Want to work in South Africa, or know someone who does? Remote working visas 101…

Amy Maciver speaks to Stefanie De Saude-Darbandi, an Immigration Law Specialist, about South Africa's remote visa requirements and application process.

On 20 May 2024, the South African government approved new remote working ('digital nomad') regulations for foreigners working remotely in South Africa for a non-South African company, or those deriving income from a foreign source.

De Saude-Darbandi explains the dos and don'ts of nomad/remote working visas:

• Nomad visas mean foreigners apply for a visitor visa with authorisation to work remotely
• Remote workers must earn a gross salary of R1 million a year
• The remote visa is issued for three years
• Visa conditions can't be changed in South Africa. Visa status changes can only be made in the country of permanent residency. For example, remote workers can't change their remote visa status to a study visa 
• The nomad visa doesn't allow you to apply for permanent residency in South Africa

Since regulations around nomad visas are new, it remains unclear if foreigners must apply to be registered as taxpayers or apply for an exemption from tax.

Regulations around this type of visa will be clarified in time, notes De Saude-Darbandi.

"It's very new in South Africa. As time goes by, Home Affairs will release directives on what exactly is required."

- Stefanie De Saude-Darbandi, Immigration Law Specialist 

Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the full conversation.