Reasons Behind South Africans’ Ongoing Migration to New Zealand

In 2024, 10% of the 40,000 people granted New Zealand citizenship were South Africans, making them the third largest overseas-born group to receive this honor.

Recent census data shows that more than 95,000 South Africans now call New Zealand home, a notable rise from 71,382 in 2018.

From January to July 2025, close to 1,700 visa applications were filed by South Africans (including dependents), highlighting New Zealand’s continued allure.

According to the New Zealand Department of Internal Affairs, South Africans have overtaken Filipinos as the third largest overseas-born group granted citizenship in 2024, with 4,132 South Africans becoming citizens, up from 3,387 in 2023.

This pattern is reaffirmed in the 2024 Migration Report by Statistics South Africa, which identifies New Zealand as one of the top five destinations for South Africans abroad since 2010.

The New Zealand government provides comprehensive and current data regarding visa applications, issued and declined visas, as well as residency status. As of the end of July 2025, 29,600 South Africans were residing in New Zealand under valid residence visas, applicable to individuals who have held residency for five years or less. After five years, they are recognized as citizens for census purposes and are no longer counted separately.

What attracts South Africans to New Zealand

Quinton Keyser, Network and Growth Manager for CENTURY 21 New Zealand, highlights that the high quality of life, safety, and stunning landscapes primarily draw South Africans to the country.

Many seek lucrative job prospects or wish to reunite with family members already in New Zealand. The predominantly English-speaking environment adds to its appeal.

In 2025, New Zealand secured the top spot in the Global Life Work Balance Index for the third consecutive year, as reported by Remote, a global HR software provider. This index evaluates factors like paid leave (which totals 32 days for New Zealanders), access to healthcare, and robust regulations such as paid parental leave (up to 26 weeks to support families).

And of course, rugby plays a significant role. This shared passion fosters a fierce yet respectful rivalry between the two nations that transcends generations.

Financial and tax matters for those leaving South Africa

Emigrating involves more than simply packing your belongings and shipping them. John-Paul Fraser, an emigration tax specialist at Tax Consulting South Africa, emphasizes the importance of tackling essential tax, financial planning, banking, and compliance issues. This is crucial for South Africans considering a move to New Zealand, those already in the relocation process, or even those who left long ago without correctly completing the exit process.

There are several vital aspects to address, all interconnected:

Ability to transfer funds from South Africa

Incorrect tax and exchange control status can hinder your ability to transfer money out of South Africa. The procedures for moving money in and out of the country have evolved, and obtaining the correct tax status with SARS is vital. Your bank will not authorize transfers without a valid tax clearance from SARS. This clearance is only granted if your non-resident status is accurate and your records are current. SARS utilizes advanced technology, including third-party data and AI, making compliance with proper procedures crucial for moving funds.

SARS tax status and exit taxes

It’s essential to inform SARS through the correct process and pay any necessary exit taxes. Some assets incur exit tax, while others are exempt. Strategic planning can help minimize these tax liabilities.

Financial planning and banking

Comprehensively reviewing your retirement savings, policies, bank accounts, and potential inheritances is essential to prevent errors.

A holistic approach

Choosing a single holistic advisor instead of multiple separate advisors is crucial. What appears to be the best advice from a financial planning perspective may not be optimal from a tax perspective or when transferring money abroad. Some advisors may focus on earning fees from limited solutions rather than addressing the specific needs of clients.

Simplicity is key

Complicated processes or costly solutions are often unnecessary. Tax Consulting offers legal privilege, ensuring sensitive issues can be resolved securely.

What South Africans should know about buying property in New Zealand

Keyser points out that purchasing residential property in New Zealand is mainly limited to citizens and resident visa holders, making eligibility an important factor for South African buyers.

South Africans might find property prices surprising, necessitating careful financial planning. As of June 2024, the median house price in New Zealand was NZD$770,000 (approximately R8.3 million), compared to South Africa’s median of around R937,000 (roughly NZD$87,450).

The rental market often serves as an initial step for relocating South Africans. Due to limited supply in desirable areas, prospective foreign tenants should begin their searches early and consider engaging local real estate agents.

Ensuring a successful property purchase

According to Keyser, prospective buyers should first consult a mortgage broker for financial pre-qualification and establish a clear budget, a service typically provided at no cost to the buyer.

Once a suitable property is found, a formal sale and purchase agreement is created. Keyser highlights the necessity of having this document carefully reviewed by the buyer’s solicitor before signing. After acceptance of the offer, the agreement enters a conditional phase, allowing for essential due diligence, including finalizing financing, obtaining a satisfactory building report, and reviewing the Land Information Memorandum (LIM). When all conditions are met and both parties are satisfied, the agreement becomes unconditional and legally binding.

“The experience of buying a residential property in New Zealand can be remarkably efficient for those who are well-prepared.”

Settle Smarter: Get the right guidance from the start

While New Zealand is welcoming to skilled migrants, navigating the relocation process requires appropriate guidance and expertise.

Working with licensed immigration advisors and cross-border tax professionals can reduce stress, ensure compliance, and enhance your likelihood of success.

Tanya Tosen is a tax and remuneration expert at Tax Consulting SA.

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