The Basics to Relocation

INFORMATION FOR ASSIGNEES TO SOUTH AFRICA
Contents

• Essential Documents Required
• Getting Here and Where to Stay
• Housing
• Education
• Healthcare
• Safety and Security
• Money and Banking
• Keeping in Touch – Telecoms
• Driving and Transport

At the end of each section, we have included useful website links for your convenience and additional research.

ESSENTIAL DOCUMENTS REQUIRED

For your convenience, we have summarized the absolutely essential documentation and records you will require for the purposes of: obtaining the necessary permits to work and reside in South Africa, opening a bank account, purchasing / leasing a motor vehicle etc. The first and most critical step is obtaining a Work Permit as without a valid Work Permit you will not be able to open a bank account or clear your goods through customs. The next essential step is to open a bank account. In the meanwhile all major international credit cards are accepted for purchasing goods. However, to obtain finance to purchase a car, for example, you will need a local bank account. This is the case for many other contractual arrangements such as cell / mobile phone, internet, DSTV, security monitoring contracts etc.

• A Passport for each member of your family – valid for at least six months, preferably for the duration of your stay, and with a minimum of 4 empty pages for Work Permits and Visa endorsements
• A Work Permit or appropriate Visa endorsed to work in South Africa - please refer to IMMIGRATION SERVICES for additional documents required for Work, Temporary Residence and Study Permits.
• An International Drivers Permit – essential for leasing / purchasing and insuring a motor vehicle – a valid home country driver’s licence is no longer accepted for these transactions
• A Letter of reference from your home country bank – you will require this, together with: a valid Work Permit, signed contract of employment and proof of residence (signed lease agreement) to open a bank account. Original bank statements from your home country bank will also facilitate the opening of a bank account. Please refer to the Money and Banking Section for additional information
• In respect of school-going children: School transcripts / records from home country school
• Passport Photo’s – it is a good idea to have at least 8 yourself and 4 for each member of your family (required obtaining a Traffic Registration Number to register a motor vehicle, for Work, Residence and Study Permits etc.)
• Certified or notarized copies of passports and other essential documents, in case the originals get misplaced during your move

WEB LINKS: www.homeaffairs.gov.za

GETTING HERE AND WHERE TO STAY

Getting Here
To Johannesburg - O.R. Tambo International Airport (previously Johannesburg International) is the largest airport hub in Africa and is serviced by some 60 airlines, the largest of which (South African Airways (SAA), British Airways, Virgin Airlines, Lufthansa, United, Emirates) operate daily direct flights to and from most of the world’s major cities. O.R. Tambo International is situated 25 km east of the city centre. Internal flights also operate frequently to all South Africa’s major cities and to the capital cities in Africa.

To Cape Town – Cape Town International Airport also has direct flights from many cities, though not as many options as Johannesburg and it may therefore be more convenient to route through Johannesburg. Cape Town is a 2 hour flight from Johannesburg.

To Durban – there are currently a limited number of direct international flights to Durban however Durban’s new King Shaka International Airport now up and running well, allowing for more daily international flights.  This hub will serve both the tourist and particularly visitors from the Asia region. Durban is a 1 ½ hour flight from Johannesburg.

From the Airport

• Taxis/Cabs are readily available, but please use a recommended Taxi service (there are information desks located in the arrivals halls) and establish the fare upfront. Avoid informal ‘taxi’ touts (of which there are many) as their cars are of inferior quality.
• Shuttle bus services are available to and from the airport from larger hotels, and by reservation.
• Car hire is easily available and accessible, though it is advisable to make a prior reservation. Avis, Hertz, Imperial, Europcar and Budget all have branches nationally. Cars may be hired either on a self drive or chauffeur driven basis. You will need a credit card and valid driver’s licence. Make sure you purchase a detailed city map book, or take the optional GPS unit and know where you are going before you set off and remember to drive on the left-hand side of the road.
• Only Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo is served by a rail link to the city. It is very quick - 15 to 20 minutes and costs R100.00 (US$13.33) into the Sandton CBD/Nelson Mandela Square. If not using the Gautrain link, the airport can be a tedious hour and half or more drive in rush hour traffic. Durban's new port is also a 45 - 60 minute drive to the north of the city. Cape Town International is about 30 minutes from the city.

Where to Stay

Hotels
For short stays the hotels are, convenient, easy to find, well equipped and are, by world standards, affordable. There are many quality hotels around the country and, as is the case elsewhere in the world, hotels in South Africa are graded into categories, Ratings of between 1 and 5 stars are given to indicate the standard of accommodation and service.
Apartments
For longer stays, Hotel Apartments or fully furnished and equipped Apartments are more comfortable and cost effective.
Bed & Breakfasts
There are literally hundreds of quality B&Bs, Guest House, Boutique Hotels throughout the country – offering a more personalised experience and at prices ranging from R380 to R2 000+ per night.

For recommendations on where to stay, please do not hesitate to contact CORPORATE RELOCATIONS.

WEB LINKS
www.southernsun.co.za
www.satravelguide.com
www.travelonline.co.za
www.aatravel.co.za
www.portfoliocollection.co.za (for B&Bs)

HOUSING – CHOOSING A HOME
Where you choose to live on assignment may well be the single most important factor in determining whether your stay in South Africa is an enjoyable experience. Many considerations enter into the decision of where to live. For families with children proximity to good school/s will be paramount. For others, it may be the commute time to place of work or convenience to city amenities. For everybody, personal safety and security will be paramount.
Most expatriates relocating to South Africa choose to rent rather than purchase. Typically purchasing is not supported by most multinational employers. There is a reasonable choice of rented accommodation in all of South Africa’s major cities. Monthly rentals range widely - from R5 000 per month (unfurnished 1 bedroom apartment) to R50 000+ (for upscale 4 – 5 bedroom homes). For more information on rentals in specific areas, please contact CORPORATE RELOCATIONS for our city Rental Guidelines.
CORPORATE RELOCATIONS’ knowledgeable and experienced Consultants are an excellent home finding resource – our Consultants research and source the widest possible choice of housing options to match your needs, lifestyle requirements, budget/housing allowance; pre-select the best options and set up viewing appointments in logical viewing order. Our Consultants also provide impartial advice regarding the pros and cons of each neighbourhood (proximity to schools, place of work, safety considerations) and an overview of local rental practices and costs. Please refer to Typical Monthly Costs below for some preliminary budgeting information.
Types of Housing in South Africa
Housing types, styles and neighbourhoods vary considerably and may be very different to what you are used to at home. Detailed below is some general information on types of housing typically found in South Africa:

Free Standing Homes
Like most cities in the world, South African cities have free standing homes that vary in style size and quality. In upscale suburbs these properties typically have beautiful landscaped gardens and swimming pools. What is strikingly different about free standing homes in Johannesburg in particular are the high walls surrounding these properties, typically topped by electric fencing, with CCTV and other hi-tech security installations. In many upmarket neighbourhoods additional security is in place in the suburb itself, organised and run by the residents. These certainly enhance safety and can involve some or all of: access control via security guards/booms, street patrols, CCTV surveillance. Free standing homes offer more space and privacy, larger gardens and entertainment areas and are often closer to work/schools and city amenities. However, getting accustomed to security installations often poses some challenges and increases anxiety around safety. Our recommendation is to carefully consider security estates (below) before choosing to live in free standing homes. Alternatively, choose a suburb that has its own enhanced security in place, and be prepared to pay for this additional security. Another consideration is the cost of upkeep of large gardens and swimming pools.

Gated Communities
Gated communities are very popular with expatriates as they offer significant lifestyle advantages especially for families with children excellent perimeter security and strictly controlled access, allowing families to walk, cycle and play freely and safely within the estate. Gated communities are large developments (typically 500 – 1500 individual homes) with recreational facilities on the estate (play parks, cycling /walking trails, clubhouse, tennis and squash courts). Some are built around a golf course. Their gardens/yards and swimming pools are smaller than those of free standing homes. They are invariably located on the outer perimeters of cities and therefore, depending on location of your office, commuting time to place of work can be as much as 1 – 1½ hours. However excellent lifestyle facilities have been developed close to these communities. Many have good schools located within easy distance – for example the gated communities of Johannesburg’s northern suburbs are located close to the American International School as well as some other private schools.

Cluster Homes
Cluster homes are defined as detached 3 – 4 bedroom homes of standard architectural design within a complex/compound with perimeter walls, electric fencing and controlled access via intercom or security guards, and located in neighbourhoods throughout the country’s larger cities. The number of homes per complex varies greatly from as few as 5 or 6 to over 50, as do the size of the homes and amenities provided. The yards/gardens are typically small although many have small ‘plunge’ swimming pools. Some have communal facilities (clubhouse, pool, tennis court), but usually not on the scale of the gated communities described above.

Townhouses
These are terraced smaller homes within a secure complex. They are in some respects similar to Cluster complexes apart from their size and price. They are typically two to three bedrooms and have single garage plus a carport for the second car. Some have communal facilities similar to cluster homes.

Apartments
Apartment living has traditionally not been favoured by South Africans however in the past 10 years, particularly in Johannesburg and Cape Town, large modern upscale apartments have been developed, offering a secure alternative to townhouses, especially for singles and couples or those on short term assignments. Many of the new apartment complexes offer additional facilities such as health clubs, business centres and concierge services and some (V & A Waterfront in Cape Town and Melrose Arch in Johannesburg) also offer great lifestyle advantages with restaurants, shopping facilities and other recreational opportunities within the precinct. Apartments are typically 1 – 2 bedroom and rented fully furnished and equipped though unfurnished apartments are available for longer term lets.

General Information on South African Homes

• They are constructed from bricks and mortar – wood is very seldom used
• As Johannesburg has a 'not-too-hot-not-too-cold' climate, homes are not centrally heated or air-conditioned – electrically powered under-floor heating and individual air-conditioning units in certain rooms are common in upscale modern homes but are not considered standard. If this is an important criteria for you the installation of air-conditioning units can sometimes be negotiated into the lease, at a cost. It is important that you raise this upfront with the landlord as in some instances the construction of the home or its location in a complex precludes the installation of external air conditioning units
• Tiled floors are favoured in living rooms and bathrooms, wall-to-wall carpeting in bedrooms. Wooden floors are less common.
• Kitchens are typically fitted and modern and are always fitted with an oven and range (called a hob in South Africa). Some upscale homes have integral/fitted microwaves and refrigerators but typically these and other appliances/white goods are not included in an unfurnished lease.
• Bedrooms nearly all have built-in cupboards – a consideration when packing household goods as they seldom have space available for free standing wardrobes.
• Garbage disposal units, central vacuuming and other ‘high-tech’ installations are uncommon.
• Space heating, water heating and other installations are supplied by electricity. In some instances gas is used for cookers and fireplaces. Gas is typically bottled LPG except in some of the older suburbs in Johannesburg where piped gas is available as a utility.

General Renting Information:
Houses (including homes in gated communities and cluster homes)

• As opposed to apartments houses are typically rented unfurnished in South Africa. It is sometimes possible to negotiate the inclusion of curtains/blinds and appliances into the monthly rental, and in some cases furniture. However you can expect to pay additional rental for this. Rental furniture is also available in Johannesburg though expensive. Good quality furniture is readily available to purchase at reasonable prices as an alternative to shipping household goods.
• Leases are usually for a minimum of 1 year but typically landlords prefer a 2 year lease.
• Early Termination/Diplomatic Clauses are accepted for corporate leases.
• Utility costs, security monitoring and any Home Owner’s Association levies (applicable for Gated Communities and Cluster Homes) are typically excluded from the monthly rental.
• Telephone / internet usage is always excluded from the monthly rental.
• For obvious reasons South African landlords prefer a company signed leases over leases entered into in the personal capacity of an expatriate employee
• The landlord is responsible for the maintenance of the exterior of the premises and the structure – roof, walls, electrical and plumbing installations, motors and machinery such as pool filtration systems, under floor heating systems, automatic garage doors or gates.
• The tenant is typically responsible for the maintenance of the interior of the premises – interior walls, carpets and floors, electrical fittings (and replacing light bulbs), the appliances, toilets and taps. As regards the exterior the tenant must maintain the yard and keep the swimming pool clean and the filtration machinery in good working order.
• A good lease agreement will record that the entire premises must be handed over professionally cleaned, free of damp, pests, and with all the installations in good working order. It will provide the tenant with recourse in the event of the landlord not complying with his / her obligations in terms of the lease. You will in all likelihood have occasion to ensure that the landlord complies with the terms of the lease at some stage during your stay, and a lease agreement that clearly defines the landlord’s obligations will go a long way to making your tenancy enjoyable.
• It is critically important that a detailed Check-in Inspection is conducted to record the condition of the leased premises on commencement of lease and to record any and all landlord transgression in writing to ensure that your security deposit is refunded on lease termination. South African landlord’s are not on the whole delinquent but many can be reluctant to refund the security deposit.
  Apartments
• Leases for furnished apartments are shorter and more flexible, but usually a minimum of 3 months. There is a reasonable supply of fully furnished and equipped apartments available for short term lets for temporary accommodation, although you can expect to pay a premium
• Water, parking and levies are always included in the monthly rental
• Electricity, satellite/cable television and internet are billed separately, but can sometimes be negotiated into an inclusive rental.
• Telephone charges are never included in the monthly rental.

We highly recommended that either CORPORATE RELOCATIONS or your Company review your lease contract prior to signature rather than use a standard real estate agent’s contract, as they typically have little protection for the tenant.

Rent, Additional & Incidental Costs

• Rent is usually paid monthly in advance, and is due on the first day of each month.
• Typically a deposit of one month’s rental is required on unfurnished properties, and two month’s rental on furnished properties.
• Rentals escalate annually – currently between 8% and 10%. It is sometimes possible to negotiate the escalation rate down but rarely below 7% or linked to CPI (the Consume Price Index) as South African landlords are wary of our historically volatile interest and inflation rate.
• A monthly Home Owners Association Levy is payable by the tenant / lessee for homes in gated communities and cluster home developments. This levy can sometimes be negotiated into the monthly rental at the equivalent cost
• A monthly Security Monitoring Fee is payable for homes with burglar alarms linked to private security firms. This applies particularly to free-standing homes,.
• Utilities (water, electricity, gas, refuse) are payable by the tenant in addition to the monthly rental. In apartments some or all may be included in the rental.
• Telephone line rental & call costs are never included in the rental, and are always payable by the tenant.
• Commission on any lease agreement is paid by the landlord to the real estate agent, NOT by the tenant

Typical Home Related Monthly Costs (Payable by Tenant, over and above rental) – April 09

Explanatory notes to above:

• Electricity and water charges are estimates only – consumption is billed by local authorities based on meter readings and per unit. Allow for higher charges for electricity in winter (for heating).
• Deposits are required by local authorities for hook-up of electricity and water. The deposit amount is based on prior consumption at the premises and ranges from R500 – R2 000, which is a once off payment and offset against outstanding amounts due on termination of services.
• Alternatively the accounts can remain in the landlord’s name (often preferred by landlords) and the landlord invoices the tenant monthly in arrears.

Temporary housing & rental furniture

• The lease commencement date on your new home may not coincide with your arrival in South Africa or with the arrival of your household goods (typically take 6 – 8 weeks door to door). It may therefore be necessary to arrange temporary housing.
  There are a number of options that are more comfortable and economical than long hotel stays.
• Apartment Hotels (self catering). Average rentals per month range from R18 000 – R35 000.
• Fully Furnished and equipped apartments. There is a reasonable supply of good quality 1 and 2 bed furnished apartments available on a short lease (minimum 1 month). Typically the apartments are owned by private landlords and a deposit (2 months rental) and lease is usually required. Average monthly rentals range between R15 000 – R30 000.
• B & B’s and Boutique Hotels – plentiful and of high quality. Prices range from R450 (modest) to R1200+(suites) per night.
• Rental Furniture – if your permanent accommodation is available on your arrival rental furniture offers the convenience of immediate occupation, and eases settling in. The cost of renting furniture is based on the size of home, quantity and quality of goods (typically between R6 000 to R15 000 per month). Currently only available in Johannesburg.
• For the period running up to and over the FIFA World Cup to be held in South Africa during June & July 2010 availability of furnished accommodation is poor and rentals being asked are very high. It is expected that things will return to normal immediately thereafter.

Buying a Home in South Africa

• South Africa places few restrictions on the purchase of property by non-residents. The South African Reserve Bank does however place some restrictions on the amount a non-permanent resident may borrow to finance investments in South Africa, property included. Property acquisition and sale costs are however comparatively high and the South African Rand is notoriously volatile against other major currencies. There is also no tax relief on mortgage repayments. All these considerations make buying a home while on a short-term international assignment a risky option.
  However if are planning to be in South Africa on a long term assignment, or would like to consider purchasing a holiday home in one of the country’s beach or bush resorts, please do not hesitate to contact Rod Pringle (rod@corprelo.co.za) for advice, tax implications, acquisition and sale costs.

WEB LINKS
www.iol.co.za
www.saproperty.co.za
www.g.co.za

EDUCATION
General Schooling Considerations
Most expatriate children attend either local private schools or international schools. The former may offer the advantages of socialising with children from South Africa and a richer appreciation of a different culture. Most often, however the key consideration is the effect a year or more in a foreign education system may have on the child’s readmission into school back home, or qualifying for university / college entrance. Depending on the age of the child an international school may be the safer choice.
Important Note: Please bring copies of your children’s school transcripts / academic records with you. A non-refundable registration fee is typically required and most insist on an assessment of the pupil prior to confirming admission.

International Schooling Options
Johannesburg and Cape Town both have a number of international schooling options (American, British, German, French) and comprehensive information and contact details will be provided in our city specific Guide to Living in South Africa.
South African Education System

Private Schools
If not attending an international school children of expatriates typically attend local private schools or occasionally, good state schools.
It has become somewhat difficult to gain entry to private schools, particularly in the lower grades. We therefore recommend that parents visit schools of choice, complete the necessary admission forms and if necessary get a place on the waiting list. Families may not gain admission to the first school of choice but, as the standard is high in the majority of Johannesburg’s private schools, they typically find a school that well suits their child’s requirements.

• Typically schools hours are from 7.45am – 2.30pm and rather longer for older students.
• Most private schools are modelled on the British system of education and have a challenging curriculum. Students are placed in appropriate grades based on age and assessment.
• The entry age to formal primary schooling is six years old for entry to Grade 1. Many of the private schools offer Grade 0 and Grade 00 classes (for four & five year olds- equivalent to kindergarten).
• There is more discipline than US parents and students in particular may be accustomed to.
• The South African academic year runs from January to December. Private Schools run on a three term school year and State Schools on a four term calendar. All have a long six week summer break in December and January (in the South African summer). International schools may follow their own  calendars (The American International has its long vacation in July & August).
• The duration of primary and secondary education is 12 years, and students must pass the Senior Certificate or “Matric” exam at the end of the 12th year to successfully complete their secondary education and qualify for university. Some private schools offer British ‘A’ level courses in the thirteenth year for entry into overseas colleges and universities.
• Many private schools are boys or girls only but the majority of state schools are mixed / co-educational.
• Most schools require the wearing of school uniforms.
• A few schools offer limited bus services. In some cases parents share car-pooling responsibilities for transportation. Children generally do not use public transport to get to and from school.

Pre-Schools, Kindergarten, Nursery Schools
There are many options for pre-school education of children under the age of 6 and it is typical for children to attend pre-school for at least two years prior to starting their formal education:

• Kindergarten classes at the international schools – admission from 4 years old.
• Grade 00 (for 4 year olds) and Grade 0 (for 5 year olds) at most private schools.
• Several Montessori schools around Johannesburg.
• Government registered pre-schools which provide structured learning.
• Neighbourhood kindergarten or pre-schools, both structured and informal.
  

Schooling Options for Children with Special Needs
Due to a lack of financial resources, schooling for children with special needs for those who require specialist remedial support, is not of the standard in the US or Europe. The best option for children with special needs is, if possible, for them to attend mainstream schools with extra remedial tuition and support as required.
For children who have learning disabilities that cannot be accommodated in main-stream schools, Corporate Relocations can provide an educational consultancy programme to research the best options, per the child’s individual requirements.

WEB LINKS:
www.aisj-jhb.com (American International School/Johannesburg)
www.dsj.co.za (German International School/Johannesburg)
www.lyceefrancias.com (French International School/Johannesburg)
www.saschools.co.za
www.isasa.org
www.studysa.co.za
www.nurseryschools.co.za

HEALTHCARE
What if I get sick in South Africa?

The possibility of becoming ill and requiring medical attention is one of the most common concerns in preparing for a move abroad. The quality of private health care in South Africa is probably comparable to that in your home country so there is no need for undue anxiety.

• Private medical facilities in major South African cities are the best on the continent.
• Equipment is up-to-date and medical supplies and drugs are readily available. Hospitals are public or private, but the standard of private health care is much higher than that in state hospitals.
• There are maternity clinics, trauma centres, excellent laboratories and other specialised services and specialists of every medical discipline.
• It is essential that you have health care insurance that will provide coverage in South Africa, as private medical care is relatively expensive and you will be required to make payment up-front if not properly covered by a local medical insurer.
• Should a medical emergency arise, you will not be left on your own. Your employer or CORPORATE RELOCATIONS will provide you with pro-active assistance and support.

Once you move to South Africa we recommend that you register with a General Practitioner (GP), and identify closest Emergency Medical Facility.
CORPORATE RELOCATIONS will provide you with a list of hospitals, clinics, pharmacies and recommended physicians. Expatriates who have already settled can also help, easing concerns about the quality of health care you can expect to receive.

Healthcare Insurance
The majority of multinational corporations are contracted to global healthcare insurance service provides (CIGNA, BUPA and the like). Your employer should provide you with information on your medical cover and claims process.
Be prepared to pay for services yourself as generally you will be required to pay up-front at hospitals and for doctors consultations (they will accept credit card payments) and then claim reimbursement from your service provider. Some provide 24 hour Help-Line assistance and pre-authorisation for treatment and hospitalisation.
Important Note: Please carry your Medical Insurance Identity Card with you at all times.

Special Medical Needs
If any family member has a chronic or special health condition, before you leave your home country, we recommend that you obtain and bring medical records from your physician with you. If possible obtain the generic names of any required prescription drugs from your pharmacist so that local pharmacies will be able to match them with local equivalents as brand names may be different.

Healthcare Tips
It is a good idea to check out local emergency facilities and their location before any need arises.

• Even if you are in perfect health, before leaving home, we recommend that every member of your family have a thorough check-up to identify any potential health issues, advise on vaccinations and inoculations and obtain copies of medical records for use by your future medical practitioner.
• Similarly we recommend you have a dental check-up and obtain copies of your dental records. South African dentists and orthodontists are generally excellent.
• As above it is a good idea to have a check-up with your optician and bring a copy of your most recent prescription. If you wear contact lenses bring an extra supply and /or an extra pair of spectacles to tide you over until you get settled.
• Stock up on any essential prescription medication – these should be kept in their original containers, preferably with a copy of the doctor’s prescription – loose or inadequately labelled drugs may invite unwelcome attention from customs officials!

Immunizations
There are no compulsory vaccinations required to enter South Africa, unless you are travelling from or routing through a Yellow Fever area, in which case you will require a Yellow Fever Certificate. Your child will require the usual infant immunisations prior to school admission. If you have any health concerns, we suggest you discuss these with your family doctor and the following recommended immunizations prior to your departure:

• Polio*
• Hepatitis A & B
• Tetanus
• MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella) *
• Tuberculosis*
• Yellow Fever (if you will be travelling north into other countries in Africa)

* Typically required by schools prior to admission

Common Health Risks in South Africa

• The Elements – Water, Sun and Storms – although not commonly regarded as a health risk, these account for far more injuries than diseases commonly found in South Africa:
  - Water/Swimming – due to its wonderful climate, swimming both off the country’s beaches and in private swimming pools is a popular pastime, especially for the young. However drowning accounts for an alarming number of injuries or fatalities. The South African coastline is beautiful but its seas are not calm millponds and rip tides and large breakers are common. Children should always be supervised and only swim on life guard protected beaches. Home swimming pools are common and if you have young children it is essential to have a safety net and surface alarm fitted
  - Lightning – particularly in Johannesburg – is dangerous if outdoors. Golf Courses have early detection sirens and it is important to heed these and to get indoors or into your car during heavy thunder/lightning storms. They are spectacular to watch, in the safety of your home!
  - Sun Burn – both at the coast and on the highveld (1500 – 2000 metre high plateau covering much of the northern provinces), the African sun is strong and can be dangerous especially to fair skins. Wear hats and use an effective sun block whenever outdoors. Take special care of young children not used to the African sun.
• Malaria is a common disease throughout Africa and although the Cape and highveld provinces do not fall in the malaria belt. In the Kruger National Park and certain other areas to the north and east of the country malaria occurs at certain times of the year. Malaria is preventable and curable. If appropriate interventions are taken the risk of contracting malaria is minimal. It is caused by a parasite that is transmitted to humans only by the bite of an infected Anopheles mosquito. The mosquitoes feed from dusk to dawn – so that’s the time you need to be most cautious by protecting yourself from mosquito bites by using a good repellent and covering up. Before you travel into a malaria area we recommend that you contact a Netcare Travel Clinic or visit their website for the most up to date information and most appropriate anti-malaria prophylactics and preventative measures.
• Tick bite fever is not life threatening but has some unpleasant side effects (headaches and fever) and can be avoided. It is typically contracted when hiking or walking through long grass. Tiny ticks transmit the disease from animals to humans. Wear protective clothing (long trousers and socks) and search and remove ticks from the body after hiking through long grass outside of urban areas; apply DEET-containing repellents, and avoid walking barefoot in these areas. This does not apply to suburban gardens and parks!
• HIV/AIDS is pandemic in the whole of Africa and South Africa is no exception. The risk to expatriate families is very, very low, as it is extremely difficult to transmit the disease except through deliberate unsafe actions. The infection rate, particularly in the young (16 – 25) heterosexual black community is high and compounded by poverty poor diet and living conditions in the poor communities. As a result of a weakened immune system many HIV/Aids sufferers frequently succumb to opportunistic diseases such as pneumonia or TB.

Not Common to South Africa

• Yellow Fever and other nasty tropical fevers do not occur in South Africa
• Cholera, a usually non-fatal water-borne bacteriological disease, is not common – although there have been outbreaks on our border with Zimbabwe in 2008/2009 as a consequence of Zimbabwe’s healthcare and public water infrastructure collapsing. There are also occasional outbreaks in very poor rural communities with inadequate water and sanitation services, but these are typically quickly contained. There is very little risk of your contracting Cholera during your stay in South Africa.

WEB LINKS
www.netcare.co.za

SAFETY AND SECURITY

Without question, the single biggest concern expatriates have when considering relocating to South Africa, is safety and security.
This is understandable as the overseas press and many exiled South Africans paint a grim picture particularly of the country’s largest city, Johannesburg.
In gathering information prior to making a decision with regards to an assignment to South Africa we urge you to:

• Consult your company’s local in-house Security Officer (if they have one) – they are very well informed, typically pragmatic rather than alarmist but always with the safety of the company’s employee/family as their priority
• Avoid giving too much credence to privately hired security firms/body guards – they obviously rely on selling their services and some, though not all, are prone to exaggerate risks
• Try to avoid dinner table talk, at least initially – South African’s are a resilient bunch and often take some pride in their ‘survival stories’ without taking cognisance of the impact these have on new-comers to the country
• If possible, attempt to put press reports in perspective – bad news sells and South Africa’s press is no different
• Consider that the country has a stable and vibrant democracy, press freedom is well entrenched (and vocally exercised) and political violence, civil unrest and terrorist threats are minimal. The IPL (Indian Professional League) cricket tournament has this year been moved from the Indian sub-continent to South Africa (April/May 2009) for fear of terrorist attacks in that part of the world

An overview of Crime in South Africa (a pragmatic perspective)

• Yes, there is crime in South Africa and particularly in its urban areas and it is unacceptably high by first world standards and sometimes accompanied by gratuitous violence
• Although no excuse for crime, like many countries in transition, there is a large disparity between the rich and the poor and in particular the hardship and violence of the previous apartheid regime still impacts on criminal behaviour. Other factors are the large numbers of other Africans (from north of our borders) that have flooded into the country in search of work/wealth, the civil wars and social unrest in their own countries. Events north of our borders have caused increasing numbers of refugees and migrants, all of which place an increasing burden on limited resources
• There are other factors for expatriate families to take into consideration in the ‘overall’ South Africa security situation:
  - Expatriates are NOT a target, unlike many countries in, for example, South America
  - Expatriates and millions of South Africans live positively, without fear and in safety – but common precautions are important, particularly at home and when driving. Be prepared to pay (as multinational employers typically understand) the extra for you and your family’s well being to minimize the possibilities of ever becoming a victim of crime
  - The overall crime statistics for violent crimes such as murder and rape are misleading as the majority of these are domestic crimes and typically occur in the very poor socio-economic communities and are often alcohol, drug or gang related. This is not to say they are in any way acceptable, just that these crimes seldom touch the lives of expatriates or more affluent/safer neighbourhoods
  - Most crimes occur when one’s guard is down – with vigilance and common sense precautions the risk is minimised
  - There are very real signs of improvement in the increased vigilance of the South African Police Services (SAPS) and the government’s commitment to increased resources, training and its priority to bring down levels of all crime. Communities have also become far more involved – from neighbourhood watches to more formal Community Policing Forums and initiatives such as Business Against Crime (largely responsible for CCTV surveillance of Johannesburg’s CBD) and Primedia’s Crime Stop. There are positive signs and in particular, a decrease in car hi-jacking and house-breaking (especially in areas where communities have actively become involved)

Security Considerations and Safety Tips when Choosing a Home
It is critically important for every family not only to be safe but to feel safe, particularly in one’s home, and this starts with selecting a home in a safe neighbourhood and ensuring that the home itself has deterrents to opportunistic entry.

• Choose a safe suburb as far as possible from quick motorway access (which offer criminals an easy get away)
• As detailed in the Housing section – gated communities and secure complexes/apartments provide an additional deterrent to criminals. Not only does the criminal have to gain access to the complex but he would also need to gain access to the house itself and, more importantly get out of both undetected – and with whatever he intends to steal
• Most house break-in attempts happen at night, therefore it is important that you have a sophisticated anti-intruder alarm system at your home and use it. In many instances where house break-ins occur families have dropped their guard and not activated or linked their alarm system to a security monitoring service
• For families who prefer to live in free standing homes it is even more important to pay particular attention to security features/deterrents. Most multinational employers have in-house Security experts, or contract specialists to conduct a security audit of the home prior to entering into a lease agreement on a selected property. Please do not hesitate to contact CORPORATE RELOCATIONS for recommendations and advice.
• Free standing homes, typically, as a minimum should:
  - Have a sophisticated anti-intruder alarm system installed (with contacts on all opening doors and windows), exterior beams, solid perimeter walls (ideally topped with electric fencing but beams are an effective alternative),
  - an automatic gate with a battery back-up, automatic garage doors, CCTV camera/s linked to internal monitors and intercom system, good quality locks.
  - alarm, beams and electric fence must be linked via radio control to a good security monitoring service.
  - Be in a good neighbourhood – avoid streets with high pedestrian or vehicle traffic, or close to taxi ranks or bus stops
  - Not have large trees and shrubbery on the sidewalk to provide cover for any potential intruder
  - Good lighting – on the street and around the exterior of the home

Safety Do’s and Don’ts
When Driving

• Choose a car with central locking and air-conditioning – SUV’s; 4 x 4’s are preferred by most expats. Soft tops are not recommended
• Drive with windows closed and do not leave valuables (laptops, cell phones, purses, cameras) on the seat/visible. Lock them in the trunk or boot
• Keep to well lit streets and know your route in advance of driving, until you know the city well and which areas to avoid. If you get lost, DO NOT stop on a highway, highway off-ramp or dark street to consult your map or call a friend – drive to a well lit Service Station or Police Station before doing so (an preferably purchase a Garmin or other navigation system if your vehicle is not fitted with one already and enter your destination before you leave)
• Always ensure that you have at least a quarter of a tank of fuel
• Join the Automobile Association and call them for roadside assistance, even if only to change a flat tyre, and even then if possible get to a well lit safe area before you stop
• Code immediate family, AA and other emergency numbers into your cell phone for easy access

When Out and About

• Be alert and exercise a conscious awareness of your environment, prudence and common sense
• Do not walk around the streets at night
• Do not carry large sums of cash – only sufficient for your immediate needs. Use credit cards whenever possible
• Avoid ostentatious displays of jewellery, cameras and other valuables and carry your handbag firmly under your arm
• Avoid public transport – it is not for the uninitiated. If you do not yet have a car, use a recommended taxi/cab service (Safe Cabs; Corporate Cabs), or ask the concierge at your hotel to call you a decent metered cab
• Like all large cities in the world, there are areas that it is advisable to avoid and we therefore recommend that you do not venture into Central Johannesburg or the townships, especially after dark, without a guide
• Should a thief confront you, especially if he/she has a weapon, do not resist
• Keep your passport and personal identification in a safe place and carry certified copies
• Only use ATM’s (Automatic Teller Machines) in safe, well lit areas such as shopping malls

MONEY AND BANKING
Currency
The currency in South Africa is the Rand (ZAR) and notes come in R10; R20; R50; R100 and R200 denominations and are easy to distinguish by their different size, colour and animal graphics. Coins come in denominations of 5c; 10c; 20c; 50c; R1; R2 and R5.

Cash and Credit Cards
All major credit cards are accepted in South Africa and are the preferred means of payment to hotels, restaurants and stores. Credit cards can be used to draw cash from ATMs but please be cautious about withdrawing large amounts of cash as these withdrawals attract high bank charges and it is not advisable to carry more than a minimal amount of cash on you (R500 – R1 000) for incidental purposes. Most SA Banks set a R1 000 daily limit for cash withdrawals for your protection and this limit can be raised with your banker, on request.

Tipping

• Restaurants and bars – 10 – 15% is customary. The gratuity is typically not included in the bill
• Taxis/Cabs – expect a 10% tip
• Hotel Porters – R5 per bag
• Petrol Pump Attendants – R4 – R5 is the norm, dependent on service (i.e. in addition to filling the tank, cleaning the windscreen, checking tyre pressures and water)
• Security Guards at Shopping Centres. If there is a charge for parking, no tip is expected. However in free car parks the informal car guards expect a tip of between R2 – R5
• Hairdressers, Beauty Therapists – it is not customary to tip professionals, however assistants who for example wash your hair are very grateful for a R10 – R20 tip

Foreign Exchange

• There is no restriction on the amount of foreign exchange that may be brought into South Africa. However, should you wish to bring R50 000-00 or more into the country the SA Reserve Bank requires you to complete and sign a ‘Form E’ (provided by your bank) for the transaction indicating the source of the funds.
• There are no restrictions on the amount of money that foreign nationals may remit when leaving the country, provided these funds were either legally earned (and taxes paid thereon), or on funds remitted into South Africa. Please note that it is advisable to keep a personal record of all monies imported (copies of Form E) earned to expedite this process. Bank accounts (other than non-resident accounts) must be closed at the end of your work contract.

Banking

• South Africa has a highly sophisticated banking sector
• Bank charges are high by US and European standards
• Internet banking facilities are sophisticated and easy to set up and use
• All banks have 24-hour cash dispensing ATM’s (Automatic Teller Machines) located outside their branches and in shopping malls. Please be aware that there are charges for withdrawals and these are higher if not using your bank’s ATM
• Normal banking opening hours are between 09h00 and 15h30, Mondays to Fridays and 08h30 to 11h00 on Saturdays
• Other than the few private banks (see below), personalised service is disappointing and typically delivered via the dreaded call centres.

Types of Accounts
There are many and confusing options (check, savings, prestige accounts etc.) available. As above, bank charges in South Africa are not inconsiderable and it is well worthwhile researching options in some detail to ascertain which type of account (and charges) will best suit your requirements. There is generally little difference with regards to bank charges between one bank and another.
Current or Cheque Accounts offer the following banking facilities: cheque book; cash card; credit card/s; garage/petrol cards (for debiting gas/petrol charges to your account, since petrol stations do not accept standard credit or debit cards).
The four largest retail banks in South Africa are: Standard Bank, ABSA (Barclays), First National Bank (FNB) and Nedbank. In addition to the above retail banks there are a number of private banks (such as Investec, Rand Merchant Bank and Standard Private Bank) which offer better levels or personal service to high net-worth customers. The private banks do not usually provide customers with cheque book facilities. However as internet banking is very sophisticated the use of cheques has become largely redundant.
Standard Bank, FNB and Investec have mobile Consultants who will come to you to set up banking facilities to avoid you having to go to the Enquiries Desk at a branch and having to deal with a banking clerk who is not familiar with setting up bank accounts for foreign nationals.
Please do not hesitate to contact CORPORATE RELOCATIONS to set up appointments on your behalf or to provide you with contact details of responsive personal banking consultants.

Opening a Bank Account – Required Documents

• Your Passport , with valid Work Permit endorsement
• Proof of employment and income – a letter from your employer; your contract of employment or a payslip
• Proof of residence – a signed copy of your lease will usually suffice
• Letter of reference from your home country bank – not absolutely necessary but will facilitate opening bank account by establishing you as a client of good standing

Your bank account can be opened immediately, however it will take a minimum of 4 days for cheque book and cards to be issued.
South African banks will typically not open separate accounts for a spouse/partner who has no income in South Africa. This is a source of great irritation to many partners used to operating their own checking accounts. The best option is to open one bank account with joint signing powers for your spouse/partner (which allows him/her to make the same transactions as the principle account holder) and apply for additional credit cards. The private bankers are somewhat more flexible and do open linked accounts in the partner/spouse’s own name.

WEB LINKS
www.standardbank.co.za
www.fnb.co.za
www.investec.co.za
www.randmerchantbank.co.za
www.absa.co.za
www.nedcor.co.za

KEEPING IN TOUCH – TELECOMS
South Africa has well developed, reliable telecoms network and infrastructure, although relatively expensive. High speed internet bandwidth is currently not as good as that in the first world. With the recent entrance of competitors to the previously state owned Telkom, services and prices are rapidly becoming more competitive and the variety of telecoms service offerings are changing by the month.
CORPORATE RELOCATIONS’ Practical Guide to Living in South Africa will provide you with a great deal of additional information on various options and how to get connected. The information below is simply a brief overview intended to provide you with preliminary information and websites if you would like to research options in more details.
For calls and internet services

• Telkom - SA’s only fixed landline service is still probably the most reliable and effective service for calls and internet, though its service, especially for initially getting connected, is tiresome to say the least
• Neotel – new entrant to SA market, providing voice, data and internet services via fibre optic cables and wireless, are an economical option provided they have coverage in your area. Neotel have somewhat onerous credit requirements for expatriates and for that reason we do not recommend them unreservedly
• iBurst – wireless internet service provider, also coverage dependent. iBurst offers a responsive, flexible service that can be installed within 48 hours on confirmation of signal. iBurst have recently launched their iPhone voice service – again check coverage before committing.
• Cell/Mobile services - for day-to-day living and working having a mobile / cell phone is a must, and all South Africa’s major networks also offer competitive internet services via 3G/HSPD Cards. There are a number of service providers and a variety of contracts and prepaid options, as well as a high standard of service, though reception can be patchy in some places. Overseas calls are however, expensive and special arrangements need to be made for international roaming, which is only available on contract.

- As an expatriate getting a contract set up with a South African service provider is however not a simple thing. They all have a somewhat onerous credit verification process for foreign nationals especially. Before they will approve a contract, you will have to provide: your original passport with valid Work Permit endorsement, Proof of residence, Proof of income and often 3 months bank statements.
- Be wary of their contracts – if you select a contract that provides a free handset or free 3G Card, you will typically be locked for a 24 month period, and there are heavy penalties for early cancellation – please refer to Important Note below.
- Pre-paid service options are easy to purchase and set up – at any of the cell phone provider outlets which are located in shopping malls, international airports

The largest service cell providers in South Africa are: Vodacom; MTN; Cell C.

Important Note:
Carefully review any contract before signing. Telkom, Neotel and iBurst as well as the Cellular Service Providers all offer “free” modems and/or cell phones and 3G Cards. However, there is nothing free about these offerings as they require you to sign 24 month contracts and there are heavy penalties for early cancelation. Unless you are sure you will be in the country for a minimum of 24 months we recommend that you DO NOT enter into a long term contract and elect to purchase the modem; cell phone and or modem outright, even when taking a contract service.

Technical and Contract Information
South Africa, like Europe, uses the GSM international cellular system therefore compatible cell phones can be used in South Africa. Calls made to a foreign based cell phone can be costly though as they are routed through your home country service provider. Cell phones that are not compatible with the GSM system cannot be used.
If you are coming to South Africa on a look-see visit before moving it may be wise to check if you mobile phone works here first. Renting a mobile phone during your stay or purchasing a local starter pack and airtime from one of the above service providers may be the best option as it will be more cost effective than international roaming.

WEB LINKS
www.telkom.co.za
www.neotel.co.za
www.iburst.co.za
www.vodacom.co.za
www.mtn.co.za
www.cellc.co.za

DRIVING AND TRANSPORT
Driving in SA and particularly in Johannesburg can be challenging, as drivers are not as disciplined or courteous as their counterparts in Europe or the US. With the fast growth of Johannesburg and its surrounding areas the city’s roads have become increasingly congested over the past 5 years particularly from North to South, and it is not unusual to have to spend up to an hour in traffic to get to work. South Africa’s other major cities are less congested but infrastructure has also not managed to keep up with the increasing number of cars on their roads.

Most expatriates in South Africa do not hire drivers but, if you are anxious about driving in Johannesburg, it may be a good idea to have a few local driving lessons before venturing out onto the road.

There are various requirements as a visitor or new resident that should be taken into account, before driving in South Africa:

• All drivers must comply with the minimum age requirement of 18 years
• As a visitor you can drive as long as your foreign licence remains valid, and covers the category of vehicle you are driving, and your licence is in English, has an integral photograph and signature (See below- Drivers Licences)
• Vehicles drive on the left-hand side of the road
• Speed limits on national highways are between 100-120km (75mph)
• The Speed limit in built up areas is 60km (35 mph) unless stated otherwise
• There are heavy fines for speeding and although there is not currently a demerit system in place it is in the process
• It is compulsory for the driver and front seat passengers to wear seatbelts
• It is illegal to talk on your mobile/cell phone (unless it's hands free)
• There are heavy drink-drive penalties and possible arrest

Petrol/Gas Stations

• Most petrol stations situated on main/country roads are open 24 hours,
• Unleaded petrol and diesel are always available
• No credit cards are accepted for petrol purchase – it must be paid in cash or with a special bank issued petrol/garage card
• South African filling stations are not of the self-service type. Pump attendants will be happy to fill your car and check oil/water/air and clean the windscreen. They rely for a large part of their income on small tips (R4.00 - R5.00 is usual) for performing these services and are generally friendly and reliable.

Drivers Licences

• Foreign nationals do not require nor can they obtain a South African Drivers licence unless they become Permanent Residents of South Africa. It is not advisable to convert your home country licence to a South African Drivers licence – it is a lengthy and bureaucratic process and you will be required to relinquish your home country licence.
• Foreign Nationals are permitted to drive on a foreign Drivers licence (credit card format) as long as it is valid, is in English (if not it must be accompanied by a certified translation), has an integral photo and bears the signature of the driver.
• Important: International Drivers Permit (IDP) - to obtain finance and insurance cover, you will require an International Driver’s Permit, validating your home country license. IDPs can only be obtained in the country that issued the original Drivers licence therefore must be obtained prior to departure for South Africa. IDPs are issued for a period of one year and with few exceptions must be renewed in their country of issue.
• Legal age of obtaining a drivers license in South Africa is 18 and Learners licence (written test) at 17. A Learner Driver must be accompanied by a qualified driver at all times. A practical test conducted by a traffic officer is required for a driver’s licence and lessons prior to this are advisable
• Make sure your home driver’s licence does not expire while you are in SA, or you may have to take the test again upon repatriation

Car Purchasing & Leasing
Expatriates intending to remain in South Africa for any length of time will need at least one car. Couples will find that both partners need a car since public transport is currently not reliable or recommended and taxis are expensive. There is a wide choice of both locally manufactured and imported cars for sale in South Africa, both new and second hand, although they are somewhat expensive, especially compared with USA.

Cars can be purchased outright or financed and there are a number of leasing options available.

• New car prices range from R100 000 for entry level smaller cars to upwards of R750 000 for luxury sedans and SUVs
• Conditioning. It is also advisable to have an alarm and tracking system fitted. Both of which are usually required by insurance companies on all vehicles other than low cost models

Please do not hesitate to contact CORPORATE RELOCATIONS for additional information.

WEB LINKS
www.aasa.co.za