Entries by Financial Emigration

New AIT Enhancements Not to be Taken Lightly

On 24 April 2023, the new enhanced Tax Clearance Status System, was introduced, this being the Approval for International Transfer, or AIT application, as it has been coined. Without much fanfare, SARS’ immediate implementation of this new process may have come as a shock to the market, generating some uncertainty amongst financial professionals.

Policy Withdrawals – Navigating the Inconsistencies of Expat Requirements

South Africans abroad face multiple challenges when it comes to withdrawing their retirement policies in South Africa. The most recent being the South African Revenue Services (“SARS”) implementation of the 3-year lock in rule on retirement funds in March 2021. This was further exacerbated by cumbersome requirements and additional administration burden required by policy providers.

Reaffirming The Rules – SARS Disputes And The High Court

Under the original section 105 of the Tax Administration Act, 28 of 2011 (“the TAA”), taxpayers could elect to dispute a “decision” by application to the High Court for review. This was, however, amended in 2015, to make it clear that a “decision” by SARS may only be disputed per the objection and appeal procedures, […]

Need-To-Know Advice For High-Net-Worth SA Families Considering Emigrating To The US

Many high net worth (HNW) individuals and families, as well as qualified professionals, are seriously considering emigrating from South Africa to the US. Whether it is for work or to escape the country’s poor economic conditions and dwindling wealth opportunities, it’s a life-altering decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Or rushed into without the right […]

Deregistration – Is It The Answer To Breaking All Ties With SARS?

For expatriates who have decided that it is time that they break all ties with South Africa, the process of getting the South African Revenue Service (“SARS”) off your back can be a long, time-consuming affair that can result in many mistakes. With an increasing number of expatriates opting to financially emigrate, the deregistration process […]

Who Why and How – Backdating your Financial Emigration

South Africa is a tax resident system. Tax residents of South Africa are taxed on worldwide income and South African sourced income. With the full foreign income exemption being capped in March 2020, it is more important than ever for expats, with a permanent intent to reside abroad, to formally cease their residency.