Moving to South Africa from the USA: Everything you need to know

South Africa is a place of contrasts. One day, you could be sipping coffee in a trendy Cape Town café, the next spotting elephants on a safari drive. For Americans moving here, the appeal is a mix of adventure and an affordable lifestyle compared to many US cities.

Making the move means more than booking a flight. You’ll need to explore visa options, understand everyday costs, and choose a location that fits your lifestyle and budget.

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Table of contents
Quick facts about South Africa Visa options for Americans in South Africa Cost of living in South Africa Opening a bank account in South Africa Getting accommodation in South Africa Healthcare system in South Africa Best cities to live in South Africa as an expat Is it safe to live in South Africa?

Quick facts about South Africa

South Africa is a diverse and vibrant country, known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

If you’re thinking about moving to South Africa from the USA, here are a few essentials to keep in mind:¹

Capital	Pretoria (administrative), Cape Town (legislative), Bloemfontein (judicial)
Population	Approximately 60 million
Currency	South African Rand (ZAR)
Primary language	Afrikaans, English
Time zone	South African Standard Time (SAST)
Government	Constitutional republic
Healthcare	Public system with private options available
US tax treaty	Yes

From the vibrant city life of Cape Town to the scenic Garden Route and game reserves, South Africa offers a unique mix of cultural and natural beauty.

Visa options for Americans in South Africa

Americans can visit South Africa without a visa for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.² If you plan to stay longer for work, study, retirement, or other reasons, you’ll need to apply for the correct temporary residence visa before traveling.

Here are the most common options.³

General work visa

A general work visa is for foreigners who have a confirmed job offer in South Africa, but whose role cannot be filled by a South African citizen or permanent resident.

Your employer must first get a certificate from the Department of Labour showing that they could not find a qualified local candidate.

They must also provide a signed employment contract, proof that your salary meets local standards, and details of the company’s registration.

Critical skills work visa

This visa is for applicants with skills or qualifications listed on South Africa’s official Critical Skills List.

You’ll need your qualifications evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) and confirmation from a recognized professional body or government department that you meet the criteria.

If your profession requires registration, you must show proof you’ve applied for it.

Intra-company transfer work visa

If you work for a multinational company and are being transferred to a South African branch, you can apply for an intra-company transfer visa.

You must have been employed by the foreign branch for at least six months before the transfer, and your South African employer must submit a skills transfer plan.

This visa is valid for up to 4 years and cannot be extended.

Business visa

If you’re starting or expanding a business in South Africa, you can apply for a business visa.

You must have at least R5,000,000 (~USD 281,600) in available cash or capital, a recommendation from the Department of Trade and Industry, and a plan to employ at least 60% South African citizens or permanent residents.

You’ll also need to register with the relevant tax, insurance, and corporate bodies.

Study visa

For full-time study at an accredited South African school, college, or university, you’ll need a study visa.

You must show proof of acceptance, valid South African medical cover, and funds to support yourself during your studies. If you’re the dependent child of a visa holder and covered under their insurance, you may not need separate medical cover.

Retired person’s visa

If you want to retire in South Africa, you can apply for a retired person’s visa. You must show proof of a monthly income of at least R37,000 (~USD 2,085) from a pension, retirement annuity, or other assets.

Relative’s visa

This visa is for immediate family members of South African citizens or permanent residents who want to join their loved ones in the country.

The South African sponsor must demonstrate the ability to provide financial support of at least R8,500 (~USD 480) per month, supported by recent payslips or bank statements. This requirement is waived if the applicant is a dependent child.

Medical treatment visa

If you’re travelling to South Africa for medical care, you can apply for a medical treatment visa, typically granted for up to 6 months at a time.

Your application must include a letter from a registered medical institution in South Africa confirming the treatment plan, estimated costs, and whether the condition is treatable.

You’ll also need proof of how medical and related expenses will be paid—either by insurance, the institution, or personal funds.

Cost of living in South Africa

South Africa offers a noticeably lower cost of living compared to the US, especially when it comes to essentials like groceries, dining out, and housing. Still, keep in mind that prices can vary depending on whether you live in a bustling city or a more affordable area.

Here’s a snapshot of what you might expect:

Expense	Approximate Cost (USD)⁴
Meal at an inexpensive restaurant	~$10
Three-course meal for two (mid-range)	~$40
Apartment (1 bed) in the city center	~$450
Apartment (3 bed) in the city center	~$900
Utilities (monthly)	~$113–338

Most newcomers find that South Africa offers significantly more value for their money compared to many other countries.

Living comfortably in a major city typically costs between $850 and $1,200 USD per month for a single person, including rent for a one-bedroom apartment.⁵ This estimate covers essentials like groceries, utilities, transportation, and leisure spending.

Monthly expenses for a family of four are estimated to be $1,964.3 USD.⁵ Location plays a major role in overall costs. Cape Town tends to be the higher end of the scale, while cities such as Durban and Pretoria are usually more affordable.

Opening a bank account in South Africa

Most major banks in South Africa make it straightforward for newcomers to open an account. You’ll typically need to visit a branch in person with your passport, proof of address, and a valid visa or residency permit.

Some banks may also request proof of income or employment, especially if you’re opening a current account rather than a basic savings account.

Popular options include Standard Bank, First National Bank (FNB), Absa, and Nedbank, all of which offer accounts tailored for expatriates. Fees can vary, so it’s worth comparing monthly maintenance charges, withdrawal limits, and international transfer costs before you choose.

Many banks now offer mobile apps with plenty of functionality, making it easy to manage accounts, pay bills, and transfer funds both locally and internationally.

If you plan to move money regularly between South Africa and the United States, consider choosing a bank with competitive foreign exchange rates or pairing your account with a low-cost international transfer service.

Tax implications for Americans in South Africa

As a US citizen or green card holder, you remain liable for US taxes on your worldwide income, even if you live and work in South Africa. This means you’ll need to file an annual US tax return alongside any tax obligations in South Africa.

South Africa taxes residents on worldwide income and non-residents on income sourced within the country. The tax year runs from March 1 to the end of February, with progressive rates ranging from 18% to 45%.⁶

To avoid being taxed twice on the same income, you can use provisions like the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion or claim a foreign tax credit on your US return. South Africa and the United States also have a tax treaty that can help reduce double taxation in certain situations.

If you hold more than $10,000 USD in foreign accounts at any point during the year, you’ll need to file a Foreign Bank Account Report (FBAR) with the US Treasury.⁷ This requirement applies even if the funds are in a joint account or you only have signing authority.

Given the complexity of cross-border tax compliance, many Americans in South Africa work with a tax professional experienced in both the US and South African tax systems.

Getting accommodation in South Africa

Housing costs in South Africa vary greatly depending on the city, neighborhood, and type of property. Cape Town and Johannesburg tend to be the most expensive, while smaller cities and rural towns are far more affordable.

Before committing to a lease or purchase, it’s worth spending time in different areas to get a feel for the lifestyle, transport options, and safety in each neighborhood.

Renting

Many expats start with a short-term rental or serviced apartment while they get settled. This gives you time to explore neighborhoods, check commute times, and understand local amenities before making a longer-term commitment.

Popular sites for finding rentals in South Africa include:

• Property24
• Private Property
• Gumtree (classified ads, including rentals)
• Facebook housing groups for specific cities

Here’s a snapshot of average monthly rent in central locations:

City	1 bedroom (USD)	3 bedroom (USD)
Cape Town⁸	~$784	~$1451
Johannesburg⁹	~$430	~938
Durban¹⁰	~$391	~$768
Pretoria¹¹	~$402	~$728

You can also save by opting for a rental outside the city center, where prices often drop significantly.

When renting, be prepared to provide proof of income, a copy of your passport, and sometimes references from previous landlords. Always get a written lease, and confirm whether utilities like electricity, water, and internet are included in the rent.

Many properties use prepaid electricity meters, so you’ll need to top up your credit in advance.

Buying property in South Africa

Foreigners, including Americans, can buy property in South Africa without restrictions. The process is relatively straightforward, but it’s advisable to work with a reputable real estate agent and conveyancing attorney to handle legal checks and the transfer process.

Extra costs to budget for include:

• Transfer duty (up to 13% depending on the purchase price)¹²
• Conveyancing fees
• Bond registration costs if taking out a mortgage

Property prices are highest in Cape Town’s Atlantic Seaboard, central Johannesburg, and upmarket suburbs like Sandton. Smaller towns and rural areas often offer much better value for money.

Healthcare system in South Africa

South Africa has both public and private healthcare, with significant differences in cost and quality between the two.

The public system is government-funded and available to all residents, including expats with valid visas. While it’s more affordable, public hospitals can face long wait times and limited resources, especially in rural areas. Services are provided on a sliding scale based on income, so higher earners will pay more for treatment.

Many expats choose private healthcare for faster service, access to specialized care, and modern facilities. South Africa’s private hospitals are considered among the best in Africa, and many doctors have trained internationally. However, costs can be high without insurance.

Here’s what you can expect to pay in the private sector:¹³

Service	Public Healthcare Costs (USD)	Private Healthcare Costs (USD)
GP visits	Free or around ~$1–3 per visit	~$20–39 per visit
Specialist consultations	Free if referred by a public GP, small admin fee (~$2–6)	~$45–112 per consultation
Maternity care	Generally free, small admin fees (~$6-17)	~$1,400–2800+ depending on hospital
Dental care	Basic work: ~$2–6	Check-ups: ~$17–56, complex work up to ~$448
Hospital stay	~$11–28 per night	~$169–560 per night, excluding extra costs

If you’re moving to South Africa from the US, you’ll want comprehensive medical insurance that covers both routine care and emergencies. Some international plans include coverage for evacuation to another country if needed, which can be useful in remote regions.

It’s also worth checking whether your employer provides private medical aid as part of your contract.

Best cities to live in South Africa as an expat

South Africa’s cities offer very different lifestyles. Whether you want ocean views, big-city opportunities, or a quieter pace, you’ll find options that cater to a range of budgets and preferences.

Cape Town

Cape Town is a top choice for many expats thanks to its natural beauty, mild climate, and vibrant culture. You’ll find beaches, mountains, and wine country all within an hour’s drive.

The city has a mix of modern amenities and laid-back living, though housing in popular neighborhoods like Camps Bay and the City Bowl can be expensive. Many expats work in tourism, creative industries, or remote roles for international companies.

Johannesburg

Johannesburg is South Africa’s economic hub, with career opportunities in finance, media, and tech. While it’s inland, the city makes up for the lack of coastline with a strong arts scene and a wide range of restaurants.

Housing is generally more affordable than in Cape Town, and gated communities are popular for security and convenience. The high-altitude climate means warm summers and mild winters.

Durban

Durban offers warm weather year-round and a lower cost of living compared to Cape Town or Johannesburg. It’s a major port city with beautiful beaches, a thriving surf scene, and strong Indian cultural influences.

Expats in Durban often work in manufacturing or tourism. Neighborhoods like Umhlanga and Durban North are popular for their amenities and proximity to the beach.

Is it safe to live in South Africa?

Safety is a concern for many Americans considering a move to South Africa. Crime rates are higher than in many countries, particularly in urban areas. However, experiences vary widely depending on location and personal precautions.

Many expats live in secure housing, such as gated communities or apartment complexes with 24-hour security. These areas often have controlled access, private patrols, and community watch programs.

Day-to-day safety often comes down to situational awareness. Common tips include:

• Avoid displaying valuables in public
• Keep car doors locked and windows closed while driving
• Use reputable transport services, especially at night
• Stay informed about which neighborhoods are considered high-risk

Despite the challenges, many expats report feeling safe once they’ve settled in and adjusted their routines. South Africans are known for their warmth and hospitality, and strong community networks often provide a sense of security and support.

Final thoughts

South Africa has a way of rewarding those who come with an open mind.

You might trade a bit of day-to-day efficiency for landscapes that make weekend plans easy and friendships that feel like family. Costs can be reasonable if you live like a local, and the mix of public and private healthcare means you’ll have options that suit your budget.

If you can adapt to a different rhythm, life here can be as vibrant as the country itself.

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Sources

1. Greenbacktaxservices - South Africa at a Glance
2. Travelstategov - Quick Facts
3. Department of Home Affairs - Types of Temporary Residency Visas
4. Numbeo - Cost of Living in South Africa
5. Ecoflow - What is the average cost of living in South Africa?
6. Assets.kpmg - Overview and Introduction (page 4)
7. Wikipedia - FBAR
8. Numbeo - Cape Town
9. Numbeo - Johannesburg
10. Numbeo - Durban
11. Numbeo - Pretoria
12. Sars.gov - New transfer duty rates
13. Internationalinsurance - How much does healthcare cost in South Africa?

Sources checked 09/12/2025