Emigrating to a new country is a significant decision, and finding a destination with favourable permanent residency options can make the transition smoother. For South Africans considering a move abroad, here are five countries where obtaining permanent residency is relatively straightforward.
1. Portugal
Portugal has become a popular destination for South Africans, thanks to its Golden Visa programme. This residency-by-investment scheme offers several pathways to permanent residency:
Key Benefits:
- Investment Options: Purchase real estate worth €500,000 or more, invest €350,000 in property in urban regeneration areas, or make a capital transfer of €1 million.
- Family Inclusion: Immediate family members can also be included in the application.
- Residency Requirements: Stay in Portugal for just seven days in the first year and 14 days in subsequent two-year periods.
- Citizenship: After five years of residency, applicants can apply for Portuguese citizenship.
Portugal’s blend of a high quality of life, mild climate, and welcoming locals makes it an attractive option for South Africans seeking a new home in Europe.
2. Mauritius
Mauritius, a tropical paradise in the Indian Ocean, offers a straightforward pathway to permanent residency through its Residency by Investment programme.
Key Benefits:
- Investment Options: Invest a minimum of $375,000 in real estate or other approved sectors.
- Work and Live: The residency permit allows you to work, live, and even start a business in Mauritius.
- Family Inclusion: Immediate family members are included in the application.
- Permanent Residency: After three years of holding an Occupation Permit, you can apply for a permanent residence permit, which is valid for 20 years.
With its beautiful beaches, stable economy, and proximity to South Africa, Mauritius is an appealing choice for those looking to relocate.
3. Canada
Canada is renowned for its welcoming attitude towards immigrants and offers various pathways to permanent residency that are accessible to South Africans.
Key Benefits:
- Express Entry System: A points-based system that assesses skills, work experience, language ability, and other factors.
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP): Provinces and territories can nominate individuals for permanent residency based on their specific economic needs.
- Family Sponsorship: If you have a close relative in Canada, they can sponsor your application for permanent residency.
- Quality of Life: Canada offers a high standard of living, excellent healthcare, and education systems.
Canada’s multicultural environment and diverse opportunities make it a top choice for South Africans seeking a new beginning.
4. New Zealand
New Zealand offers several immigration pathways that can lead to permanent residency, making it an attractive destination for South Africans.
Key Benefits:
- Skilled Migrant Category: Points-based system that evaluates age, work experience, qualifications, and job offers.
- Residence from Work Visa: Allows those already working in New Zealand to transition to permanent residency.
- Investor Visas: Requires a minimum investment of NZD 3 million.
- Quality of Life: New Zealand is known for its stunning landscapes, excellent healthcare, and strong work-life balance.
New Zealand’s welcoming communities and outdoor lifestyle make it a great place for South Africans to settle.
5. Australia
Australia’s proximity to South Africa and its robust economy make it a popular destination for South Africans seeking permanent residency.
Key Benefits:
- General Skilled Migration Programme: Points-based system that assesses age, English proficiency, work experience, and qualifications.
- Employer-Sponsored Visas: Allows employers to sponsor skilled workers for permanent residency.
- Family Migration: Family members in Australia can sponsor relatives for permanent residency.
- Quality of Life: Australia offers a high standard of living, excellent healthcare, and education systems.
Australia’s vibrant cities, beautiful landscapes, and diverse job opportunities make it an attractive option for South Africans.
Conclusion
Emigrating to a new country is a life-changing decision, but choosing a destination with accessible permanent residency options can simplify the process. Portugal, Mauritius, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia offer some of the easiest pathways for South Africans seeking a fresh start abroad. Each of these countries provides unique benefits, from investment opportunities to points-based systems, making them ideal choices for those looking to build a new life outside South Africa.
Top countries you can move to with a South African passport
The United Kingdom
Job Opportunities and Education
The United Kingdom has always been a favourite destination for South Africans. With its rich history, diverse culture, and strong job market, it’s no wonder why. The UK offers various visa options, including the Tier 2 General Visa for skilled workers and the Tier 4 Student Visa for those pursuing higher education.
Visa Requirements
For the Tier 2 General Visa, you will need a job offer from a UK employer who holds a valid Tier 2 sponsorship licence. The Tier 4 Student Visa requires an offer from a recognised UK educational institution, proof of funds to support yourself, and proficiency in English.
Australia
Sun, Surf, and Work-Life Balance
Australia is another top choice for South Africans, thanks to its similar climate, high standard of living, and robust economy. The country offers several visa options, including the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) and the Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (subclass 482).
Visa Requirements
The Skilled Independent Visa is a points-based system that assesses factors like age, work experience, and qualifications. The Temporary Skill Shortage Visa requires a job offer from an Australian employer and relevant work experience in your field.
New Zealand
A Slice of Paradise
New Zealand’s stunning landscapes and friendly locals make it an attractive option. The country provides various visas such as the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa and the Essential Skills Work Visa.
Visa Requirements
For the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa, you’ll need to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and meet the points threshold based on factors like age, work experience, and education. The Essential Skills Work Visa requires a job offer in an occupation where there is a shortage of skilled workers.
Canada
Diverse Opportunities and Quality of Life
Canada’s inclusive society and high quality of life appeal to many South Africans. Popular visa options include the Express Entry system and the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
Visa Requirements
The Express Entry system is a points-based system evaluating factors such as age, education, work experience, and language proficiency. The Provincial Nominee Program allows provinces and territories to nominate individuals who meet their specific labour market needs.
Germany
Strong Economy and Vibrant Culture
Germany, with its robust economy and rich cultural heritage, is becoming increasingly popular among South Africans. The country offers several visa options, including the Job Seeker Visa and the EU Blue Card.
Visa Requirements
The Job Seeker Visa allows you to stay in Germany for up to six months to search for employment. You must have a degree and sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay. The EU Blue Card is for highly skilled workers with a job offer in Germany and a salary that meets the minimum threshold.
United Arab Emirates
Luxury and Tax-Free Income
The UAE, especially cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, attracts many South Africans with its luxurious lifestyle and tax-free income. The country offers various employment visas depending on your job sector and qualifications.
Visa Requirements
Employment visas in the UAE require a job offer from a UAE employer who will also sponsor your visa. Additionally, you’ll need to undergo medical tests and obtain health insurance.
Portugal
Golden Visa Programme
Portugal offers a unique opportunity through its Golden Visa programme, which grants residency to individuals who make a significant investment in the country, such as purchasing property.
Visa Requirements
To qualify for the Golden Visa, you must make an eligible investment, which can include real estate, capital transfer, or creating jobs. This visa also offers a pathway to permanent residency and citizenship.
Mauritius
Island Life and Business Opportunities
Mauritius is an excellent option for those seeking island life and business opportunities. The country offers various permits, including the Occupation Permit for investors, professionals, and self-employed individuals.
Visa Requirements
The Occupation Permit requires you to meet specific investment or income criteria, depending on your category. Investors need to show a minimum investment in a Mauritian company, while professionals must have a job offer with a minimum salary requirement.
Conclusion
Exploring new horizons and moving abroad can be an exciting adventure for South Africans. Whether you are drawn to the vibrant cultures of Europe, the booming economies of the Middle East, or the laid-back island life of Mauritius, there are plenty of options available for South African passport holders. Navigating the visa and emigration process can be complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. Evergration.com offers comprehensive assistance to South Africans seeking help with visas, documents, and the emigration process. Let us help you make your dream of living abroad a reality.