Here's Everything You Need to Know about South Africa and Kenya Remote Work Visas

South Africa and Kenya are one of attractive regions for remote workers in Africa, offering vibrant cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and a growing economy.

For this reason and many more, both countries have implemented specific visa programs to accommodate remote workers, making it easier for individuals to live and work while enjoying the countries’ tour-worthy sites. This article will show you remote work visa options available in South Africa and Kenya, and their requirements.

South Africa Work Visa and Requirements

South Africa offers some visa options for foreigners wishing to work in the country. They have the Critical Skills Visa and the General Work Visa. However, the most relevant option for remote workers is the new Remote Work Visitor Visa, aimed at those intending to engage in work that can be done remotely for foreign companies. This means you can live in the country while working for high-paying foreign companies.

We will be looking at the requirements for the new remote work visa in the coming sections of this article.

Eligibility Requirements

Here are some requirements that applicants must meet to qualify for a South African visa include the new remote work visa;

Employment Offer: Foreign workers who intend to get a South African Digital Nomad visa should get an employment or engagement offer with an employer outside of South Africa. Remote workers do not need to have a regular employment offer from a South African organization or company but they need to show that they are engaged in legal work for an overseas employer.

Revenue Services: Digital nomads working for more than six months within a 36-month period would be required to register with the South African Revenue Services. 

Health and Behaviour: A medical examination report and police clearance certificate are ideally required to ensure that applicants are not at health risk and have no serious criminal history.

Financial Capacity and Stability: Like most visa requirements, applicants must show proof of sufficient financial resources to support themselves in South Africa. This is often proven by providing bank statements or income declarations.

Duration and Validity: The remote work visitor visa is valid for up to three years and can be renewed if the applicant continues to meet the requirements and remains in good behaviour in the country.

Application Procedure: The application must be submitted to the nearest South African embassy with the required documents.

The Department of Home Affairs in South Africa will publish more details on the new development in an official gazette in the coming months.

Kenya Remote Work Visa and Requirements

Kenya has recently introduced a Remote Work Visa program to attract digital nomads and remote workers looking to experience the country's unique culture and natural beauty. This initiative aims to improve Kenya's economy and promote its status as a centre for innovation and technology.

Eligibility Requirements

The new Kenya Remote Work Visa has specific requirements that applicants must meet and prove:

Proof of Employment: Applicants must provide proof of remote employment with a foreign company or proof of their business outside the country.

Health Insurance: Applicants are required to have sorted health insurance that covers them for the duration of their stay in Kenya. This is essential to ensure access to healthcare services while living in the country.

Financial Means: Candidates must also demonstrate their ability to financially support themselves during their stay in Kenya. This usually involves submitting their bank statements or proof of income.

Application Process: Applications can be submitted online through the official Kenya immigration website. Applicants will be required to provide all necessary documentation and pay the relevant fees.

Duration and Fees: Kenya’s Remote Work Visa is valid for up to one year, with the possibility of an extension. Application fees vary based on the visa duration and process.

Proof of Accommodation: Applicants of the new remote work visa need to prove that they have already sorted their accommodation for their stay in Kenya.

Conclusion

South Africa and Kenya provide exciting new offers for remote workers looking to explore new opportunities without sacrificing their careers. With their respective work visa provisions, these countries are embracing the future of work and welcoming digital nomads to experience their rich cultures and communities.