Top 20 easiest countries to move to from South Africa in 2024

Many South Africans relocate to other countries because of currency volatility, inadequate safety and security, education standards, political and social instability, and in search of better-paying jobs. Discover some of the easiest countries to move to from South Africa and the documents you need to move to these countries for work purposes.

This article bases on the Statistica Research Department's demographics data of the total South African migrants living abroad. Statista has a pool of experts who constantly conduct independent, objective, and insight-driven research.

Easiest countries to move to from South Africa

Roughly 915,000 South African migrants live abroad, most of whom have settled in the United Kingdom and Australia. According to the demographics data provided by the Statistica Research Department about the number of SA immigrants in 2020 (by country of destination), one can conclude that these are some of the easiest countries to move to from South Africa:

Read also

Top 15 affordable boarding schools in South Africa in 2023

The research centers on the number of South African-born citizens who moved to other countries through pensioner's visas, work permits, permanent residencies, and dual citizenship, among other legal means. Gain more insights into the easiest countries to move to from South Africa, as listed below, and the required documents for those planning to relocate to these countries for work.

20. Italy - Over 5,800

Italy's increasing prosperity, opening up specific niches for immigrant employment, segmentation of the Italian labor market, and the demographic collapse in Italy attract immigrants from South Africa and worldwide. Over 5,800 South Africans live in Italy.

Read also

Appling for birth certificate for foreigners in South Africa in 2024

Immigration pathways

These are the immigration pathways available for one to move to Italy:

• Student visa
• Internship Visa
• Investor visa
• Italy Startup Visa
• Family visa
• Italian Visas for work
• Digital nomad Visa
• Visa for religious reasons
• Visa for elective residence
• Visa for medical care

Requirements to work in Italy

South Africans relocating to Italy for employment need either of these work visas/permits:

• Employment visa
• A South African passport.
• Italian long-stay visa.
• Italian residence permit (Permesso di Soggiorno),
• Golden Visa

19. France - Over 5,900

France has historically been described as a "haven" for Africans, having officially abolished slavery in 1794. Most Africans move to France mainly due to family, work, or university studies. Over 5,900 South Africans live in France. Most reside in Lyon, Nice, and Paris.

Immigration pathways

These are the immigration pathways available for one to move to France:

Read also

How to apply for a permanent residence permit in South Africa in 2024

• French Work Visas like Salaried Employees Visa, long-stay Sports visa, long-stay visa for Volunteer work, International Organization work visa, work visa for Professionals and independent workers, and work visa for creating and running a business or company
• France Family Visa
• France student Visas like Student Trainee or Intern Visa, visa for language assistants, and France Au Pair Visa
• France for Retirement Visa

Requirements to work in France

Foreigners relocating to France for work need either of these work visas/permits:

• French Work Visas.
• Talent Passport/EU Blue Card.
• Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) permits/visas.
• Talent for Passport Directors/CEOs.

You can also use a French Tech Visa or Investor/Own Business/Entrepreneur Visas/Permits.

18. Malawi - Over 6,000

Migrants tend to move to areas with extensive employment and income-generating opportunities. Malawi is among the many countries worldwide where South Africans find these opportunities. Over 6,000 South Africans live in Malawi. You don't need a visa to enter Malawi for tourist purposes if your South African passport is valid for six months.

Read also

Average flight attendant salary in South Africa (2023)

Immigration pathways

These are the immigration pathways available for one to move to Malawi:

• Temporary Employment Permit
• Student permit
• Business Residence permit
• Temporary Permit
• Temporary Residence Permit
• Visitor's permit/Business visit permit

Requirements to work in Malawi

Foreigners relocating to Malawi for work need either of these documents:

• A visa - Most visa applications are processed within three working days.
• A Temporary Employment Permit (TEP) provided by the employer - The permit is usually valid for two years and can be extended twice by submitting TEP extension forms to immigration offices.
• A Visitor's Permit (VP) or Business Visit (BV) - The documents allow one to stay in Malawi for no more than 30 days. The permits can be extended for up to 60 days.

17. Angola - Over 6,200

Angola's oil and diamond wealth has been a source of attraction for international migrants, both skilled and unskilled. The country hosts the highest number of international migrants in the sub-region (Southern Africa). Over 6,200 South Africans are in Angola.

Read also

Pilot salary in South Africa (2024): Is it a good career?

Immigration pathways

These are the immigration pathways available for one to move to Angola:

• Ordinary Visa
• Student Visa
• Business Visa
• Work Visa

Requirements to work in Angola

South Africans hoping to move to Angola for work need these documents:

• An employment contract directly with the Angolan entity.
• A work visa valid for the duration of the employment contract and is renewable. Apply for a work visa at the Serviço de Migração e Estrangeiros (SME) in Angola.

16. Greece - Over 7,000

Greece's education and health systems are good and subsidized, the lifestyle is excellent, and the weather is fair with no winter extremes. Greece is also an extremely safe country with one of the lowest crime rates in Europe. Most expats feel safe, even when walking alone or at night. Over 7,000 South Africans are in Greece.

Immigration pathways

These are the immigration pathways available for one to move to Greece:

Read also

Foreign aid stalls as Africa's debt spirals

• Greek Golden Visa Program
• Greek family visa (long-stay visa for family reunification)
• Greek work visa for employment at the authorized government office
• Greek digital nomad visa for a dependent or self-employed employee
• Greek student visa

Requirements to work in Greece

Foreigners moving to Greece for work require these documents:

• A work visa from the Greek diplomatic missions (embassy/consulate) in your country of residence.
• A residence permit for employment from an authorized government office in Greece. The visa is valid for two years and can be renewed once it expires.
• If you want to be self-employed, get a digital nomad visa from your country of residence or Greece. The visa is valid for 12 months) and can be extended.

15. Switzerland - Over 8,300

Switzerland's high quality of life is one of the many reasons it has long been known as one of the most desirable countries for expats looking to relocate. Over 8,300 South Africans are in Switzerland. In 2022, 41% of the permanent resident population aged 15 or over and born abroad migrated to Switzerland for family reasons, 37% went there for professional reasons, 6% were seeking asylum, and 4% were there for studies.

Read also

EU seeks quick critical minerals deal with US: official

Immigration pathways

These are the immigration pathways available for one to move to Switzerland:

• Switzerland Work Visa
• Switzerland Student Visa
• Switzerland Family Reunion Visa
• Swiss retirement visa

Requirements to work in Switzerland

South Africans moving to Switzerland for work need the following things:

• A work permit by the cantonal authority.
• A national or Schengen visa.
• A South African passport.

14. Namibia - Over 8,800

Namibia is the cheapest country to immigrate to from SA. You do not require a visa for visitation if your passport is valid for at least six months. Over 8,800 South Africans live here. Namibia is set to be Africa's next millionaire hotspot due to its abundant natural resources, low population density, good energy and transport infrastructure, and, most importantly, it is safer and more secure than its neighbors.

Immigration pathways

These are the immigration pathways available for one to move to Namibia:

Read also

Honduras shrimp industry worried by diplomatic break with Taiwan

• Business visa
• Short-term work visa
• Long-term work permit
• Study permit
• Accompanying permit
• Investors/self-employed permit
• Work permits

Requirements to work in Namibia

You need either of these documents to move to Namibia for work purposes:

• A work visa - a short-term temporary work visa (up to 6 months).
• A work permit - more extended permit (1 to 3 years).

13. Ireland - Over 10,200

Emigrating to Ireland has many benefits, including low unemployment, crime rates, free schooling, excellent healthcare, convenient travel links, and the possibility of dual citizenship. Over 10,200 South Africans live in Ireland.

Immigration pathways

These are the immigration pathways available for one to move to Ireland:

• Ireland long-stay visa
• Ireland Work Visa
• Ireland long-stay Student visa
• Ireland Join Family Visa
• Ireland Retirement Visa

Requirements to work in Ireland

You need these documents when moving to Ireland for work as a South African citizen:

Read also

Young Libyans finally able to answer call of e-gaming

• An Ireland work visa - an umbrella term for a set of visas allowing non-European Union (EU), non-European Economic Area (EAA), or non-Swiss nationals to work in Ireland.
• A South African passport and other relevant documents.

12. Israel - Over 11,300

The unstable socioeconomic and political situation prevalent in South Africa was the main push factor explaining the desire to leave the country, whereas a strong Jewish and Zionist identity pulled South African Jews to Israel. Over 11,300 South Africans live in Israel. The most famous SA community founded in Israel is Savyon, which remains the wealthiest suburb in Israel.

Immigration pathways

These are the immigration pathways available for one to move to Israel:

• Israeli B/1 visa for work.
• Israeli A/2 Student Visa
• Israeli A/4 visa for spouses, minor children with A/2 student visa holders, and A/3 clergy visa holders.

Requirements to work in Israel

Read also

Soaring prices dampen UK Ramadan celebrations

South Africans moving to Israel for work need either of these documents:

• An Israeli B/1 work visa valid for 30 days.
• Israeli work visa and work permit valid for over 30 days.
• High-tech work visa (HIT for employment in high-tech and cyber companies.

11. Portugal - Over 12,600

Portugal is among the leading countries for South Africans seeking residence in the European Union. It offers a pleasant climate, beautiful landscapes, a relaxed lifestyle, a stable political, economic, and social environment, good infrastructure, and transparent tax rules, all of which attract South Africans. Over 12,600 South Africans live in Portugal.

Immigration pathways

These are the immigration pathways available for one to move to Portugal:

• Portugal Golden Visa
• Portugal D7 Visa
• Portugal Digital Nomad Visa
• Portugal Entrepreneurship Visa
• Portugal Student Visa
• Portugal Family Reunion Visa
• Portugal Retirement Visa

Requirements to work in Portugal

You require either of these documents to relocate to Portugal for work as a South African citizen:

Read also

'It hurts': DR Congo currency drops amid war spending, arrears payments

• Portugal work visa.
• Portugal Golden visa (invest at least €500,000 in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), buy at least €500,000 in property in Portugal, or transfer capital totaling €1.5 million to a Portuguese bank account in your name).
• A Portugal D7 visa.
• Portugal D2 visa.

10. Eswatini - Over 12,700

Owing to relatively better economic conditions than some countries in the region/continent, Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) attracts migrants from other African countries, mainly SA. Over 12,700 South Africans live in Swaziland.

Immigration pathways

A Temporary Residence Permit (TRP) is the only immigration pathway available for one to move to Eswatini.

Requirements to work in Eswatini

South Africans need a work permit only to get employment in Eswatini. It is a temporary residence permit in the country. You need the following documents to apply for an Eswatini work permit:

• A duly completed application form
• A medical certificate
• A cover letter from the employer in Swaziland
• An original certificate of police clearance from your country of origin
• Copies of the applicant’s certificates of qualification for the position, such as a diploma
• Proof that the position was advertised in Swaziland
• A certificate of incorporation for the company
• Two passport photographs

Read also

European aviation sector fears CO2 rules could clip its wings

9. Netherlands - Over 17,500

Netherlands work visa requirements are easy to meet, and 30% of the tax benefits/incentives are extended to skilled migrants who are experts in fields where local Dutch cannot fill certain positions. Over 17,500 South Africans live in the Netherlands.

Immigration pathways

These are the immigration pathways available for one to move to the Netherlands:

• Dutch student visa
• Dutch family reunification visa
• Dutch startup and self-employment visa
• Dutch working holiday visa

Requirements to work in the Netherlands

South Africans who wish to move to the Netherlands for employment need either of these documents:

• A residence permit and a long-stay visa (MVV).
• A Dutch ‘Start-Up’ Visa - The permit allows applicants to gain residence by registering a new company in the Netherlands. It is valid for one year and can be extended.

8. Zimbabwe - Over 19,700

Zimbabwe was a destination country during the colonial era, attracting migrants from the UK and SA who desired to settle there permanently. South Africans no longer see Zimbabwe as a temporary economic opportunity for survival but somewhere to stay and build themselves. Over 19,700 South Africans live there.

Read also

Boon or blight? E-scooters around the world

Immigration pathways

These are the immigration pathways available for one to move to Zimbabwe:

• Visa Regime
• Residence Permits
• Investors Residence Permits
• Business Visitor Permit

Requirements to work in Zimbabwe

South Africans moving to Zimbabwe for work need a work permit valid for 12 months. It can be extended for up to five years. Zimbabwean work permits are available for several categories of expatriates, including:

• Journalists.
• Professionals with specialized rare skills.
• Foreign researchers with clearances from the Research Council of Zimbabwe.
• Short-term employees on six-month contracts with local businesses.

7. Mozambique - Over 20,100

Mozambicans, mainly from the southern region, moved to SA for jobs for over a century. After many years of emigration, especially among highly skilled workers, the abundance of resources and the economic growth Mozambique has recently experienced are now attracting many foreign workers into the country. Over 20,100 South Africans live in Mozambique.

Read also

Paris votes on whether to ban e-scooters for hire

Immigration pathways

These are the immigration pathways available for one to move to Mozambique:

• Business Visa
• Courtesy Visa
• Diplomatic Visa
• Student Visa
• Investment Visa
• Official Visa
• Residence Visa
• Tourist Visa
• Visit Visa
• Work Visa

Requirements to work in Mozambique

South Africans moving to Mozambique for work need a work visa or a business visa.

6. Germany - Over 20,300

Germany has multiple visa programs. Some offer expedited processing, which is always appreciated in any immigration matter. Like other immigrant-friendly countries, Germany prioritizes skilled professionals. Over 20,300 South Africans live in there. There are several ways of immigrating to Germany, including employment, education, business, family reunions, and residence permits.

Immigration pathways

These are the immigration pathways available for one to move to Germany:

• Work (employment) visa
• Study visa
• Self-employment/Business visa
• Family Reunion visa
• Job-seeker visa
• Guest scientist visa
• Training/Internship visa

Requirements to work in Germany

Read also

Swiss watchmakers counting the clock until Chinese tourists return

South Africans moving to Germany for work need these documents:

• A work visa from the German embassy in your country.
• German health insurance.
• A German residence permit from the Immigration/Foreigner’s Office (Ausländerbehörde).

Within five years, you will become eligible for settlement as a permanent resident in Germany.

5. Canada - Over 48,000

The Canadian government accepts skilled immigrant workers, making it one of the easiest countries for South Africans to live in if they have technical skills. Over 48,000 South Africans live in Canada.

Immigration pathways

There are over 80 pathways to immigrate to Canada. Some of these pathways are:

• Express entry as a Federal Skilled Worker (FSW), Canadian Experience Class (CEC), or Federal Skilled Trades (FST)
• Business immigration programs like Quebec Immigration, Investor Programs, Entrepreneur and Self-Employed Programs, and Provincial Nominee Programs
• Sponsorship for spouse, child, or grandchild
• Humanitarian and Refugee Immigration

Requirements to work in Canada

Read also

UK claims post-Brexit win by sealing trans-Pacific trade pact membership

South Africans can move to Germany for employment by joining these programs:

• Work visa
• Federal Skilled Worker
• Federal Skilled Tradesperson
• Canadian Experience Class
• Entrepreneur programs
• Farming programs
• Provincial programs

4. New Zealand - Over 73,800

New Zealand is one of the safest and most peaceful places to live. Over 73,800 South Africans live there. Applying for one of New Zealand's work visas is the simplest way to relocate there. The unemployment rate is low; hence, you should find work if you meet the requirements. Student visas are also available for South African students studying in New Zealand.

Immigration pathways

These are the immigration pathways available for one to move to New Zealand:

• Straight to Residence Visa
• Work to Residence Visa
• Care Workforce Work to Residence Visa
• Transport Work to Residence Visa
• Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa

Requirements to work in New Zealand

South Africans can move to New Zealand using either of these documents:

Read also

List of courier companies in Pretoria and their contact details

• The Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa.
• The Straight-to-Residence Visa.
• The Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa.

3. USA - Over 117,300

America is a popular destination for South African expats. Over 117,300 Mzansi citizens live in the US. Application for an immigration visa requires one to have a sponsor in the US who will sign their papers. The sponsor can be one's host family, a prospective employer, or a USA permanent resident. However, there are exceptions to this rule, such as for green card holders.

Immigration pathways

These are the immigration pathways available for one to move to the USA:

• Green Card through a family member
• Green Card through employment
• Visa lottery
• Student Visa
• Humanitarian Visa

Requirements to work in the USA

South Africans can move to the USA for employment using either of these documents:

• A green card.
• First Preference EB1 visa - For people with extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics, including professors and researchers.
• Second Preference EB2 visa - For people with advanced degrees or persons with exceptional ability in the arts, sciences, or business.
• Third Preference EB3 visa - For professionals, skilled workers, and other workers.
• Fourth Preference EB4 visa - For “special immigrants,” including people with religious posts, employees of the US, retired employees of international organizations, etc.
• Fifth Preference EB5 visa - For business investors who invest between $900,000 - $1.8 million in a new business that employs a minimum of 10 full-time US workers.

Read also

Germany to open its doors as labour shortage bites

2. Australia - Over 199,600

Australia is one of the best countries to emigrate to from SA. The country offers a couple of residency options. Over 199,600 South Africans live in Australia. Emigrating to Australia became popular in the 1990s. You must check how much you need to pay during your application since charges for Australian visas vary.

Immigration pathways

These are the immigration pathways available for one to move to Australia:

• Skilled Migration
• Business Migration
• Family Migration

Requirements to work in Australia

South Africans can move to Australia for employment using either of these documents:

• Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa
• Skilled Nominated visa
• Skilled Independent visa
• Training visa
• Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa
• Temporary Graduate visa
• Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) visa
• Skilled Regional (Provisional) visa

1. The United Kingdom - Over 247,300

The UK is the number one easiest to relocate to from South Africa. The cordial relationship between the UK and SA exempted South Africans from requiring a visa to move to the UK until 2009. Over 247,300 South Africans live in the UK.

Read also

California's cannabis black market thrives despite legalization

Immigration pathways

These are the immigration pathways available for one to move to the UK:

• Employment Visas like the UK Business and Work Visas
• Family Visas like Fiancé, Spouse, , Child Dependent, and UK Ancestry Visas
• Study Visas like a Child Student visa

Requirements to work in the UK

South Africans can move to the UK for employment using either of these documents:

• Temporary work visa
• Skilled worker visa
• Innovator visa

Factors to consider when immigrating from South Africa

There is more to choosing an emigration destination than just deciding to leave South Africa behind. This choice will be influenced by a number of important aspects.

1. Culture

Determining one's level of readiness for a cultural transformation is essential. This entails studying regional festivals, customs, social norms, food and learning up a new language. A successful cultural adjustment can have a big impact on how happy and satisfied someone is in the new country.

Read also

Geneva watch show opens in throes of banking turmoil

2. Costs

The monetary implications of relocating abroad includes the upfront costs of relocating and the regular expenses of living. Understanding international exchange rates and the purchasing power of one's money in a new nation becomes important given the volatility of the South African Rand.

3. Work

Gaining employment involves more than just landing a job. It's crucial to comprehend the work environment, rights of employees, prospects for advancement, and work-life balance in the new nation. Entrepreneurs may take into account factors like market saturation, ease of doing business, local laws, and innovation potential.

4. Social networks

A support system or community can ease the transition process. Countries with established South African expat communities appeal to those who value relationships and shared experience.

5. Economic stability

Apart from personal financial concerns, the overall economic environment of the selected nation is crucial. Stable economies are frequently associated with predictable costs of living, steady growth prospects, and employment security. On the other hand, There may be difficulties in politically or economically insecure areas.

Read also

Germany braces for transport 'mega-strike'

Why are South Africans leaving South Africa?

Skilled South Africans are moving abroad due to load shedding, unemployment, and high crime rates.

Where do most South Africans emigrate to?

The top five countries South Africans prefer to emigrate to are the UK, Australia, New Zealand, the US, and Canada.

Is it worth moving to Canada from South Africa?

Canada is worth relocating to. The country has welcoming immigration policies, extensive job opportunities, and a high standard of living.

How much money do you need to immigrate to Canada from South Africa?

Individuals need approximately CAD 15,500, couples need around CAD 21,000, while families with children require CAD 25,000 - CAD 30,000 to immigrate to Canada.

What is the easiest country to get permanent residency?

Canada is widely regarded as the easiest country to immigrate to and obtain citizenship. The country has excellent educational programs and job opportunities.

Read also

What are the main causes of unemployment in South Africa in 2024?

Do you need to financially emigrate from South Africa?

Financial emigration from South Africa is not required. Still, it is recommended if you intend to leave the country permanently and want to ensure that you are no longer considered a South African tax resident.

How much money can you take out of South Africa when emigrating?

There is no limit if you move out of SA as a non-resident and can verify the legitimacy of the source of your funds. Nonetheless, you require prior approval from the South African Reserve Bank if the amount exceeds the Foreign Capital Allowance of R10 million.

After discovering the easiest countries to move to from South Africa, do not hold back when an opportunity to relocate from the country presents itself. Growth comes when you put yourself in positions where you will face new challenges.

Briefly.co.za listed the most famous wonders of the world. These marvelous natural and artificial structures provide outstanding viewing experiences.

Some places mentioned in the article are the Parthenon in Athens, St Basil's Cathedral in Russia, and the Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt.

Source: Briefly News