What paperwork do you need after moving to South Africa in 2026?

Finish the correct temporary residence path before shopping for lifestyle extras. Critical Skills, general work, study, relative, and retired-person visas are different products lodged through VFS or a mission: Residence or work permit. Extend in-country at least 60 calendar days before expiry. Immigration regulations also require visa and permanent-residence holders who change address or contact details to notify the Director-General within 14 days on Form 50, so update DHA when you leave an Airbnb for a longer lease.

Secure housing a landlord will put on paper: How to rent a home. Suburb choice shapes transport and school runs later: Where to live.

RICA a local mobile number early for landlords, banks, and VFS SMS. Open a bank account once the temporary residence endorsement and address proof exist. Price private medical aid as a fixed line rather than relying only on public queues: Healthcare costs.

Connect prepaid electricity, fibre, and load-shedding backups under utilities, internet, and transport. Drive on a compliant foreign licence during temporary stay, then plan DLTC exchange if permanent residence arrives: Convert a driving licence. Workers usually need a SARS income-tax reference number; many employers register employees, or you register with passport and permit evidence through SARS channels and keep the IT150 notice. Pet arrivals need DALRRD veterinary import permits before the flight: Bring pets.

English covers most VFS and bank desks in Cape Town, Johannesburg, Pretoria, and Durban, yet original civil documents may still need sworn translation. Keep digital and paper copies of every VFS receipt, SAQA letter, medical report, and lease. If you change estates in Sandton or move from Sea Point to the Southern Suburbs, update bank FICA address proof and the DHA Form 50 contact record in the same week so debit orders and visa files stay aligned.