Remote Work Visa | FAQs | Xpatweb

REMOTE WORK VISA (DIGITAL NOMAD VISA) FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Top Questions About the South African Remote Work Visa

  • You must earn above a specified income threshold (usually a monthly minimum salary set by the Department of Home Affairs).
  • Freelancers and contractors can apply if they meet the income requirement and can prove consistent remote work.
  • You must conduct work related activities purely for an entity based outside of South Africa.
  • Valid passport, completed application forms, proof of income (bank statements, contracts, and/or payslips).
  • Police clearance certificate(s) and a medical certificate are required.
  • Evidence of remote employment, such as contracts and business registration.
  • The Remote Work Visa is valid for a period of up to 36 months.
  • It may be renewed from within South Africa, subject to meeting ongoing requirements.
  • Yes, spouses and dependent children can apply for dependent visas, in order to accompany the main visa holder.
  • Dependents may be allowed to study; however, should dependents intend to work, they will be required to apply for a work visa in their own right.
  • If you intend to stay more than 183 days, within a calendar year, you may be considered a tax resident and must register.
  • Tax obligations depend on your home country’s double taxation agreements with South Africa.
  • If no agreement exists, consult a tax advisor for your specific situation.
  • The Remote Work Visa is issued as a multiple-entry visa, allowing travel in and out of South Africa whilst your visa remains valid.
  • Applications are submitted at South Africa’s Foreign Missions abroad, within the Applicant’s country of origin and/or where they hold long-term residency status.
  • Converting a short-term Visitor’s Visa to a Remote Work Visa from within South Africa is not permitted, unless under exceptional circumstances.
  • Processing times vary; however, the processing times are estimated to be 6-8 weeks from the date of submission, largely dependent on the country of submission.
  • Xpatweb can assist with document preparation and liaising to help expedite your application.
  • South Africa taxes residents on their worldwide income.
  • Non-residents are only taxed on income sourced in South Africa.
  • You may consider alternative visas for South Africa depending on your needs and eligibility requirements.
  • Our consultants can advise on the best visa option based on your intention and prevalent circumstances.

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