Frequently Asked Questions about South Africa

Expats considering moving to South Africa are sure to have plenty of questions – so we've put together a list of the most common queries about 'Mzansi' along with some answers.

What is the speed and cost of internet access in South Africa?

South Africa may lag behind the US and Europe in terms of fast and affordable internet access, but not by much, and the country has adequate infrastructure that should allow expats to keep in touch with those back home without hassle. The cost of high-speed, uncapped internet access has been high in the past but is gradually becoming cheaper.

How bad is crime in South Africa?

Much of the crime in South Africa finds its root cause in a society that is deeply divided by income and race. On the one hand, this means most expats are less likely to be on the receiving end of violent crimes, but on the other hand, crimes of theft such as burglary and hijacking are a possibility. For this reason, we advise taking safety precautions and maintaining an overall sense of awareness.

Is it worth learning an African language?

Expats won't need to learn Afrikaans, isiXhosa or isiZulu to get by, as just about everyone can speak at least some English. However, it's worth mentioning that by making the effort to learn a local language, expats can deepen their experience of the country, given that the majority of the population speak one of these three languages as a mother tongue.

Is it affordable and easy to hire domestic staff?

Many expats find the affordability of domestic staff and nannies to be a big advantage of living in South Africa. There are numerous agencies to assist with screening and recruiting.