Two new visa categories—a remote working visa and a critical skills visa—have been added to the current immigration regulations, the Department of Home Affairs has revealed.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa claims that the introduction of a remote working visa is a reaction to the quickly changing nature of the workforce, as more and more skilled workers—particularly in the tech sector—are drawn to remote work because of its lifestyle advantages.
Who can apply for the African digital nomad visa?
Remote workers looking to work in South Africa while employed by an overseas company are eligible for a visa. Global experiences demonstrate that workers with essential skills boost productivity, foster innovation, and enhance the competitiveness of the companies they are associated with.
More visa requirements
- A valid passport.
- Ability to work remotely.
- Monthly earnings of at least $3,000.
- Health insurance coverage valid in South Africa.
- Address details of accommodations in South Africa.
Requirements for the critical skills visa
The Department of Home Affairs noted that a minimum annual income requirement of at least R1 million (USD 55,000) is one of the requirements for acceptance in South Africa’s critical skills list. This ensures that workers can substantially boost the regional economy while enjoying a high standard of living.
Other African countries offering digital nomad visas
Namibia
The application process for a visa is completed online. An email confirming your approval will be sent to you.
Visa Term: 6 months
Visa Criteria:
- Possession of a valid passport.
- Ability to work remotely.
- Monthly income of at least $2,000.
- Health insurance coverage applicable in Namibia.
- Clear criminal record.
Cape Verde
To get the digital nomad visa for Cape Verde you do not necessarily need to work remotely. All you need to do is demonstrate that you have maintained a 1,500€ bank balance over the previous six months.
The online application process is very straightforward. You will obtain your digital nomad visa at border control upon arrival in Cape Verde.
To do so, you must be a citizen of Europe, North America, the Community of Portuguese-Speaking Countries (CPLP), or the Economic Community of West African States (CEDEAO).
Visa Term: 6 months (renewable)
List of Requirements:
- A valid passport.
- Bank balance of at least 1,500€ maintained for the past six months.
- Health insurance coverage applicable in Cape Verde.
- Clear criminal record.
- Address details of accommodations in Cape Verde.
Mauritius
This African digital nomad visa is being requested by remote workers because of its basic requirements and application process.
Visa Term: 1 year (renewable)
Visa Criteria:
- Possession of a valid passport.
- Ability to work remotely.
- Monthly earnings of at least $1,500.
- Health insurance coverage applicable in Mauritius.
- Citizenship of one of these 114 countries.