Relocating from South Africa? Here are your best options

Relocating from South Africa? Here are your best options

Ready for a new adventure? Here are the top destinations for South Africans looking to relocate, from the UK to Portugal.

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Travel map location pin / iStock

Are you a South African considering relocation? With so many amazing countries to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go. 

Information from CS Global has provided much needed information on the most popular destinations for South Africans, including the UK, Australia, the US, New Zealand, Canada, Netherlands, Ireland, Portugal, Dominica, and St. Kitts.

The United Kingdom

The UK is a top choice for South Africans, offering a strong job market, a high standard of living, and an excellent education system. With various visa options available, including working visas, student visas, and family visas, it's fairly easy to make the move. 

After five years, you can apply for permanent residency, and after six years, you can become a citizen.

Australia

Australia is another popular destination, boasting a high standard of living, a quality education system, and vibrant cultural diversity. There are various visa options available, including skilled migration, family, and student visas.

Once you’ve been a resident for four years, you can apply for permanent residency; after five years, you can become a citizen.

United States

The US is a hub for diversity, job opportunities, and education. While the immigration process can be challenging, the opportunities make it worth it. With various visa options available, including work visas, family visas, and business/investment visas, you can make your American dream a reality.

Holding permanent residency for five years makes you eligible to apply for citizenship.

New Zealand

New Zealand is known for its stunning landscapes, excellent living standards, and friendly people. Visa options available include skilled migrant visas, work visas, and family visas. 

Owning property for two years allows you to apply for permanent residency, and five years of residency makes you eligible for citizenship.

Canada

Canada is a welcoming country with a highly developed economy and excellent public services. With friendly immigration policies, you can easily establish a new home. There are several options for immigration to Canada, such as the Express Entry Program, family sponsorship, and provincial nominee category. 

After six to 12 months, you can obtain permanent residency, and after three years, you can become a citizen.

Netherlands

The Netherlands is a popular choice due to its economic prosperity, high living wages, and excellent public services. With various visa options available, including highly skilled migrant visas, startup visas, and family visas, you can easily make the move. 

After five years, you can apply for permanent residency, and after seven years, you can become a citizen.

Ireland

Ireland is a great choice due to its ease of doing business, efficient economy, vibrant cultural scene, and smooth relations with the UK. Visa options available include work visas, student visas, and family visas. 

Five years of residency in Ireland qualifies you for permanent residency, and after eight years, you can apply for citizenship.

Portugal

Portugal is a popular destination due to its affordability, favourable climate, and friendly population. With the Golden Visa programme, you can get residency and citizenship in a short time.

Once you’ve lived in Portugal for five years, you can apply for permanent residency, and after six years, you can become a citizen.

Dominica and St. Kitts

For those looking for a more exotic destination, Dominica and St. Kitts offer attractive Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programmes. 

With investment starting from $200,000 (approximately R3,716,940.14) for Dominica and $250,000 (about R4,646,175.17) for St. Kitts, you can obtain citizenship and enjoy the benefits of living in a tropical paradise.

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