1. What is a digital nomad visa?

A visa designed for digital nomads provides the legal permission to work within a country for an extended period of time, with fewer complications compared to a work visa and longer duration than a tourist visa.

The digital nomad visa permits freelancers and digital nomads to reside in their preferred location for a duration ranging from 6 months to 2 years, and the process of extending it is uncomplicated.

2. Why get it?

Visa restrictions and immigration are two of the main obstacles faced by digital nomads, according to their personal experiences.

Prior to the advent of digital nomad visas, travel visas were the sole option available to digital nomads. Regrettably, these visas prohibitted tourists from engaging in work activities within the country, and usually stipulated a maximum stay duration of 90 days. As such, digital nomads and freelance travelers had to surreptitiously blend work and leisure activities.

Once their travel visa has expired, they need to visit the immigration office, wait for extended periods, and make a payment to renew their travel visa. Additionally, there are certain nations where renewal is unavailable, prompting digital nomads to execute a “visa run” maneuver whereby they travel to nearby countries for a brief period before returning to get a new travel visa stamp (although a few countries prohibit even this).

Engaging in these activities as a digital nomad for several years will eventually exhaust you, both physically and mentally, and emotionally.

If you meet the eligibility criteria, it’s highly recommended that you consider obtaining a digital nomad visa. This visa eradicates travel visa restrictions, prolonged waits at the immigration office, and the need for visa runs. Moreover, it allows you to work in a fresh and innovative environment, which can boost your productivity and creativity.

3. How to get it?

Although processes and requirements differ among countries, here is a general overview of how to obtain a digital nomad visa.

Find out whether you are eligible by going to the country’s immigration website or embassy office in your or a nearby country.
Prepare all the necessary documents such as bank statements, passport, and proof of being a digital nomad or freelancer.
Submit all documents either by applying online or at the embassy office.
Wait for approval and processing while planning the long-anticipated travel.
Collect your digital nomad visa, book your flight tickets, and begin your long-term nomadic lifestyle!

To determine the qualifications and prerequisites for each country involved, simply click on the links provided at the conclusion of this article.

4. Who is eligible for a digital nomad visa?

The eligibility requirements for a digital nomad visa vary depending on the country, however, the following items are typically required to apply:

You are location-independent.
You can work digitally and remotely.
You have a stable flow of income and earn more than the minimum requirement.
You are from one of the eligible countries (e.g, Europe allows people from certain countries to apply).
You have proof of employment or ownership of a company.
You have travel or health insurance.

5. How long does the process take?

The duration of obtaining a digital nomad visa may vary between 3 to 4 months, depending on the country where you are seeking the visa.

7. Can I bring my family members with me?

You can bring your family members with you to certain countries under their digital nomad visa programs, typically for an extra charge. Examples of these countries include Anguilla (part of the UK), Antigua and Barbuda (in the Caribbean), Dubai (in the UAE), and Estonia (in the EU).

8. What are the typical restrictions I need to be aware of?

The digital nomad visa is an official visa that is acknowledged by countries that participate in its program. Carrying it while out and about should not pose any issues.

Unless you’re actively seeking problems, possessing a visa won’t be able to assist you.

9. How do I renew my digital nomad visa?

To renew a digital nomad visa, one would typically need to pay a fee and the process is generally straightforward. If the visa is close to expiration, simply visit the immigration office to initiate the renewal process.

South Africa Digital Nomad Visa

Living in South Africa as a digital nomad

For years, South Africa has been captivating the interest of numerous travelers due to its awe-inspiring landscapes and distinct ecosystems. It presents an ideal opportunity to discover traditional African scenery, with its remarkable combination of golden savannahs, magnificent coastlines, vast gaping gorges, and stunning deserts. In short, South Africa caters to diverse interests and tastes of wanderlust seekers.

Digital nomads and remote workers find South Africa an appealing destination as they not only have the opportunity to experience the country’s abundant natural beauty but also to immerse themselves in numerous diverse cultures and languages.

While South Africa boasts of 11 recognized languages, a significant number of inhabitants are fluent in English, making communication with locals effortless. Additionally, the cost of living in the country is very reasonable, with cities such as Cape Town or Johannesburg offering all the essential facilities you may require.

Attractions and best places to visit

South Africa boasts many private reserves and lodges that are ideal for nature lovers. Visitors can witness lions, giraffes, rhinos, elephants, and numerous other animals in their natural habitats.

Kruger National Park is an exceptional game reserve in Africa worth visiting, located 4 hours away by car from Johannesburg. Here, a variety of wildlife thrives, including lions, buffalos, leopards, rhinos, and elephants. Additionally, there are numerous other species to observe. The park also boasts San (indigenous) rock paintings and archaeological sites.

Don’t forget to add Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park to your itinerary, which is among the biggest wilderness expanses across the globe. It is positioned in Northern Cape and holds the distinction of being the initial officially designated transfrontier park in Africa. Here, you will be able to witness camel thorn trees, red dunes, golden plains, breathtaking cerulean skies, and an extensive range of wild species. Black-maned Kalahari lions, gemsboks, weavers, meerkats, and numerous raptors are some of the animals that call Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park their home.

The Drakensberg, also referred to as the Dragon Mountains and situated in KwaZulu-Natal, is an ideal destination for those seeking mountainous scenery. The area encompasses the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park, a World Heritage site famous for its rough basalt massifs and San rock art. Additionally, it is home to the Royal Natal National Park, boasting the incredible Amphitheatre, a cliff face that generates South Africa’s principal rivers.

Exploring the city of Durban in KwaZulu-Natal is best done on the Golden Mile. With its long sandy beaches, towering hotels, retail outlets, eateries, and lively entertainment centers, it offers a lot. It is ideal for surfing, swimming, and fishing enthusiasts.

If you’re planning a trip to a city, Cape Town is a destination you shouldn’t miss. It’s renowned as one of the world’s most beautiful cities, thanks to its location between the sea and a mountainous region. Cape Town is also a melting pot of cultures, giving you the opportunity to discover South African traditions, cuisine, and make new friends.

Digital Nomad Hotspots

Cape Town is becoming increasingly popular among digital nomads due to its stunning architecture, rich culture, and close proximity to various tourist sites. Additionally, the area boasts numerous co-working spaces, a vibrant nightlife, an extensive coffee scene, and a diverse community of expatriates.

Johannesburg is a recommended city for digital nomads as it is a burgeoning business hub with plentiful investment options. The expat community is burgeoning, and there are numerous co-working and meeting spaces available for remote workers. However, the city has safety concerns that potential settlers should weigh before committing.

Digital nomads have also taken notice of Pretoria as a potential location. Despite having a small ex-pat community and a more relaxed lifestyle, Pretoria is worth considering if you’re seeking a new experience.

Cost of Living

In South Africa, the South African Rand is the accepted currency; however, its exchange rate fluctuates frequently, so it is crucial to stay updated on its current value to determine the necessary amount. Presently, approximately 15R equals 1USD.

In the city center, a studio apartment comes with an average price of $594/month, while a larger apartment would cost you $981/month.

A budget-friendly meal can be purchased for approximately $8, whereas a combination meal at a quick-service restaurant will set you back $4.50.

Digital Nomad Essentials

There are various modes of public transportation in Cape Town. The Cape Town metropolitan area is serviced by the Golden Arrow Bus Service, while the Metrorail Western Cape provides train services. The Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system in and around the Cape Metropole is known as MyCiTi. Additionally, one can also find numerous taxis and minibusses operating in the region.

Cape Town boasts of a reliable internet connection, with various co-working spaces offering fiber optic internet speeds ranging from 10Mbps to 200Mbps. Additionally, the city has numerous hotspots. The downside, however, is that free Wi-Fi spots in many areas offer limited data allowances below 50Mb, or frustratingly sluggish speeds. Your most viable alternative would be to purchase a SIM card to access constant, speedy, and dependable internet connectivity.

Visa Overview

The South African government introduced a digital nomad visa in April 2022, with the aim of enticing more overseas visitors and travelers to enjoy the country’s diverse range of offerings. Due to the impact of COVID-19 and the imposition of travel limitations, visitor numbers have plummeted drastically. To revive the economy and make up for the substantial losses incurred, foreigners are being urged to inhabit South Africa.

The digital nomad visa will allow remote workers (people who work or freelance for foreign employers, companies, or even run their own business) to stay in South Africa. At the moment, foreigners are already allowed to stay for 90 days, but with the digital nomad visa they’ll be allowed to stay there for longer. The proposal is for the visa to be valir for a year with the possibility to be renewed.

Attractive provisions for visa applicants’ dependents have also been reported by the Department of Home Affairs.

Full details have yet to be revealed and the visa is currently unavailable. As soon as further information is disclosed, we will keep you informed.

It is important to be aware that travel to South Africa may involve certain limitations. Keep yourself informed of the COVID-19 entry criteria for South Africa by referring to this source.

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Who Can Apply for the Digital Nomad Visa for South Africa

Digital nomads from any country can obtain the South African visa through the online application platform, without any current limitations on nationality.

Like most other digital nomad visas, the digital nomad visa for South Africa may require a minimum salary. While the actual figure is currently unspecified, there have been speculations that the minimum salary might be $3,000 monthly.

Applicants are most likely required to provide evidence of employment and health insurance.

How to Apply for the Digital Nomad Visa for South Africa

Regrettably, the application process is not currently available. The South African government recently unveiled the visa proposal in April 2022, and it will require some time to implement. As soon as the application procedures are validated, we will amend this page.

Documents required to apply for the digital nomad visa for South Africa

Passport that is legitimate.

Evidence of either being employed or doing freelance work for overseas clients or having ownership of a personal business.

Minimum income required on a monthly basis.

Insurance for healthcare purposes.

Evidence of where you will be staying.