Although I’ve done it, I don’t consider myself the most “qualified” person to hand out tips on living abroad. Why? Because I pretty much winged it.
And you know what? It worked.
Moving to a new country isn’t easy—but it’s also not impossible. It’s really just a matter of managing a lot of moving parts all at once while trying not to lose your mind in the process. If you’re thinking about how to move abroad, especially starting expat life in South Africa, here’s a very real (and slightly chaotic) glimpse into how I made it happen.
Moving to South Africa: How I Did It (Mostly by Googling Everything)
I didn’t have some airtight plan with spreadsheets and backup strategies. I had a gut feeling, an internet connection, and a stubborn belief that I could make it work.
Shipping your stuff: If you’re moving abroad with furniture or keepsakes (like I did), you’ll want to book a shipping container. They’re priced by size, so the more you bring, the higher the cost. I downsized but still shipped family heirlooms and artwork. International moving companies handled everything from packing to customs clearance, and thankfully, everything arrived in one piece.
Bringing pets: Moving to a new country with pets? I did it with two dogs. Pet relocation services handle vaccines, paperwork, and travel crates. It’s expensive, but worth every cent to see them step onto South African soil safe and sound.
The visa process: If you’re figuring out how to become an expat, this is the trickiest part. South Africa offers several visa types—spousal, business, retirement, and study visas. The country doesn’t yet offer a Digital Nomad Visa, but many expats still work remotely here. I spent countless hours on the Department of Home Affairs website before realizing that consulting an immigration expert is the best investment you can make.
And then? You book your flight, take a deep breath, and step into expat life.
Living Abroad: Adjusting to a New Country
Once I arrived, the real challenge of living abroad began: building a life from scratch in a place where nothing felt familiar.
Driving: Learning to drive on the left side of the road while sitting on the right side of the car was like solving a puzzle in motion. But within a week, I felt like a local navigating Cape Town’s highways.
Life admin: Moving abroad means starting fresh with everything—WiFi, doctors, hairstylists, gyms. I researched relentlessly and joined Facebook groups like “Expats in Cape Town,” which became a lifesaver. Word of mouth really is gold when you’re learning how to move to a new country.
If you want to read more about why I chose this city, check out my post on moving to Cape Town and why I left Texas.
Why I Chose Cape Town for My Expat Life
When I decided on moving to South Africa, it wasn’t on a whim. I had spent three months in Cape Town before making it official, and I knew it was where I wanted to start this new chapter.
Cape Town has challenges—load shedding, crime in some areas, and cultural differences—but it also offers something magical. Living abroad here means being surrounded by mountains, ocean views, and a warm, vibrant community. Few cities in the world let you hike in the morning, sip wine in the afternoon, and watch the sunset over the Atlantic by evening.
For me, moving abroad wasn’t about running away. It was about moving toward peace, beauty, and a slower, more soulful lifestyle.
Lessons Learned About Living Abroad
I didn’t have a master plan. I didn’t know how it would unfold. But living abroad taught me that uncertainty is not something to fear—it’s often where real growth begins.
If you’re thinking about moving abroad or learning how to move to a new country, especially South Africa, here are my biggest takeaways:
- Do your research
- Ask questions
- Find the right support
- Pack smart
- Trust yourself
Most importantly—just go. Expat life will stretch you, challenge you, and surprise you in ways you can’t plan for. And in the process, you’ll discover a braver, more open version of yourself.
Final Thoughts on Living Abroad
Moving abroad isn’t always glamorous. It comes with paperwork, hiccups, and plenty of unknowns. But if you’re wondering how to move abroad or how to become an expat, the truth is—you learn by doing.
Living abroad in Cape Town has been one of the most rewarding decisions of my life. If you’re on the fence about moving to South Africa, take the leap. The perfect moment won’t come—you create it when you step into the adventure.
For moms-to-be considering this leap, I also wrote about giving birth in South Africa as an expat. And if you’re just here to imagine Cape Town life, check out my guide to the best sushi restaurants in Camps Bay.
FAQ: Living Abroad and Moving to South Africa
What does living abroad really mean?
Living abroad means building your daily life in a country that isn’t your home country. It’s more than just travel—it involves visas, housing, healthcare, and adapting to a new culture.
How do I move to a new country like South Africa?
Start by researching visa options, healthcare systems, and cost of living. Next, plan logistics like shipping belongings, relocating pets, and securing housing. Many expats recommend consulting with an immigration attorney to simplify the visa process.
When is the best time to start living abroad?
There’s no perfect moment. Most expats suggest starting when you’ve saved enough to cover moving expenses and a few months of living costs. If you wait until you feel “fully ready,” you may never go.
Is moving abroad expensive?
Costs vary depending on the country and your lifestyle. For South Africa, expats often find that even paying out of pocket for medical care and housing can be far more affordable than in countries like the U.S.
How do I become an expat in South Africa?
To become an expat, you’ll need the right visa for your situation (spousal, business, study, or retirement). Once you’ve secured your visa, focus on integrating into local life—finding doctors, schools, and joining expat communities.
What is expat life like in Cape Town?
Expat life in Cape Town is vibrant, scenic, and community-driven. You’ll encounter challenges like load shedding, but you’ll also enjoy stunning natural beauty, friendly locals, and a slower pace of life. Many expats say the lifestyle outweighs the difficulties.