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.
National Treasury Withdraws Controversial Proposal to Remove Tax Exemption on Foreign Pensions, Opts for Broader Consultation
The National Treasury has for now abandoned its highly contested proposal to remove the tax exemption for foreign pensions applied to South African tax residents. This follows a robust public participation process where several role players warned of the unintended consequences of scrapping the tax exemption by 1 March 2026.