Nearly a year after introducing its remote work visa, South Africa is witnessing a steady influx of travellers relocating to its cities, coastlines, and countryside.
The visa allows foreign nationals to live in South Africa while working remotely for companies based outside the country, as part of a broader government initiative to tap into the global shift towards flexible work and longer-stay travel.
Over the past decade, the digital nomad phenomenon has seen exponential growth worldwide, driven by the proliferation of flexible work arrangements, advancements in technology, and a shift towards lifestyle-centric living.
As traditional office boundaries dissolve, remote professionals are seeking out destinations that offer a unique blend of high-speed internet, vibrant cultural experiences, affordable living, and adventure.
Growing Interest in Remote Work
“There has been an increase in the volume of applications from people who wish to reside in South Africa while conducting work remotely,” said Thulani Mavuso, spokesperson for the Department of Home Affairs. “This is evidenced by a growing, even if not overwhelming, number of enquiries received from potential travellers.”
South Africa joins countries like Portugal, Estonia, and Barbados in leveraging the digital nomad economy. The 2022 Work Visa Report by Operation Vulindlela found that Covid-19 accelerated the adoption of remote work globally, creating an opportunity for countries to attract high-earning remote workers.
Life as a Remote Worker in South Africa
Anastasiia Merkusheva from Russia said she was drawn to South Africa’s beautiful landscapes and English-speaking population.
“There is quite a big community of Russian-speaking people residing in South Africa. It is a great place to mix business with pleasure; there’s a stable internet for work and a lot of places to explore, and people also speak English,” said Merkusheva.
She, however, noted that safety was a key factor in deciding where to live. “It wasn’t difficult to find an apartment on Airbnb, but it was tough to choose a safe district. We chose the Strand area because it’s near the ocean, close to wineries, and not far from Cape Town.”
Positive Impact on Tourism and Local Economies
Local economies report that international travellers boost local businesses and communities.
We’ve seen a gradual but noticeable increase in digital nomads choosing KwaZulu-Natal,” said Craig Drysdale, Director of Inspirations Travel & Tours. “Longer-stay travellers have a more sustainable impact on local economies, supporting local businesses and reducing environmental footprints.”
“South Africa has all the ingredients to position itself as a leading hub for digital nomads. The country combines excellent natural assets, beaches, mountains, and wildlife, with urban centres that offer world-class restaurants, cultural events, and co-working spaces. The cost of living is affordable, the climate is conducive to outdoor living, and English is widely spoken, which reduces barriers for international visitors,” he added.
Whether it’s the perfect weather, the breathtaking backdrop of Table Mountain and Lion’s Head, the vibrant cultural scene, or the proximity to some of the world’s most renowned wine regions, Cape Town offers something for everyone, making it a top destination for digital nomads and lifestyle seekers alike.
The City of Cape Town’s Economic Growth department notes that tourism contributed 7.7% to Gross Value Add in 2023, sustaining 5.9% of all jobs in the city.
“Digital nomads are a type of tourist sector and tourism adds major value to the Cape Town economy as it is a job-intensive sector. In 2023 the sector contributed an estimated 7,7% to Gross Value Add (GVA), to the tune of R27,3 billion and directly sustained 5,9% (91 378) of all jobs in the city. Should roleplayers in the public and private sectors maintain their efforts to connect with travellers while developing engaging products, tourism will become an even greater driver of economic growth and job creation in the city,” said Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth, James Vos.
Government Response to Global Shift
The remote work visa was introduced following global changes in work culture, accelerated by the pandemic, the Department of HomeAffairs said.
“There has been an increase in the volume of applications from people who wish to reside in South Africa while conducting work remotely. This is evidenced by a growing, even if not overwhelming, number of enquiries received from potential travellers,” said Mavuso.
The Department of Home Affairs has implemented various measures to facilitate the application process and ensure a smooth experience for remote workers.
“South Africa is well-positioned to take advantage of this global group of professionals by making amendments to immigration regulations. Amendments were made in 2024 to the Immigration Regulations, 2014, to allow for remote work. Remote workers who meet the qualifying criteria are now able to apply for the visitor’s visa with an endorsement to conduct remote work,” he added.
