Digital Nomads and Remote Workers now welcome in South Africa!
The i’s have been dotted and the t’s have been crossed on the Digital Nomad Visa rules. The requirements are now confirmed as:
- Contract of employment with an employer outside South Africa
- Gross salary of at least R 650 796 per annum
- Return flight ticket (for visas longer than 1 year, practicalities will have to be tested)
- Registration for income tax with the South African Revenue Service (unless you are tax registered in a country that has a double taxation agreement with South Africa, in which case you only need to register for tax in South Africa if you are in the country for more than 183 days per annum)
The visa can be issued for a period of up to 3 years and does not lead to permanent residence. It cannot be changed to another type of visa from within South Africa.
If you are working for your own business, hold an employment contract and receive the required salary, you will likely qualify for the visa. Sadly, this final version seems to exclude freelancers and consultants who work outside of formal employment and fixed salaries.