Here’s why the new visa is a fantastic opportunity — and how it transforms the downsides of short-term stays into a richer, more fulfilling experience.
Short-term stays mean relying on expensive accommodation options like Airbnb, Booking.com, or other rental platforms. These services are convenient for travelers, but they often come with steep premiums, especially in Cape Town’s peak tourism season from November to February.
Longer stays, however, allow you to secure better deals on monthly rentals, or even explore more budget-friendly alternatives like furnished apartments, guesthouses, or co-living spaces.
South Africa is a vast and diverse country. When you’re limited to 90 days, balancing work deadlines with travel plans can feel overwhelming. There’s simply too much to see and experience — whether it’s hiking in the Drakensberg, whale-watching in Hermanus, or exploring the Big Five in one of South Africa’s game reserves. The digital nomad visa gives you the time to immerse yourself without feeling rushed.
Making meaningful connections with locals takes time, so living here longer changes everything. Joining a coworking space or becoming part of local meetups — whether for hiking, art, or yoga — can fast-track your integration into the community.
As a tourist hotspot, Cape Town offers a high quality of life at a fraction of the cost you’d expect in many major cities around the world. While seasonal accommodation rates can be steep, longer stays let you take advantage of off-peak pricing or negotiate discounts with landlords.
Beyond housing, everyday expenses like dining out, transport, and utilities are incredibly affordable for those earning in stronger currencies like the dollar, euro, or pound.
Check out Numbeo to get a rough idea around the cost of living.
The digital nomad visa allows you to dive deeper into what makes South Africa unique. Instead of rushing to tick off major attractions, you can savour the journey.
The Garden Route, for example, is a treasure trove of farm stalls, hidden beaches, and quirky towns like Knysna and Wilderness. A longer stay means you don’t just see the sights; you live the experience.
In Cape Town, there's surfing at Muizenberg to wine-tasting in Constantia - every neighborhood has its own charm. You could spend weeks simply discovering the city’s markets, art galleries, and vibrant food scene.
When you stay longer, you’re not just a visitor — you become part of the fabric of the community. Locals are often the best source of insider tips, whether it’s finding the freshest produce at a hidden market or discovering a secret beach far from the tourist crowds.
For digital nomads, coworking spaces are invaluable. These spaces aren’t just about fast Wi-Fi and coffee — they’re hubs for meeting like-minded people, exchanging ideas, and building a sense of belonging in a new city.
In October 2024, the South African government released updated details for the digital nomad visa. Here’s what we know so far:
This visa is a significant step forward in making South Africa a top destination for digital nomads.
Download the government gazette Remote Work Visa – requirements – 9 Oct 2024 here.
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