Menu
Minimum Rental Periods
The minimum rental agreement period is typically 1 year. However, a 6 month lease can be negotiated, particularly on a furnished apartment
Required Documents for Signing a Lease
Typical requirements to sign a lease are:
• Valid passport
• Work Visa
• Proof of employment
Standard Security Deposit
The security deposit is equivalent to 1 months rent for unfurnished properties and 2 months’ rent for furnished properties. Sometimes a separate utility deposit is required.
Local Norm for Returning the Security Deposit
The security deposit is returned after completion of inventory, inspection of outstanding refurbishments, and cleaning.
Outstanding payments for utilities, water, electricity, and repairs will be deducted if necessary.
Rental Commission
Should you utilize the services of a real estate agent to help you in your search, agencies usually collect rental commission equal to 6%-10% of the annual rent.
Payment of Rental Commission
The agent’s rental commission is typically paid by the landlord.
Accepted Method of Payment
Wire transfer is the preferred method of payment.
School Fees
Registration/application fee payable when applying. Deposit payable on acceptance of place.
Accepted Method of Payment
Wire transfer is the preferred method of payment.
Additional Notes
South Africa’s schools usually divide their academic year into four terms. The school year starts mid January and ends at the beginning of December.
Private schools typically have low availability particularly in Grade R and Grade 1. It is advisable to apply well in advance if possible. International schools tend to have more availability.
Residency Requirements
When moving to South Africa you may want or need to establish residency. Requirements include obtaining a work and residency permit.
It is advisable to connect with a local expert to identify any additional requirements and advise on support available to assist in meeting the local requirements.
Requirements
Typical documentation required to obtain a driver’s licence include:
• Original and copy of valid passport
• Original and copy of TRN Certificate
• Learners license
• 4 passport size photos
Additional Notes
Expatriates can not obtain a South African driver’s licence unless they become permanent residents. They are entitled to drive on their home country driver’s licences, provided they are in English and have an integrated photograph, for the duration of their assignment. An International Drivers Permit, issued in the home country, is highly recommended.
Required Documents
In order to open a bank account, you may be asked for:
• Valid Passport
• Valid Work Visa endorsement
• Proof of employment / income (i.e. a letter from your employer, your contract of employment or a pay slip)
• Proof of residence (a signed copy of your lease will usually suffice. **Note: Most banks will consider your temporary accommodation as “proof of residence”, as often companies for payroll services require this facility right away)
Time Required
It may take 1-3 days for your account opening to be complete.
Additional Notes
The four major banks are Absa, First National Bank (known as FNB), Standard Bank and Nedbank. All four major banks have good online and mobile banking systems for customer’s day-to-day banking needs.