Tax residency in South Africa is determined by two main criteria. You become a tax resident if South Africa is your primary place of residence, or if you meet the physical presence test: being in the country for more than 91 days in the current tax year, more than 91 days in each of the previous five years, and more than 915 days in total over that five-year period.
For tax residents, worldwide income is subject to progressive taxation ranging from 18% to 45%. There are important exemptions available: income from employment abroad is tax-free up to a certain threshold, provided you meet the established requirements. Additionally, you may claim foreign tax credits or rely on double taxation agreements to avoid paying tax twice on the same income.
Foreign assets themselves are not subject to annual taxation. However, when they are disposed of, capital gains tax applies at an effective rate of up to 18% for individuals. These assets also form part of your estate for inheritance tax purposes: 20% on amounts up to a certain threshold and 25% on amounts exceeding it.
Additional taxes for residents include a 20% dividend tax and a 15% VAT on consumption. Estate duty and, in certain cases, donations tax may also apply.
For non-residents, the rules are simpler: tax is levied only on income sourced in South Africa. This makes the country attractive to foreign investors who do not intend to become tax residents but conduct business or hold assets in South Africa.