Retire in south africa!
Your Trusted South African Residence and Retirement Immigration Experts
Welcome to Retire in South Africa, your specialist partner for South African immigration and residence structuring.
We assist affluent individuals, high-net-worth foreign nationals and financially independent applicants with structuring their long-term or seasonal residence in South Africa. Our offering is designed for individuals and families who are considering South Africa as a lifestyle, investment, retirement or property destination and require integrated guidance across the key compliance areas.
With over 10 years of experience, we are a recognised authority in helping foreign nationals navigate the South African immigration process with confidence, clarity and compliance.
Our service extends beyond visa preparation. We provide coordinated support across immigration, tax, exchange control, cross-border banking and related regulatory considerations to ensure that each client’s South African residence journey is structured correctly from the outset.
Why Retire in South Africa?
South Africa is fast becoming a top retirement destination, offering:
- No minimum age requirement for Retired Person Visa
- Access to South African Permanent Residence Permits A favourable tax and estate planning environment.
- Excellent healthcare, lifestyle, and low cost of living.
- Strong tax, banking and exchange control planning opportunities when structured correctly.
Whether you are looking for an active lifestyle, a seasonal residence base, a property investment destination or a more permanent move, South Africa offers a compelling combination of lifestyle and financial advantages.
Our Retirement Immigration Services
We offer a 100% success rate in securing retirement visas for South Africa, thanks to our holistic and strategic approach. Our comprehensive services include:
- Retired Person Visa applications
- Accompanying dependant or Study Visa applications
- Assistance with obtaining ad hoc work/business authorisation
- Permanent Residence Permit applications
- Legal and compliance guidance
- Exchange control and tax planning
- Estate planning and wealth protection
We handle every aspect of your move, from legal paperwork to tax advisory, ensuring a smooth transition into your new life in South Africa.
Meet Our Experts
Our team of experienced professionals brings legal, financial, and immigration expertise:
Jerry Botha
Managing Partner
Marisa Jacobs
Managing Director
Keri Culver
Senior Immigration Consultant
Manfred Barnard
Senior Immigration Consultant
Stephanus Ungerer
Immigration Consultant
Muzi Hlatshwayo
Submission Specialist
Our success is built on transparency, professionalism, and personalised service. We understand the complexities of retiring abroad and provide tailored solutions for each client.
What Our Clients Are Saying
Frequently Asked Questions
The Retired Person Visa allows foreign nationals who can support themselves financially to live in South Africa during their retirement years. It can be issued on a temporary or permanent basis depending on the applicant’s financial circumstances.
You qualify if you can prove a monthly income of at least ZAR 37,000 (± USD 2,000) through:
- Pensions.
- Annuities.
- Investments.
- Rental income.
- Other passive sources.
You do not need to be officially retired or over a certain age.
- Temporary Residence: Issued for up to 4 years at a time, renewable.
- Permanent Residence: Can be applied for if your income is guaranteed for life
Applicants can choose to apply for both (or start with temporary and upgrade later).
Yes. You must provide proof of comprehensive health insurance that will cover you for the duration of your stay in South Africa.
Not by default. This Visa is intended for those not seeking employment. However, you may apply for authorisation to conduct part-time or passive income-generating activities on a case-by-case basis.
Yes. You can include your spouse, life partner, or dependents in your application. Each person must submit their own documents, but they can be grouped under your Visa as the primary applicant.
Key documents include:
- Proof of monthly income (bank statements, pension slips, etc.).
- Valid passport.
- Medical and radiological reports.
- Police clearance (from all countries lived in for 12+ months).
- Proof of medical insurance.
- Completed DHA application forms.
- Marriage or birth certificates (if applying with dependents).
Yes. Foreigners on a Retired Person Visa can legally buy property in South Africa, though you may face stricter rules for mortgages or financing. Many retirees choose this visa to live in a home they have purchased.
Yes. If your income is guaranteed for life (e.g., through a pension or annuity), you may qualify for permanent residence under the Retired Persons Permit category. You can apply directly or after holding temporary residence.
- Temporary Residence: 8–12 weeks (varies by country and embassy).
- Permanent Residence: 12–24 months, depending on Department of Home Affairs processing backlogs
Planning ahead is crucial due to these lead times.
Trusted Partnerships
These strategic partnerships ensure that you receive end-to-end service for your retirement journey – from visa approvals to tax efficiency.
Ready to Retire in South Africa?
Make your dream retirement a reality with the guidance of trusted professionals. Whether you are ready to apply now or just exploring your options, our team is here to help.
Contact us today to begin your seamless relocation to South Africa.
