South africa digital nomad visa 2023
A remote working visa for South Africa is in the pipeline, opening the country up to global digital nomads. It’s expected to allow people who work for foreign companies from their home countries to remain in the country for up to a year. It’s likely to also include provisions for immediate family members to accompany the main visa holder.
The country has been a popular travel destination for years thanks to its breathtaking natural landscapes, affordable cost of living (less than $2000 per month), stable internet and a wide variety of outdoor activities. It’s a hiker’s paradise with soaring mountains, endless savannahs, gaping gorges and pristine beaches, as well as a safari lover’s dream with hundreds of wildlife parks to choose from. It’s also known for its vast coffee culture, vibrant nightlife and extensive co-working spaces.
But the Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent travel restrictions dealt a blow to the economy, and tourist numbers have yet to rebound. The government is looking to rejuvenate the tourism sector by attracting longer-term visitors, which will boost local spending and generate revenue. And with a booming tech industry, an up-and-coming entrepreneurship scene and good internet infrastructure, South Africa has the potential to become a top choice for digital nomads in the future.
With the launch of the new digital nomad visa, South Africa will be one of just a few countries in the world that offers a working permit specifically for this demographic. The other countries that have such a visa are Chile, Thailand and Mexico.
In addition to the new visa, it’s reported that there will be a host of other benefits, including discounts for local attractions and services, as well as social events for nomads. The exact details of the programme have yet to be revealed, but the government is aiming to make it as attractive as possible for those interested in working remotely in South Africa.
The South africa digital nomad visa 2023 will be a temporary residence visa that is valid for up to a year, and may be renewed. The application process will be similar to other working visas, with a few requirements that need to be met. These include:
A valid passport. Proof of income. Authenticated copies of bank statements showing the applicant’s name, balances and dates should be submitted. Alternatively, an employment contract or other documentation that attests to the applicant’s self-employment status can be submitted.
In addition, it is recommended to have international health insurance that covers the territory of South Africa. A full coverage plan that is suited for digital nomads, such as Remote Worker Travel Health Insurance is ideal.