The Verdict: Clear Path
You meet the remote work visa's income test. Gather the payslips, contracts and bank statements that show the income from abroad, then apply for a visa of up to three years.
The remote work visa is a kind of visitor's visa, introduced by regulations in May 2024 and in force from October 2024. It needs a gross income of at least R1 million a year from an employer or clients outside South Africa.
Tax turns on how long you stay. If the visa covers no more than six months in any 36-month period, you can apply to be exempted from registering with the South African Revenue Service; beyond that, registration is required. Long stays can also make you tax resident, so take tax advice first if you might stay longer.
You may not work for a South African employer or client on this visa. Time on it does not count towards permanent residence or citizenship, so staying for good needs another route, such as work, business, net worth or family.