa, it’s entirely possible but the process does involve some paperwork and permissions.
It is also quite expensive, in the region of £5000. However, second hand cars are incredibly expensive in South Africa so shipping your own might work out cheaper for you.
You’ll need an authority letter from the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS), plus you’ll have to complete form IE462 (Application for Importing a Second-Hand Vehicle).
Alongside the form, you must submit documents like your permanent residence certificate, your UK car registration papers, and a copy of your passport. Import duties will also apply, handled by SARS (South African Revenue Service).
One important rule to know is that you can’t sell your imported vehicle for at least 24 months after arrival.
While some expats find the process too complex, others successfully navigate the system and bring their trusted vehicles along for the adventure.
Is South Africa Safe?
South Africa is known for its warm hospitality and welcoming people, but it’s important for expats to be aware of the realities around crime.
In certain areas, particularly those affected by poverty and inequality, crime rates are higher, and expats should take sensible precautions.
Urban centres like Johannesburg, Durban, and Cape Town have higher risks of theft and violent crime, especially after dark in central business districts or less affluent neighbourhoods.
That said, many expats live comfortably and safely by staying informed, choosing secure gated accommodation, and being vigilant with personal belongings such as never leaving any valuables inside unattended cars.
Most homes will have burglar proof windows and doors, and many South Africans have dogs, not necessarily vicious dogs, but they are more of a warning of suspicious activity than anything else.
South Africa’s crime rates can sound alarming for newcomers, but understanding the local do’s and don’ts goes a long way in helping you feel safe.
For up-to-date safety advice, visit the UK Government’s South Africa travel page.
Understanding South African Culture
The country is not known as being the “Rainbow Nation” for nothing, it is a veritable melting pot of cultures, customs and traditions.
Moving to South Africa from the UK comes with plenty of familiar comforts, like sharing a language and a love of sport, but the pace of life can feel refreshingly different.
South Africans tend to embrace a more laid-back lifestyle, especially outside the main cities.
It is totally normal for complete strangers to strike up a conversation with you. When you move into your accommodation you will be immediately welcomed by the neighbours.
Work is important, but quality time with family and friends takes priority.
Work attire is relaxed, no tie necessary and the workplace atmosphere is equally relaxed. But don’t make the mistake of thinking people don’t work hard, they certainly do!
After a day at the office, don’t be surprised if colleagues head straight to the braai (barbecue), the beach, or a local park to unwind.
Socialising is a huge part of life here, and neighbours are often genuinely friendly — a warm change for some UK expats used to keeping to themselves.
To learn more about South African customs, traditions, and social etiquette, visit anothertravel.com
Embracing local culture will make it so much easier for you to settle.
Speaking the Local Language
Language in South Africa is wonderfully diverse, with 11 official languages recognised in the Constitution.
These include Zulu, Xhosa, Afrikaans, and English, plus several others.
Thankfully, English is widely spoken, especially in cities, schools, and business settings, so most UK expats find communication easy. Many South Africans also speak indigenous languages in their daily lives.
That said, South African English comes with its own unique flavour.
Learning basic phrases in isiZulu, isiXhosa, or Afrikaans, such as greetings and expressions of gratitude, can enhance communication and show respect for South African culture
You’ll hear plenty of local slang and some words and phrases will be unfamiliar.
Take a look at these:
- Traffic lights are called robots
- Bakkie – pick up truck
- Kiff – cool or great
- Takkies – trainers
- Now-now – soon
- Lekker – great, awesome, tasty
- Howzit – how’s it going
Accents also vary between regions but it’s all part of the cultural charm!
If you want to immerse yourself further, learning a local language can be a fantastic way to connect with your new community.
Options range from private tutors to language schools.
There are some good platforms out there that can teach you basic language skills. Udemy is worth exploring.
Top Expat-Friendly Locations
For UK expats heading to South Africa, choosing where to settle is a big decision and there’s no shortage of fantastic options.
Some destinations stand out for their welcoming communities, outdoor lifestyle, and vibrant cultural scenes, making them ideal for Brits starting a new chapter.
Cape Town. Regularly tops the list. This iconic city offers stunning beaches, world-class restaurants, and the majestic Table Mountain as a backdrop. It’s a blend of natural beauty and urban lifestyle, making it a popular choice for expat families and professionals alike.
Port Elizabeth. Known as the “Friendly City,” Port Elizabeth (often called PE) is a coastal gem located along South Africa’s famed Sunshine Coast. It’s well-loved for its relaxed vibe, affordable living, and some of the best beaches in the country. With a strong expat community and a reputation for being family-friendly, PE offers plenty of outdoor activities like surfing, dolphin spotting, and hiking.
Durban. Famous for its beaches and year-round warm weather, is a favourite for those wanting a more relaxed pace. It’s a dream for surfers and outdoor lovers, with a subtropical climate and the warm Indian Ocean on your doorstep.
The Garden Route. Running along the southern coast, offers a quieter, nature-focused lifestyle. Towns like Knysna and Plettenberg Bay are popular for their coastal charm, outdoor activities, and excellent quality of life.
Pretoria. South Africa’s administrative capital is another expat-friendly destination. It’s known for its leafy suburbs, excellent schools, and a slower pace of life compared to Johannesburg, while still offering good career opportunities.
Constantia. If you’re drawn to Cape Town but want a quieter, more upmarket setting, this could be your ideal spot. Nestled in the lush southern suburbs of Cape Town, famed for its world-class wine estates, spacious homes, and leafy streets. It’s one of the city’s oldest and most affluent areas, offering a peaceful village feel with quick access to both the city centre and beautiful beaches.
South Africa’s Weather
If you’re moving to South Africa from the UK, one of the first things you’ll notice is how dramatically different the weather is which is one of the benefits of emigrating here.
South Africa enjoys plenty of sunshine year-round, with hot summers and mild winters.
Seasons are also flipped compared to the UK, winter runs from June to August, while summer stretches from December to February.
Summers are typically hot and dry, with temperatures often hitting 30°C or higher.
In some inland areas, the heat can soar well above 40°C.
Winters, especially in the Cape, bring rain, cooler weather, and even snow in the mountains.
For a deeper dive into regional climates, visit: https://www.southafrica.net.
Exploring South Africa’s Stunning Beaches
With the weather being so lovely for more of the year it is the ideal opportunity to discover just how stunning the beaches are in South Africa.
The incredible coastline that stretches for over 1,770 miles, boasts beaches that range from wild, unspoiled bays to lively seaside towns.
You’ll find everything from dramatic Atlantic cliffs to warm Indian Ocean waters simply perfect for swimming and surfing.
For new arrivals from the UK, some of the most popular spots to explore include Camps Bay near Cape Town, the family-friendly shores of Durban, and the beautifully remote Coffee Bay in the Eastern Cape.
Whether you’re after peaceful walks, top-notch surf, or vibrant beachside dining, there’s something for everyone.
For a full list of must-visit beaches, check out the Beachatlas guide of the county’s top beaches.
Jaw Dropping Landscapes
You are in for a treat when it comes to landscapes.
The country’s natural beauty is incredibly varied from dramatic mountain ranges to lush vineyards and stunning beaches.
The famous Drakensberg Mountains are perfect for hiking, while the Cederberg region near Cape Town offers dramatic rock formations and quiet retreats.
If you love waterfalls, don’t miss Lisbon Falls on the Panorama Route, plunging 94 metres into a scenic gorge.
Coastal lovers should head to the Dolphin Coast, known for its golden sands and dolphin sightings.
Whether you crave adventure or just want a gorgeous view, South Africa’s scenery won’t disappoint.
For more scenic inspiration follow the link.
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Becoming a SA citizen
In order to become a South African citizen, you must have followed all of the permanent residency steps.
You also need to have spent five years living in the country when you apply for full citizenship.
For spousal application it is a two-year requirement.
Further requirements of all applicants for South African citizenship are more specific to South African culture.
These include the individual must be of sound character, must be proficient in one of South Africa’s official languages and good knowledge of the duties and responsibilities of a South African citizen.
South African citizenship isn’t the most demanding to obtain, with places like Australia and the USA being far more challenging.
The government provides lots of details on everything required to become a citizen
Shipping Your Belongings to South Africa
At Barnes of Lincoln, we know moving to South Africa is an exciting step and the start of a new chapter in an entirely different part of the world.
The next step is deciding whether to ship all your household items, some essentials or start fresh when you arrive.
Getting your household belongings there involves navigating a few customs rules. If you’ve owned and used your household goods for at least six months before your move, you can usually import them duty-free.
With over 45 years of experience in international shipping, Barnes of Lincoln specialise in providing comprehensive international removals services that will make your move to South Africa as seamless as possible.
We can assist and guide you from the packing up of your belonging’s door to door, from exportation to import customs clearance and import regulations.
Whether you are going to utilise a full 20ft container or just plan to send a few items, let us be your go to South African removal company.
Just give us a call and we will book a home removal survey and then you will receive our free of charge no obligation quotation for your move.
Lincoln: 01522 254 262
Newark: 01636 314 232
Email: sales@barnesoflincoln.co.uk
