Easy Digital Nomad Visas for South African Citizens

There are several affordable countries that offer relatively easy or flexible visa options for South African  digital nomads:

1. Mexico: South African citizens can apply for a long-term “Temporary Residency” visa, which allows them to stay in the country for up to four years and work remotely.
2. Estonia: South African citizens can apply for a “Digital Nomad Visa” which allows them to live and work in Estonia for up to a year. There is an option to become an e-resident of the country which has amazing perks.
3. Costa Rica: South African citizens can apply for a “Rentista” visa, which allows them to live in the country for up to two years and work remotely.
4. Thailand: South African citizens can apply for a “Non-Immigrant O-A (Long Stay)” visa which allows them to stay in the country for up to one year.
5. Croatia: South African Digital nomad visa – Croatia offers digital nomad visa from January 2021. South African citizens require a tourist visa to enter Croatia. 
6. Georgia: The new digital nomad hub with a straightforward digital nomad visa application and excellent conditions for relocating
7. Czech Republic (Czechia): Entrepreneurship visa, Zivno Visa
8. Mauritius: No visa for South African citizens is required
9. Seychelles: No visa for South African citizens is required
10. Serbia: Stay long-term by opening a company and enjoy a vibrant and affordable lifestyle.
11. Argentina:  As of May 2022, Argentina offers a digital nomad visa for employed and self-employed remote workers including South African citizens
12. Bali: “Second home visa” allows digital nomads to live and work in the country for a year to up to 10 years. A great long-term plan.
13. Bulgaria: Live in this affordable country full of natural beauty for up to a year with flexible visa options that allow you to live and work in the country.
14. Romania: Digital nomad visa

Please note that visa requirements and processes can change, it’s always good to double-check with the country’s embassy for the most recent information and requirements.

Please note that visa-free travel may be subject to certain conditions and it is always best to check with the embassy or consulate of the country you plan to visit for the most up-to-date information.

Use websites like Nomadlist or Numbeo to double-check the cost of living, internet quality and other parameters.

Mexico digital nomad visa for South African citizens

Mexico doesn’t have a proper digital nomad visa yet but has some convenient visa options that allow you to live and work in the country worry-free.

As a South African citizen, you can obtain a long-term visa for Mexico by following these steps:

• Check if you meet the eligibility requirements for a digital nomad visa, such as having sufficient financial means ( $2,237 in proof of savings, or a minimum of $37,289 per year) to support yourself during your stay in Mexico.
• Obtain a passport that is valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into Mexico.
• Complete the online visa application form and pay the visa fee.
• Provide supporting documents, such as a police clearance certificate and proof of health insurance, as required by the Mexican authorities.
• Attend an in-person appointment at the Mexican embassy in South Africa to submit your application and supporting documents.

It’s recommended to check the latest requirements and application process with the Mexican embassy in South Africa, as the requirements and process can change.

More in-depth information can be found here!

Mexico: South African citizens can apply for a long-term “Temporary Residency” visa. Official website: Temporary Resident Visa

Cost of living in Mexico

The monthly cost of living in Mexico can vary depending on the city, lifestyle, and individual choices. However, I can provide you with a rough estimate based on the average expenses for a single person living in Mexico City.

Accommodation: Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center: $400-$600 USD. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center: $300-$400 USD

Groceries: Basic groceries for a single person: $150-$200 USD. Eating out at a mid-range restaurant: $10-$15 USD per meal

Transportation: Public transportation (bus or metro): $0.30-$0.50 USD per trip. Monthly pass for public transportation: $20-$30 USD

Utilities: Electricity, water, and gas for a small apartment: $40-$60 USD. Internet (10 Mbps, unlimited data): $25-$30 USD

So, in total, the estimated monthly cost of living in Mexico City for a single person would be around $800-$1,100 USD. 

And yes, it is possible to live a comfortable life with $1000 USD a month in Mexico! Find out how people do it here! If you are a remote worker wanting to relocate to Mexico, it’s best to get some insight into how it is to live in Mexico as a digital nomad.

Estonia digital nomad visa 

Requirements for a digital nomad visa are as follows:

1. The current requirement is €3504 per month
2. You work for an employer that is registered in a foreign country and you have a contract of work with that employer;
3. You conduct business activity for a company that is registered in a foreign country and of which you are a partner/shareholder; or
4. You offer freelance or consulting services mostly to clients, whose permanent establishments are in a foreign country, and with whom you have contracts.

You can apply through  several channels

1. At your local Estonian Embassy or Consulate. 

2. Within Estonia at a Police or Border Guard Office. 

3. You will need to legally travel to your nearest Estonian Representation that handles visa applications if there is not a consulate in your area

4. Travel to Estonia on a tourist passport

More information and application forms can be found on the official website.

Estonia: South African citizens can apply for a “Digital Nomad Visa.” Official website: Digital Nomad Visa

Get a glimpse of life in Estonia as an expat with our guide! If you choose to live in Tallin, as many do, you might want to know what to expect living in Tallin as a foreigner.

Cost of living in Estonia 

Accommodation: Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center: $500-$800 USD. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center: $400-$600 USD

Groceries: Basic groceries for a single person: $150-$200 USD. Eating out at a mid-range restaurant: $10-$20 USD per meal

Transportation: Public transportation (bus or tram): $1.20-$2.00 USD per trip. Monthly pass for public transportation: $30-$40 USD

Utilities: Electricity, water, and gas for a small apartment: $100-$150 USD. Internet (10 Mbps, unlimited data): $20-$30 USD (depending on the provider and package)

Other expenses: Personal care products (toiletries, haircuts, etc.): $30-$50 USD. Entertainment (movies, concerts, etc.): $10-$20 USD

Health insurance: $100-$150 USD

So, in total, the estimated monthly cost of living in Tallinn, Estonia for a single person would be around $1,000-$1,500 USD.

Costa Rica

What are the requirements for the Costa Rica digital nomad visa?

• Financial requirements: $3,000 USD per month for a single person, and $4,000 USD per month for a family.
• Health and medical insurance that is valid for the entire duration of your stay in Costa Rica.
• Fees: A digital nomad visa (DNV) granting fee as determined by the Directorate.
• Proof you are a digital nomad, including and not limited to: an employment contract, a statement that you are allowed to work abroad, client contracts and proof of company ownership for entrepreneurs.
• General Law of Migration: additional requirements for specific cases, such as additional fees, proof of accommodation and resources.

If you want a more clear and robust insight into what it takes to obtain a digital nomad visa in Costa Rica, follow this link. Get accustomed to what its like to live in Costa Rica as a remote worker by reading this article.

Costa Rica: South African citizens can apply for a “Rentista” visa. Official website: Digital Nomads: Live and Work

Cost of living in Costa Rica

Accommodation: Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center: $400-$700 USD. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center: $300-$500 USD

Groceries: Basic groceries for a single person: $150-$200 USD. Eating out at a mid-range restaurant: $8-$15 USD per meal

Transportation: Public transportation (bus or train): $0.50-$1.00 USD per trip. Monthly pass for public transportation: $30-$40 USD

Utilities: Electricity, water, and gas for a small apartment: $50-$80 USD. Internet (10 Mbps, unlimited data): $30-$50 USD (depending on the provider and package)

Health insurance: $70-$100 USD

So, in total, the estimated monthly cost of living in San Jose, Costa Rica for a single person would be around $800-$1,200 USD.

Thailand

A dream destination where many want to relocate too. How can you do it as well?
One way is to enter on a tourist visa and do border runs every 90 days, another is to apply for a long-term visa.

Since there is not an official digital nomad visa in Thailand, it is best to choose some of the other options provided! We’ve investigated all of them and created this guide!

Thailand is great for digital nomads coming from all walks of life and financial capability. Moreover, it is a good place to do some bootstrapping and work on your networking, build your business, and earn more money – all explained here. 

Thailand: South African citizens can apply for a “Non-Immigrant O-A (Long Stay)” visa. Official website: Non-Immigrant Visa O-A (Long Stay)

Cost of living in Thailand

Accommodation: Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center: $300-$600 USD. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center: $200-$400 USD

Groceries: Basic groceries for a single person: $150-$200 USD. Eating out at a mid-range restaurant: $5-$10 USD per meal

Transportation: Public transportation (bus or train): $0.30-$1.50 USD per trip. Monthly pass for public transportation: $20-$30 USD

Utilities: Electricity, water, and gas for a small apartment: $50-$100 USD. Internet (10 Mbps, unlimited data): $15-$30 USD (depending on the provider and package)

Other expenses: Personal care products (toiletries, haircuts, etc.): $20-$40 USD. Entertainment (movies, concerts, etc.): $5-$20 USD

Health insurance: $50-$100 USD

So, in total, the estimated monthly cost of living in Bangkok, Thailand for a single person would be around $700-$1,000 USD. However, please note that this is just an estimate and can vary depending on the individual’s lifestyle and choices. Additionally, costs can be higher in touristy areas or expat communities.

Croatia

Here is a list of documents needed to complete the Croatia digital nomad visa application:

• Proof you are a digital nomad: employment contract, contracts with clients, company ownership confirmation or confirmation of self-employment
• Proof of funds: a bank account statement or proof of regular inflow of funds
• Copy of your passport
• Proof of current travel health insurance coverage 
• A background check supplied by the government of your home country
• A Croatian address: confirmation of your short-term rental

More in-depth information can be found here!

Croatia: South African citizens can apply for a Digital Nomad visa. Official website: Temporary stay of digital nomads

Cost of living in Croatia

For a single person living in Zagreb, the capital city of Croatia.

Accommodation: Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center: $450-$750 USD. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center: $350-$550 USD

Groceries: Basic groceries for a single person: $150-$200 USD. Eating out at a mid-range restaurant: $10-$20 USD per meal

Transportation: Public transportation (bus or tram): $1.50-$2.00 USD per trip. Monthly pass for public transportation: $35-$45 USD

Utilities: Electricity, water, and gas for a small apartment: $100-$150 USD. Internet (10 Mbps, unlimited data): $25-$40 USD (depending on the provider and package)

Other expenses: Personal care products (toiletries, haircuts, etc.): $30-$50 USD. Entertainment (movies, concerts, etc.): $10-$20 USD

Health insurance: $50-$100 USD

So, in total, the estimated monthly cost of living in Zagreb, Croatia for a single person would be around $1000-$1,200 USD.

Georgia digital nomad visa for South African citizens

The main requirements for a Georgia digital nomad visa are:

• You must be a citizen of one of the 95 countries eligible for the visa
• A monthly income of at least $2,000 USD (€1,670) or savings of at least $24,000 USD
• Health insurance coverage for at least six months 

This country is really digital-nomad friendly with lenient tax laws and cost of living that make life as a remote worker in this country a true enjoyment. You will find it a breeze setting up your remote lifestyle in Georgia and you can start by looking deeper into how to obtain a digital nomad visa in Georgia.

Georgia: The country offers a digital nomad visa under the “Remotely from Georgia” program. Official website: Georgia Digital Nomad Visa

Cost of living Georgia

Georgia is among the most affordable countries on this list. For a single person, monthly expenses would be as follows:

Accommodation: Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center: $300-$500 USD. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center: $200-$400 USD

Groceries: Basic groceries for a single person: $100-$150 USD. Eating out at a mid-range restaurant: $5-$10 USD per meal

Transportation: Public transportation (bus or metro): $0.20-$0.50 USD per trip. Monthly pass for public transportation: $10-$15 USD

Utilities: Electricity, water, and gas for a small apartment: $50-$80 USD. Internet (10 Mbps, unlimited data): $15-$25 USD (depending on the provider and package)

Health insurance: $50-$100 USD

So, in total, the estimated monthly cost of living in Tbilisi, Georgia for a single person would be around $550-$900 USD.

Czech Republic entrepreneurship visa

The Czech Republic (Czechia) is one of the many European countries offering a long-term stay. Even though they do not yet have a digital nomad visa, it is possible to live and work remotely in the country long-term and hassle-free. Check out how to do it through the official website.

You can read about the new “Zivno Visa” here.

Another positive trait of this charming country is that its’ capital, Prague, is ranked as one of the safest European cities.

Cost of living in the Czech Republic (Czechia)

For a single person, monthly expenses in the Czech Republic are as follows:

Accommodation: Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center: $600-$900 USD. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center: $400-$600 USD

Groceries: Basic groceries for a single person: $150-$200 USD. Eating out at a mid-range restaurant: $10-$20 USD per meal

Transportation: Public transportation (bus, tram, or metro): $1.50-$2.00 USD per trip. Monthly pass for public transportation: $25-$30 USD

Utilities: Electricity, water, and gas for a small apartment: $100-$150 USD. Internet (10 Mbps, unlimited data): $20-$30 USD (depending on the provider and package)

Health insurance: $50-$100 USD

In total, the estimated monthly cost of living in Prague, Czech Republic for a single person would be around $1,000-$1,500 USD.

Mauritius requires no entry visa for South African citizens

The Mauritius Digital Nomad Visa is valid for one year and is renewable. If you intend to stay in Mauritius for 180 days (6 months) or less then you don’t have to apply for a visa as a South African citizen! If you wish to stay longterm, there are some requirements and fulfilling them will grant you a stay of up to 10 years in the country.

To learn about how to get to this sunny country and start your remote lifestyle, refer to this article.

Accommodation: Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center: $300-$500 USD. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center: $200-$400 USD

Groceries: Basic groceries for a single person: $150-$200 USD. Eating out at a mid-range restaurant: $10-$15 USD per meal

Transportation: Public transportation (bus): $0.50-$1.00 USD per trip. Monthly pass for public transportation: $20-$30 USD

Utilities: Electricity, water, and gas for a small apartment: $50-$80 USD. Internet (10 Mbps, unlimited data): $20-$30 USD (depending on the provider and package)

Health insurance: $50-$100 USD

So, in total, the estimated monthly cost of living in Port Louis, Mauritius for a single person would be around $800-$1,200 USD

Seychelles: No entry visa is required for South African citizens

South African citizens can travel to Seychelles visa-free and stay for 30 days. If they wish to stay long-term, there are some requirements that need to be met. According to companyformationseychelles.com, “ the conditions for relocating to Seychelles from South Africa and obtaining a gainful occupational residence visa are:

• for the person to be of good character, morals, and health,
• for the applicant to be qualified for the activity to undertake in Seychelles,
• for the services he or she offers not to be already available on the Seychelles market,
• for the person to make an important contribution to the local economy and to protect the interests of the country.

It should be noted that this type of residence permit is issued to highly-skilled migrants who can occupy management level positions in Seychelles companies or who can work as self-employed individuals.”

There is also a digital nomad visa that can be obtained in Seychelles from 2022. To find out how and where to apply, advise this article.

Living in the Seychelles is a bit more on the pricier side compared to the other locations on the list and is $1,500 to $3,000 USD. per month for a single person. This would typically cover accommodation, food, transportation, and other basic expenses.

Bali: Digital nomad visa for SA citizens

The new Bali Digital Nomad Visa, which is still in progress, will allow remote workers to live and work tax-free in Indonesia for up to five years. As with most permits, certain conditions have to be fulfilled to be eligible for this visa. 

If you want to relocate to Bali, this guide will point you towards the cheapest places to live.

Bali is on the verge of introducing a groundbreaking Digital Nomad Visa, specifically designed for remote workers from around the world, including South Africa. This visa, still under development, aims to allow digital nomads to live and work in Indonesia, tax-free, for up to five years. To qualify, applicants must meet certain conditions, which will be outlined in detail upon the visa’s finalization.

For those considering a move to Bali, ample resources are available to help find the most cost-effective living areas. The average cost of living for a single person in Indonesia ranges from $400 to $800 USD per month, exclusive of accommodation costs. This estimate generally includes necessities like food and transportation.

Serbia: Stay Long term

Serbia offers a variety of avenues for South African citizens to establish a long-term presence in the country. One popular route is starting a business or company. While the cost of living in Serbia is gradually increasing, it remains an affordable, safe, and charming destination for expatriates.

In a recent initiative, Serbia has introduced a program that potentially allows individuals to gain citizenship after just one year of residence. This presents a unique opportunity for South Africans looking to settle in Europe.

The cost of living in Serbia remains relatively low, with monthly expenses for a single person estimated to be around $500 to $1,000 USD, covering, food, transportation, and other basic needs.

To get to know this vibrant country, there is a list of resourceful articles. 

Romania: Long-Term Stay Opportunities for South African Citizens

Romania offers an attractive destination for South African digital nomads, blending rich cultural heritage with modern amenities. South Africans can initially enter Romania visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. For those wishing to extend their stay, Romania offers a long-term visa suitable for digital nomads.

As per the official Romanian visa portal, the requirements for obtaining a long-term stay visa include:

• Proof of steady remote income,
• Health insurance coverage for the duration of the stay,
• A clean criminal record.

Romania stands out with its affordable cost of living, where a single person can expect monthly expenses of approximately $600 to $1,200 USD, covering accommodation, food, and other essentials.

Bulgaria: Welcoming South African Digital Nomads with Easy Visa Process

Bulgaria is increasingly becoming a favored destination for digital nomads from South Africa. South African nationals can enter Bulgaria without a visa for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. For longer stays, Bulgaria offers a type D visa, tailored for remote workers.

Key requirements, as outlined on the Bulgarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website, include:

• Evidence of ongoing remote employment or self-employment,
• Adequate health insurance for the stay,
• Proof of accommodation in Bulgaria.

The cost of living in Bulgaria is relatively low, with monthly expenses for a single person ranging from $500 to $1,000 USD. This estimate typically includes utilities and daily expenses.

Argentina: A Digital Nomad Haven for South Africans

Argentina offers an enticing mix of vibrant city life and stunning natural landscapes for South African digital nomads. South Africans can enter Argentina visa-free for up to 90 days. For those looking to stay longer, Argentina provides a temporary residence visa for remote workers.

According to Argentina’s National Immigration Office, requirements for the temporary residence visa include:

• Proof of income from a foreign source,
• Health insurance is valid in Argentina,
• A clear criminal record certificate.

Living in Argentina is moderately priced, with a single person’s monthly expenses ranging from $700 to $1,400 USD, covering accommodation, food, transportation, and other basic necessities.

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