We solve complex tax challenges for South African expats, remote workers and global earners. Our team applies the right Double Taxation Agreement (DTA), clarifies your tax residency and delivers compliant, legally sound outcomes. We ensure your income is protected and you stay fully compliant wherever you live.
A Double Taxation Agreement (DTA) helps South African expats avoid being taxed twice on the same income. It defines which country has taxing rights and includes residency rules to determine where you are legally obligated to pay taxes. DTAs apply when both countries could claim tax on your income, for example, if you are earning abroad while still considered a South African tax resident.
If you’re a South African earning foreign income, whether you’re abroad temporarily or have emigrated, a DTA may apply to your situation. You should consider DTA relief if you are a South African tax resident earning income from another country, if you live and work abroad but haven’t formally ceased tax residency in South Africa, or if you receive both local and foreign sourced income.
DTA relief may also apply if your tax obligations are unclear or appear to conflict across jurisdictions.
Many South Africans abroad unknowingly remain liable for tax on their foreign income. Applying DTA relief correctly can protect you from being taxed twice, but only if your tax status and income sources are clearly defined.
Important Tax Directive Updates from SARS will impact expats’ withdrawal of retirement interests
On 8 April 2025, the South African Revenue Service (SARS) announced a set of updates on tax directive system changes which will impact South Africans who have already left the country or are in the process of cutting tax ties. This will come into full force on 11 April 2025.