Why It Matters

Leaving South Africa doesn’t mean leaving your finances behind. Whether you’ve relocated permanently, work abroad, or are planning retirement overseas, getting your tax and exchange-control status right is essential to protect your assets and stay compliant with SARS and the Reserve Bank.

What’s Changed

“Financial Emigration” — previously managed by the South African Reserve Bank — was phased out in March 2021. Today, the process sits with SARS as Tax Emigration: formally ceasing your South African tax residency. Once approved, you’re taxed only on South African-sourced income, not worldwide earnings.

How We Help

Currency Assist manages the process from start to finish — coordinating with SARS, authorised dealers, and partner tax practitioners.
We:

• Determine whether you meet the “ordinarily resident” or “physical presence” test.
• Prepare and lodge your tax-non-resident application with SARS.
• Obtain approval for international transfer (AIT) to move funds offshore.
• Facilitate retirement-annuity withdrawals and ensure supporting documents align with compliance requirements.

Common Scenarios

• South Africans working abroad and needing to formalise non-residency.
• Expats selling property or disinvesting in South Africa.
• Beneficiaries inheriting from an SA estate while living overseas.

Why Clients Choose Us

We simplify a process that can take months into a smooth, guided transition.

• Full-service solution – from SARS clearance to fund transfer.
• No hidden fees – transparency is at the core of what we do.
• Responsive experts – you’ll always speak to a specialist, not a call centre.

Ready to review your status?

Simply fill out the form at the bottom of this page and we can get a consultant to come back to you.