In the dynamic landscape of 2024, a growing number of South Africans who once left our local shores are now contemplating a return to their roots. The world has evolved significantly over the past few years, prompting many to reassess their choices.
Michelle Phillips
Tax Attorney
For those considering the move back to South Africa, a plethora of factors play a pivotal role, including lifestyle, cost of living, and the allure of affordable luxury in home ownership. While the common saying is that nobody moves solely for the weather, anyone who has experienced a European winter might beg to differ. After all, South Africa is spared from many of the climate extremes that often plague other countries.
As the desire to return gains momentum, our practice has seen an increasing number of expatriates inquiring about the practicalities of coming back to South Africa. One crucial aspect echoes loud and clear: before delving into the detail of the return, individuals must understand their status for tax and exchange control purposes. Our first step is to conduct a thorough examination of our client’s affairs, to provide a roadmap for next steps. This diagnostic is necessary to ensure a well-planned approach to maintaining optimal tax compliance, and includes an evaluation of Reserve Bank status, as well as clarifying the classification of bank accounts as resident or non-resident. Ideally, one will avoid “school fees” by seeking advice from the experts.
A critical point around one’s return to South Africa is the significance of being classified as a non-resident beforehand. Without this, individuals might inadvertently find themselves still considered to be South African tax residents, even if they have physically moved abroad. This distinction is vital to avoid complications down the road and align one’s status with regulatory expectations.
Once non-resident status is confirmed, the focus shifts to structuring one’s affairs intelligently before re-entry. The need for a meticulous evaluation of assets and liabilities cannot be understated, considering the capital being brought back to South Africa. Acquiring property is also a common step, driven by the affordability of housing in South Africa. However, the emphasis is on doing it correctly – there is a wrong way to go about things, which can prove expensive and difficult to unwind later on.
Navigating the tax implications of various assets and incomes such as foreign pensions, rental income, and offshore trusts requires a detailed roadmap. This plan helps individuals make informed choices on what to bring into South Africa, what to leave abroad, and how to structure assets for maximum tax efficiency. The goal is to avoid pitfalls and make the right moves based on a thorough understanding of the tax landscape.
A common misconception among expatriates is the idea of the remittance basis of tax in South Africa. Unlike certain other commonwealth countries, South Africa does not cater to this, but taxes worldwide income for residents regardless of whether or not such funds are remitted into the country. Understanding this distinction is paramount to prevent financial missteps upon return.
For higher net worth individuals, the spectre of estate duty looms large. Proper structuring becomes imperative to avoid hefty taxes on worldwide assets. Without thoughtful planning, a significant portion of an estate could be lost to a 25% tax rate where asset values exceed R30 million, before even considering capital gains tax and any other dues. This makes South Africa less attractive for wealthy retirees who re-enter South Africa without a well-planned and executed approach.
When making the journey back home, strategically navigating the South African residency tests is a crucial component. Unlike some other countries, South Africa offers a highly nuanced approach to tax residency, providing some flexibility to those returning. It is well worth discussing this aspect with one’s advisor ahead of time, to avoid potential errors that may prove costly further down the line.
For those considering working in South Africa upon their return, it is critical to have an understanding of the cost structure for setting up a business. Establishing a South African company is cost-effective and efficient, especially when compared to international alternatives. However, there is a significant need to steer clear of anti-avoidance provisions, which could complicate matters in the long run.
As the trend of South Africans returning gains momentum, the key to a successful transition lies in meticulous planning and understanding the regulatory intricacies. From securing non-resident status to properly structuring one’s asset portfolio, every step is important. By proactively navigating the tax and regulatory landscape, the return home can be a smooth experience. We have yet to encounter anyone who regrets their decision to return home – compliance does not have to be a concern.
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