Moving to South Africa – A Complete Emigrating Guide
If you are considering emigrating to South Africa, you must read our guide to know all the details.
It is believed there are over 212,000 British expats living in South Africa.
This number is high for a reason, South Africa has so much to offer!
South Africa is undoubtedly one of the most stunning landscapes in the world, home to every terrain imaginable.
An Ecologically diverse and multicultural country, home to mountains, beaches, forests, and lagoons. South Africa is an outdoor lover’s dream!
A low cost of living, an array of amazing wildlife and a warm climate are just a few more reasons why South Africa has become so popular with escaping Brits.
With English being one of the main languages spoken in South Africa, ex-pats have no need to worry about day-to-day language barriers.
Officially South Africa has 11 national languages. The National Anthem is sung in five of them, Afrikaans, English, Zulu, Xhosa, and Southern Sotho.
In this article, you will find the latest information relating to moving to South Africa and why you should seriously consider it.
If you are one of those individuals, here is our guide to help you get moving to the marvellous Rainbow Nation!
Before Setting Off
Always check it is safe to travel to South Africa before heading off. Image credit: Pixabay
When travelling anywhere, our first piece of advice is to check the current travel guidelines issued by the UK government.
Though Covid is no longer the threat it once was, it is still advisable to double-check travel advice regarding the pandemic.
Due to the vast landscapes present in South Africa, natural disasters and other dangerous events are not unlikely.
It is also important to understand the unrest in the history of South Africa before moving to the country.
This is unfortunately an important part of the country’s identity.
It is of paramount importance that you keep up to date with the current situation in the areas of South Africa that you are planning on moving to.
This shouldn’t put you off however, you couldn’t find friendlier people if you tried!
Short Term Permits
Aside from Covid, here are some general rules to bear in mind when relocating to South Africa.
As a British Citizen, if you are simply visiting South Africa, all you need is a passport that has 6 months of validity from the day you arrive.
The great thing about SA is that you can visit for any purpose for up to 90 days without a visa.
90 days is more than enough time to thoroughly investigate the country and check out what life is like there before you fully commit to emigrating.
For stays exceeding 90 days, you will need a temporary residence permit.
The permit will allow you to live and work in South Africa from 3 months up to 3 years.
If you are interested in emigrating to the country, you can apply for this permit from your closest South African embassy.
In total there are twelve different types of temporary residence permits, each accommodating different groups.
- The most relevant permits for ex-pats are:
- Business permits for people looking to invest in South African businesses or set up a new business in the country themselves.
- General work permits are popular with people who have general qualifications looking to work in South Africa – this type of permit will apply to many.
- Critical skills work visas for individuals with skills that are regarded as critical or outstanding by the South African government.
- Study permits for those wishing to study at any level in South Africa.
It is important to organise any permits before embarking on your trip, this helps to avoid any possible confusion.
Permanent Residency and Visas
The next stepping stone on your journey is becoming a permanent resident of the country.
Applying for residency can be a lengthy and somewhat costly process, and this is why it is imperative to have all your proverbial ducks in a row before starting the journey towards South African residency.
Ex-pats have access to several different types of permanent residency.
Most notable of these are:
- Family members permit for those who are biological relatives of South African citizens.
- Spousal/ life partner permits are granted to married couples where one in the relationship is a South African citizen.
- Five years continuous work permits are granted to those who have already lived and worked in South Africa for 5 years.
- Critical visa permit. These permits are available to those who are considered to have ‘exceptional skills’ by the South African government. These can last between one and five years and if the holder has a spouse, they too can access a visa for the duration of the permit.
- Business Visa. Those wishing to start a business in South Africa, and subsequently bolster the local economy, can apply for a business visa.
- Retirement permits for those looking to spend their retirement in South Africa.
When applying for any of these residencies, you will have to provide certain legal documents.
These include passport photographs, a valid passport, birth certificate, a medical certificate, a police record check from the past 6 months and a marriage certificate if you have one.
To make this somewhat arduous process as quick as possible, it is advisable that you are well prepared beforehand, ensuring you have access to all the relevant documentation.
Becoming a Citizen
There are a number of ways to become a South African citizen. Image credit: Pexels
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.
Taking Your Pets
There are several important steps to follow when bringing your pets to South Africa. Image credit: Unsplash
Bringing animals into South Africa is possible if you follow all the requirements for importing pets here.
Among some of the requirements are:
- Make sure your pet has a microchip.
- You must receive a veterinary certificate from your vet stating that your pet is healthy and fit to fly.
- Proof of rabies vaccination will also be needed before you arrive.
- Dogs and cats entering South Africa must enter with a veterinary import permit.
For further advice and information about how to import your pet visit Pets2Fly.
Driving in South Africa
If you are thinking of living in South Africa, you will find driving a car is not all that different from the UK.
Just like home, cars drive on the left-hand side of the road, a relief for many.
It may take some time to become accustomed to the speed limits which are set in Kilometres per hour (km).
The terrain can be a challenge at times.
Some more remote areas have long strait roads with little in between. Always make sure you carry a few bottles of water with you and that your phone is fully charged.
Overall, driving rules and conditions are far easier to adapt to than in many other countries.
- It is important to note that you will have to obtain an International Driver’s Permit as well as your British driving license.
- So, make sure you have everything in order before driving anywhere in South Africa.
- Speed limits in South Africa are generally 60km/h (37mph) in towns and built-up areas, 100km/h (62mph approx) in rural areas and 120km/h (75mph approx) on motorways.
- Everyone in the car must wear a seatbelt, and children under the age of 12 must sit in the rear with proper restraints.
These are just a few of the legal requirements, however, there are more.
It is advisable to check before you try to drive.
Importing Your Car
It is entirely possible to import your car to South Africa.
As with anything you wish to import there are regulations and procedures to follow.
- You must be granted an authority letter from the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS).
- Complete the ‘Application for the importation of a second hand or used vehicle’ form (form IE462). You can download a copy of the form HERE
- Submit a copy of your permanent SA residence certificate; foreign passport; and foreign car registration certificate.
- Wait for the application process to be completed. Customs duties will need to be paid to the South African Revenue Service (SARS).
- It is also important to note that you cannot sell your imported car in South Africa until you have lived there for a minimum of 24 months.
The cost and complexity of this process often deter many from bringing their car with them. Even so, plenty of people do manage to traverse these complexities and take their motor cars with them.
Population
source: tradingeconomics.com
The current population of South Africa in 2023 is 61,020,221, a 1% increase from 2023.
This has risen significantly in the last 10 years, with South Africa ranking number 24 in the list of countries by population.
While Johannesburg is the largest city in South Africa, with a population of around 4.5 million residents, it is not the country’s capital city.
Unusually, South Africa actually has three separate capital cities: Pretoria, Bloemfontein and Cape Town.
Each of these functions as the seat of a different branch of government.
Pretoria is the location of the administrative branch of government. An intellectual and research hub, the city is home to three universities and has a population of 741,651 residents.
Bloemfontein is the judicial capital of South Africa and is the location of the Supreme Court of Appeal of South Africa.
The city has a population of around 520,000 residents.
South Africa’s third capital is the coastal city of Cape Town, the seat of the Parliament of South Africa and the country’s legislative capital.
Cape Town is home to 433,688 residents in the city and more than 4.9 million in the metropolitan area!
GBP to ZAR Exchange Rate
Currency data courtesy coinmill.com
Due to economic uncertainty surrounding Brexit and the global impact of the coronavirus, the value of the GBP has fluctuated against the Rand drastically in recent years.
When transferring from GBP to ZAR, always check the current exchange rates.
This will inform you of the best time for you to change up your money.
Crime Rates
Whilst South Africa is known for its extremely friendly culture, it is important to highlight the current crime rate in the country.
In some areas, poverty and crime are rife, which affects the lives of its citizens and businesses.
The national theft and murder rates are on the increase and have been for some years.
According to the ISS, South Africa’s murder rate in 2022 was the second highest in the world for countries with reliable crime data, with only Jamaica (52.98 murders per 100,000) being worse.
Although the country has come a very long way, tensions still exist, it is important to understand the history of the country and which areas to be cautious in.
You must always remain vigilant and in particular if you are in or near the central business districts of major cities after dark where there is a higher risk of violent crime.
Births
You may wish to opt for private healthcare when giving birth in South Africa. Image credit: Pexels
Public health services in South Africa are infamously underfunded, and most ex-pats opt for private healthcare insurance.
It is well worth arranging your insurance cover before you leave the UK so that you are covered from the get-go.
If you don’t have medical aid coverage in South Africa but wish to give birth at a private hospital, typically, you need to be prepared for an average cost of R45,000 upward (£1800).
If you or your partner is a South African citizen or either of you is a permanent resident of the country, your child will automatically be given South African citizenship.
Deaths
Unfortunately, people pass away, this doesn’t discriminate and can happen anywhere at any time.
In the untimely event that someone dies while abroad, the death must be registered with the local authorities in the country.
You will also be able to register the death with UK authorities.
The best way to begin the process of dealing with a loved one passing away is to contact Tell Us Once; they will help guide you through the procedures.
Marriages
Married couple. Image credit: Pixabay
The process of relocating to South Africa from the UK, whilst relatively straightforward compared to moving to certain other countries, is certainly not easy.
The common belief that getting married to someone instantly gives you access to that country isn’t totally true.
It can help but it’s a little more complicated, with a two-year wait until become a citizen.
If you are marrying a South African citizen, there are certain rules that need to be followed.
Both individuals will need to appear in person (with the correct documentation) at a Home Affairs Office to make an appointment with the immigration interviewing officer
The documentation will be verified to secure your Interview date.
Once the interview has been completed, an Immigration Report will be drawn up and submitted to the marriage section.
Non-South African citizens will be required to present the following documents:
- A copy of the front page of your passport.
- A copy of the Visa Page in your passport.
- 3 x ID photos.
- If you have been previously married, Home Affairs will require a copy of the decree of divorce/death certificate.
- A letter of non-impediment (certificate from your country of citizenship confirming freedom to marry.
Working in South Africa
Computer on work desk. Image credit: Pixabay
The ease with which you can obtain a job is dependent on what type of visa or permit you have acquired.
South Africa has a variety of jobs in different sectors, especially for skilled workers, so finding employment here is indeed possible.
Historically, South Africa’s economy has been focused on agriculture and mining.
However, this has diversified since the turn of the millennium, the focus has now shifted.
Today, the South African economy is primarily driven by industry (mining and automobiles), agriculture, and services (tourism).
Nearly 90% of the country’s exports come from these sectors.
The economy of South Africa depends largely on its mining sector, which accounts for up to 9% of the nation’s gross domestic product (GDP).
The future of the Rainbow Nation’s economy is very exciting, with the main aim being growth in technology, finance, and e-commerce services.
Such a range of adaptation and growth is very exciting for prospective employees as there is certain to be demand for ex-pat workers within these specific sectors.
It is advisable to obtain employment prior to your move.
If you’re looking for work, make sure to visit Pnet and other sites like it.
Here you will be able to see if your skills are in demand and hopefully land the perfect job for you.
Taxes
Unlike the UK’s three-banded tax system, South Africa has more incremental tax brackets.
Non-residents are taxed on their South African sourced income. The same rates of tax apply to both residents and non-residents.
- R1 – R237,100 18% of taxable income
- R237,101 – 370,500 R42,678 + 26% of taxable income above R237,100
- R370,501 – 512,800 R77,362 + 31% of taxable income above R370,500
- R512,801 – 673,000 R121,475 + 36% of taxable income above R512,800
- R673,001 – 857,900 R19,147 + 39% of taxable income above R673,000
- R857,901 – 1,817,000 R251,258 + 41% of taxable income above R857,900
- R1,817,001 and above R644,489 + 45% of taxable income above R1,817,000
Despite having more brackets, the levels of tax paid are very similar to the UK, so there shouldn’t be any major changes.
VAT (or GST in South Africa) is also slightly less at 15% compared to 20% in the UK.
Pensions
If you’ve built up a state pension in the UK, it’s essential to inform the relevant authorities.
You should be able to claim a UK pension if you have paid enough UK National Insurance to qualify.
The South African pension system is based on a three-pillar system.
A non-contributory established South African Social Security Agency grant provided to most pensioners.
Various insurance-based employee and company pensions and provident funds.
As well as private pensions and insurance arrangements.
The official retirement age in South Africa is 65 years of age but many individuals retire a lot younger than this with the right infrastructure in place.
In reality, there is no employment retirement age prescribed by law in South Africa, however, depending on your profession, many employers have set retirement ages for their employees.
Social Security System
If you currently receive benefits, then it is likely you will not be able to receive them after moving abroad.
Income-related benefits will be void if you are out of the country for more than four weeks at a time.
In South Africa, Social Security payments and benefits are primarily handled by the South African Social Security Agency, known as SASSA.
The amount of social security benefits you can claim is directly linked to your contribution. You earn one credit for every six days that you have worked.
Ex-pats are only able to access social security benefits in South Africa if they become South African citizens or take up permanent residence.
Both of these situations have been discussed earlier in this article.
Buying Property in South Africa
When compared to the UK, buying a house in South Africa is incredibly cheap.
Due to there being so much more land, homes are generally built on one level, sit on plots with large gardens and even moderate earners have swimming pools.
Whether you’re looking for a city apartment or a family home in the suburbs, the process of buying a house in South Africa is relatively straightforward, if you have a big enough downpayment.
There are no restrictions on ex-pats buying properties in South Africa, but you will need to get your head around how the system differs from your home country and the fees involved.
The average cost of a 3-bedroom house covering an area of 146 square metres is slightly under R2 million (£89,000).
According to Numbeo the cost-of-living comparison website, per square metre, homes in South Africa are 581.3% cheaper when compared to the UK!
Renting Property
South Africa has an extremely lively rental market, with flats, townhouses, and a range of other properties available.
As with buying a home, the cost of renting is very reasonable, especially when compared to those in most other Western countries.
It is easiest to find a property in the autumn and winter, particularly between May and September.
A ‘furbished’ property will be equipped with pretty much everything you would need.
Unfurnished properties will generally include an oven and other white goods, but no more than this.
The average cost of renting a one-bed flat in South Africa is currently 6,204.42 Rands (£259.18), which is significantly lower than the £877.70 you would pay in the UK!
Cultural Differences
South African Culture may seem rather different to the UK. Image credit: Unsplash
Whilst there are certainly lots of similarities between the UK and South Africa, most notably the language, there are also some differences to consider.
Unlike in the UK where life seems to fly by in a busy whirl, South African culture is far more relaxed.
You will enjoy a much better balance between work life and home life, one of the really appealing aspects of South African living.
Once you return home from work, it is common to relax at the beach, socialise with the neighbours and try to forget about work!
Language Barriers
Different letters and symbols. Image credit: Unsplash
South Africa’s Constitution recognises 11 official languages: Sepedi (also known as Sesotho sa Leboa), Sesotho, Setswana, siSwati, Tshivenda, Xitsonga, Afrikaans, English, isiNdebele, isiXhosa and isiZulu
However, you won’t need to learn them all.
Whilst English is only the mother tongue of 9.6% of South African citizens, it is taught in all schools as a requirement to pass high school exams and most people speak it.
Some things have different names such as traffic lights. In SA they are known as robots.
There are various other dialect differences between the English being spoken.
But there is also a massive difference within regions of the UK itself, so this shouldn’t be too significant of a problem.
If you have the desire to learn one of the official languages, there are a multitude of places you can take classes.
Cost of Living in South Africa
South Africa is a much more affordable country to live in than most European, Asian and North American countries.
The cost of living in major cities when compared to London is quite significant as almost everything is cheaper in South Africa compared to the UK.
As an example:
You will pay an average of £29.24 for a mid-range meal for two in a South African restaurant compared to £60 at home.
When you are doing your grocery shop there is also a marked difference.
Furthermore, a food shop including milk, bread, eggs and cheese is an average of 101.2% less expensive in SA!
Public transport is half that of the UK at £1.25 for a one way ticket and a litre of fuel is just over £0.97 in SA compared to £1.54 in the UK.
Utilities – Electricity, heating and water are all around a third cheaper.
Clothing and footwear are also much less expensive in South Africa.
Considering these drastic differences, you are in for a nice surprise when you pay your bills after moving to South Africa.
Quality of Life
It is not uncommon for South Africans to move to other countries, only to end up moving back to South Africa. This happens very often to those who are planning a family.
One of the biggest reasons for South Africans moving back to South Africa is that the quality of life in South Africa is unbeatable.
A survey conducted by HSBC revealed that 62% of ex-pats who have moved to South Africa have seen an improvement in their quality of life.
Over 18,000 ex-pats were interviewed for the survey, with over 55% now saying that can see themselves staying in South Africa for over 20 years!
Aside from it being a chap place to live, other notable reasons for this improvement in quality of life are of course the weather but also the colourful culture.
The survey also shows that ex-pats in South Africa take part in more voluntary work.
Ex-pats also take part more in local communities since moving here than those who moved to other countries!
Healthcare System
Private healthcare is the go-to choice for many expats. Image credit: Pixabay
Unlike the UK’s centralised public health care system, the NHS, South Africa has two services working side by side.
The public healthcare system in South Africa, as previously mentioned, is mostly underfunded, with lots of people waiting for more affordable treatment. Hospitals are overcrowded and standards are low.
The second, private system, is targeted mainly at the middle and upper classes and charges much higher prices but supplies a better service ad definitely worth investing in.
It is very common for ex-pats to obtain their treatment from completely private hospitals.
Johannesburg offers some of the best healthcare across the whole of Africa.
Again, it is important to remember private healthcare is extremely expensive, so adequate insurance is an absolute must!
Education System
Schooling in South Africa is compulsory and legally begins at age 7, however, most students begin school at age 5 or 6, finishing when students are 18 unless they wish to pursue further studies.
Unlike many countries where schools are in session from summer to summer, South African schools are open from mid-January to early December.
South Africa was ranked 33 out of 78 countries in 2022 for its education standards. The UK was ranked at number 2.
The country has one of the most unequal school systems in the world. Children in the top 200 schools achieve more distinctions in mathematics than children in the next 6,600 schools combined.
These stats show that there are some major failures of the educational system, which are only now beginning to be addressed.
With such a low quality of education, it is very important to understand what the best options are for your children.
Private schooling is particularly popular with ex-pats. However, this is not always cheap, and prices are rising.
All schools in the top 10 now cost more than R174,000 per year (£7,813) and two have broken the R190,000 (£8531) barrier.
Although expensive by SA standards, private school education is much less expensive than in the UK where you need to budget £15,000 per year.
Expat Hotspots
South Africa has many locations that are very popular amongst ex-pats, all with lots to offer!
Arguably, Cape Town is the most popular location and it’s no wonder, it is one of the most beautiful cities in the world!
The city enjoys picturesque beaches, stunning views, world-renowned restaurants, and wines and some of the best shopping in SA.
Moving to Cape Town means endless adventure in the beautiful South African outdoors.
Another favourite location for ex-pats is Johannesburg.
Jo’burg is South Africa’s largest city and its economic centre.
With an array of different cultures, the city is ahead of its time and has become popular with those accustomed to an urban lifestyle.
Durban is a popular location with beach-loving ex-pats.
The dazzling seaside locations and huge waves make it a hotspot for surfers as well as being home to South Africa’s largest port.
A Fresh Start
Where better for a fresh start than somewhere halfway across the world?
South Africa is emerging as a brilliant destination for expats to relocate to.
Offering an abundance of land; beautiful climate and picture-perfect landscapes wherever you go.
So, if you’re looking for a new job, a change of scenery or some more adventure, South Africa is for you.
Making Friends in South Africa
Friendship. Image credit: Pixabay
Depending on which city you choose to call your new home will directly impact how easy it is to expand your friendship groups.
As general rule, South Africa is extremely friendly and making new companions shouldn’t be too much of as struggle if you are happy to put some effort in!
Johannesburg, being the most urban region in the country, is a little more cliquey.
This doesn’t mean there isn’t anyone for you here, it may simply mean joining a site like Meetup.com.
Sites like this assist expats with meeting like-minded people.
Family Life
Family on the beach at sunset. Image credit: Unsplash
Moving abroad with a family is a very big decision.
It is thus very important to access the services available for you and your family.
If you are moving to South Africa with children, you may need to find a childcare service provider.
Childcare is supplied either privately, state-funded or by community groups.
Compulsory education doesn’t begin until aged seven, however, grade reception for children aged up to seven supplies a fantastic education standard a younger family.
Lessons include mathematics, life skills, technology, and languages.
You can be sure that if you are emigrating to South Africa with your family there is fantastic childcare provision for all ages!
Using Public Transport in South Africa
South Africa has an excellent travel infrastructure which includes 15 regional airports, numerous bus companies with routes all around the country, as well as a terrific train network.
Whilst travelling by train is one of the slower options, it is very comfortable (1st class is advisable) it offers the opportunity to indulge in the spectacular views across the country.
Coaches are the most affordable way to travel, most are fitted with toilets and air conditioning, both very necessary.
As an example, you can get around the centre of Cape Town for as little as R6.40 (About 30p in English currency), based on travel from Adderley to V&A Waterfront outside of peak hours.
Prices are dependent on the distance you travel.
Watching Sports
South Africa is well known for its extremely high level of sports.
Although South Africans love most sports including football and cricket, the national sport of South Africa is Rugby union.
You might well have heard of the Springboks, South Africa’s national rugby union team: they are the main reason for the sport being this popular in the country.
You can enjoy live rugby in locations across the country, with tickets readily available, you certainly won’t be disappointed by the fantastic atmosphere, a variable family affair.
Football is also popular with the country having hosted the 2010 World Cup. You may remember the iconic sound of the tournament…the dreaded vuvuzela!
Playing Sports
Rugby is extremely popular in South Africa. Image credit: Unsplash
As previously mentioned, Rugby, Football, and cricket are certainly the most popular sports in South Africa, but there are many more.
Sport is taught from a young age and most children attend extracurricular sporting activities after school.
Sports day at school is a very special occasion and teams are avidly supported and all children taking part.
If you are interested in playing sport, there are endless clubs you can join at all levels not just for school-aged children.
If these sports aren’t your cup of tea, the Rainbow Nation is also world-renowned for its spectacular Golf courses!
There is a real range of courses ideal for newbies or experienced golfers, for more ideas check out some of the best locations here.
There is also a great network of gyms for those keen on staying fit when emigrating to South Africa.
Explore the Wildlife & Safaris
South Africa is teeming with wildlife you would never find in the UK! Image credit: Pixabay
One of the first things spring to mind when you think of South Africa is undeniably “Safari”.
There is an array of astonishing wildlife to see across the country.
Much of this wildlife will be unlike anything many ex-pats have ever seen, at least in the wild.
South Africa is home to the ‘Big Five’ which consists of the elephant, buffalo, leopard, lion and rhino.
You can also find over 300 other mammals across the Rainbow Nation, including giraffes, zebras and cheetahs.
Be sure to take part in an organised safari tour or a one-on-one (guided) animal experience for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!
Weather & Climate in South Africa
The top reason ex-pats and tourists are drawn to South Africa, the lovely weather here will certainly be a welcome change for many UK residents!
One very different aspect of the climate you will notice is the seasons which are totally opposite to the UK.
Winter in South Africa arrives from June to August, you can expect mostly dry weather and cooler temperatures, there is often Snow in the mountainous regions and lots of rain in the Cape.
Summer in South Africa is sizzling, temperatures of over 30°C are common and can rise to well over 40°C in some of the hotter areas.
Beaches
North Beach, Durban, South Africa. Image credit: Unsplash
South Africa’s beaches are undoubtedly some of the most beautiful in the world.
The country’s coastline stretches for more than 1,770 miles, from the desert border with Namibia on the Atlantic (western) coast southwards around the tip of Africa and then northeast to the border with Mozambique on the Indian Ocean.
With 8 of South Africa’s beaches ranked in the top 50 beaches in the whole of the African continent, there is sure to be one near you.
Coffee Bay on the Eastern Cape is one of the most popular beaches, scoring a perfect 10 out of 10 for remoteness, beauty, and water quality!
This remote seaside town offers the perfect location for those looking for a well-deserved break, with spectacular walks, great fishing and some cosy bars and restaurants.
For a list of the top 19 beaches to visit in South Africa visit the Lonely Planet guide.
Stunning Landscape
Some of the landscapes in South Africa are breathtaking. Image credit: Pixabay
South Africa sits at the southernmost point of the African continent.
Within this vast and diverse area are some of the continent’s most spectacular landscapes.
From the Indian Ocean beaches in the east to the desert coasts of the west, and from the beautiful winelands around Cape Town to the jagged peaks of the Drakensberg, South Africa has some amazing scenic sights.
Located only two hours outside of Cape Town, The Cederberg Mountains offer a spectacular retreat from modern life.
The Lisbon Falls are the highest waterfalls in the Mpumalanga province towering 94 metres (308 feet) high and are found on the Panorama Route just north of Graskop. The Falls crash down into a beautiful gorge and is a must-see attraction when in the area.
The Dolphin Coast starts at the Tongaat River and ends in Zinkwazi Beach and includes popular holiday towns like Ballito, Umdloti and Salt Rock. This part of KwaZulu-Natal got its name due to the large schools of dolphins that frequent its waters.
These amazing places are just the tip of the iceberg as far as South Africa’s epic scenery goes.
To find out about even more stunning locations to visit when emigrating to South Africa, click here.
Nearby Destinations
Living in a new part of the world will mean a whole host of new holiday destinations.
Domestic holidays are extremely popular in South Africa, with the most sought-after holiday destination being the beautiful coastal Durban.
Whilst there is easy access to the rest of Africa, the most popular tourist destinations for South African citizens outside the country are the United Kingdom, the USA, France and Thailand!
Whatever your plans, make sure either your British passport will not expire anytime soon, or obtain a South African passport through citizenship.
Closer Than You Think
Globe showing Europe. Image credit: Unsplash
Whilst it is not the shortest flight ever, there are certainly far worse flights for those emigrating from the UK (Australia, we’re looking at you!).
The shortest flight time you can expect is around 11 hours. Though still quite long, flights are direct and choosing a night flight will make it more manageable. In fact, most flights from the UK to SA are overnight.
The cost of flights to South Africa is variable, booking well in advance may help shave some of the cost off.
Again, be sure to stay up to date with the latest travel guideline when moving to South Africa.
The global pandemic means that rules are often changing, so staying up to date will certainly go a long way to avoiding any unwanted surprises.
It is a good idea to make time and visit the country for at least a few weeks before fully moving. That way if you don’t like it, you can simply fly back.
Are you ready to move to South Africa from the UK?
Moving abroad is stressful for all involved. That’s why White & Company are here to help your move to South Africa be smooth and stress-free.
Over the years, White & Company has positioned itself as the international removals firm of choice for removals worldwide.
Our experience is second to none. As members of BAR, FIDI and OMNI, White & Company have been relocating people to destinations worldwide for 145 years.
Our experienced teams located across the UK will pack and prepare your valuable, fragile and bulky furniture ready for export
We have branch depots located across the UK that can pack and prepare your valuable, fragile and bulky furniture ready for export.
To find out more about how we could get your dream move underway, don’t hesitate to give us a call today.
Alternatively, fill out a quick quote form or chat with our Bot and we’ll get in touch with you straight away.
Max is a seasoned writer and blogger in the real estate and home moving sectors, as well as a knowledgeable source of information for expatriates living and working abroad. His detailed insights have helped thousands of people move and live abroad with greater simplicity and ease.
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