//Insight
Making International Transfers Simple and Stress-Free
“I tried to handle my overseas transfer through my bank, and after weeks of delays, I still had no progress. Currency Assist stepped in, managed the SARS paperwork, and had my funds in my London account within days.”
— Client, now based in the UK
Business & Payroll
Buying a holiday home in Portugal. Paying for your child’s overseas studies. Sending money to family abroad. Or even covering the bill for a destination wedding.
There are countless reasons South Africans need to move money across borders — but one common challenge: it’s never as simple as it should be.
That’s where Currency Assist comes in.
The allowances you need to know about
South African residents have two main ways to transfer funds internationally.
1. The Single Discretionary Allowance (SDA)
- Up to R1 million per year
- No tax clearance needed
- Perfect for everyday overseas needs: gifts, tuition, card payments, investments, or even a small property deposit
2. The Approval for International Transfer (AIT)
- Up to R10 million per year
- Requires a SARS Tax Compliance Status (TCS Pin Letter)
- Ideal for larger commitments like buying offshore property, building a global portfolio, or investing in businesses abroad
If you need to transfer more than R10 million in a year, you’ll need both AIT and Reserve Bank approval.
Why people get stuck
The rules might look straightforward on paper, but in practice, exchange control can feel overwhelming. Supporting documents, tax compliance, bank submissions, Reserve Bank requirements — each step has its own pitfalls.
How Currency Assist helps
Our team is here to make the process smooth and stress-free. We:
- Save you time and effort by handling all submissions on your behalf
- Ensure compliance with SARS and SARB every step of the way
- Work on a fixed service fee (never commission-based), so you know exactly what you’re paying
- Keep you informed throughout, so you’re never left guessing where your money is
Your next step
If you’re planning an international transfer — big or small — don’t let paperwork or compliance stand in the way.
Complete our online form today, and a Currency Assist consultant will be in touch to guide you from start to finish.
“I was worried about transferring a large amount to buy property abroad. Currency Assist not only got it done quickly, but also explained the process in plain English. I felt in control the whole time.”
— Client, now based in Mauritius
Have a Question about International Transfers?
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Currency Assist Insight Series
Read on, and discover how Currency Assist can make your international money matters simpler, faster, and safer — so you can focus on what’s ahead, not on the red tape behind.

How to Transfer Your South African Inheritance Abroad
Receiving an inheritance in South Africa but living overseas? Here’s how to get it safely to you.

How South African Expats Can Cash Out Their Retirement Annuity
The new rules for accessing your RA abroad — and how to move the funds offshore.

Tax on Worldwide Income
Do South Africans abroad still pay tax on global earnings? Here’s what you need to know.