Safety, standard of living and tax in South Africa?

Hi Arun,

Which part of South Africa were you planning on living in?

In big cities like Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban, for example, you'd have a very different experience than you would in very small towns like Sasolburg or Clarens. That's not to mention all of the other very many towns and cities that aren't small farm villages or metropolises but somewhere in between.

Generally, the cities have more amenities available and are much more developed than some of the smaller towns, but again, this varies (some small towns are better equipped than others). For me personally I'd consider the quality of life higher in the cities – but what constitutes a good quality of life can be different to different people, so it's hard to say if you'd share my perspective. 

The cities tend to have more crime but also better security. South Africa doesn't have a good reputation when it comes to crime, but in all honesty I've found that as long as you aren't careless and take appropriate precautions you should be fine. We have an article about this issue which might help you get a better idea of what I mean: Safety in South Africa.

For a comprehensive overview of taxes in South Africa, please click here.

M

Hi Meagen Thanksfor your reply , I might get relocation as part of my work to Johannseburg from dubai How about the climate in Johannseburg and public transportation and social activities, is Johannseburg a lively city How about scope for women to work in Johannseburg..? Thanks Arun

Hi Arun,

Johannesburg is definitely a lively city with a lot to see and do. There are lots of interesting events and plenty of excellent restaurants to try out. There are some great shopping centres too, like Sandton City and Melrose Arch.

Unfortunately, throughout most of South Africa, public transport isn't well developed and I would definitely recommend owning a car. Johannesburg is, however, home to the Gautrain: a high-speed train network which goes from Johannesburg to Pretoria with a number of stops in between. There is also a network of Gautrain buses that connects to the nearest Gautrain station but the bus network isn't all that extensive either.

The weather can get quite warm in summer - although compared to UAE weather I'm sure South African summer will feel very mild! - with occasional evening thunderstorms. Winter is cool and mostly dry.

Women are relatively equal in business, although executive positions still tend to be occupied by men rather than women.

When would you be moving? Will your company be organising a visa and work permit?

M

Thanks for fast response Meagen .. If i say i am willing to relocate to SA, Company will facilitate everything .visa work permit and other needed facilities Are you native south African , or you moved to capetown from some other country

Yup, I'm a local! Born in Cape Town, but I studied in Pretoria (1 hour's drive from Johannesburg) for four years and lived in Johannesburg itself for another two or three years before moving back to Cape Town.