Are you planning to invest, visit or emigrate from South Africa? We can assist you with everything from international money transfers to setting up accounts and investments.

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Banking for non-residents

We can assist you with a full range of services and facilities — from international money transfers to setting up transactional and investment accounts.

Africa
Emigration services

We facilitate support in emigration formalities as well as opening bank accounts for emigrants with no accounts in South Africa.

foreign currency
Exchange control regulations

Find out more about how foreign exchange regulations apply to you when you are in SA.

Tell me more

  • Non-resident banking in South Africa

    Did you know:
    • Non-resident means a person whose normal place of residence or domicile is outside of the CMA (Common Monetary Area).
    • The Common Monetary Area consisits of Lesotho, Namibia, South Africa and Swaziland.
    • If you have a valid work, study, retirement or spousal permit, you may qualify for a Temporary Resident Account. Visit one of our branches to apply. 

     

  • Benefits of non-resident banking

    Why open an account in SA?
    • A secure place for your money and banking that can serve your needs wherever you are in the world
    • A full range of services and facilities that you would expect from a major international bank
    • Peace of mind that your account is in a well-run, stable banking environment
    • Diversification of your banking portfolio.

  • What do you need to apply

    You will need the following:
    • A fully completed Letter of Authority in respect of Bank containing the details of your existing bankers whom we may contact to verify your identity
    • Certified copy of your passport
    • A utility bill showing your name and current residential address
    • All relevant application forms.

    Once you have filled out all the documentation and submitted it to us, we will review your application and, if successful, open your account.

  • What you need to know when in South Africa

    Tips for travelling safely in South Africa:
    • There are limits on the amount of currency you can bring into South Africa. 
    • Don’t change or withdraw large sums of money in busy public areas, including foreign exchange facilities or ATMs.
    • Be aware of ATM theft — never be distracted by a stranger asking for assistance at an ATM.
    • Don’t give personal or financial account information details to anyone.
    • Protect any documents containing details of credit cards or bank accounts.
    • Always carry your identity documentation or a copy of your passport.
    • Keep photocopies of your credit and debit cards in a safe place.
    • Avoid wearing flashy, expensive watches and jewellery and carrying large amounts of cash in public areas.
    • Always travel with a cell phone. The emergency number to call for the police is 10111.
How foreign exchange regulations will apply to you in SA
What you need to know:

As a non-resident visiting South Africa, your account will have certain restrictions. All deposits made into your account, from local sources, will only be made available once you have provided supporting documentation validating the source of funds and exchange control requirements.

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Need more help?

Let one of our consultants assist you.

Call us on:

0861 111 196

International callers:

+27 (0) 11 335 4061

Email us at:

jhbnonreshub@absa.co.za

Our foreign exchange branches