With more than 5.5 million British expats living outside the UK, many are drawn abroad in search of a better climate, a different or improved quality of life, or a more affordable lifestyle. If you're looking for a fresh start, might just be the place for you, with its landscapes, weather, lower cost of living, and great quality of life. The country was recently named as one of the three countries for British expats to move to in 2025 by , a British document services company assisting applicants worldwide who are living in the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Europe, and Asia.

The company cited how English is one of the of the country's eleven official languages and is commonly spoken across its regions, including in business settings, making it easier for British expats to adapt and move there. Another perk is how Brits can live seasonally in the country spending winters in the South African sun without needing a visa for up to 90 days.

The country enjoys over 2,500 hours of sunshine every year, with low rainfall, and a vibrant outdoor lifestyle.

From the arid deserts to the lush wine country valleys, South Africa offers diverse landscapes like the stunning Blyde River Canyon, the rugged Drakensberg Mountains, and the beautiful white-sand beaches like that of Boulder's Beach, home to a unique penguin colony.

Other iconic beaches include Clifton Beach with its golden sands and Camps Bay with its breathtaking mountainous backdrop.

Those choosing to retire in South Africa often gravitate toward the coastal regions, where the views are stunning and the pace of life is slower and more laid-back.

The KwaZulu-Natal coast offers a warm, humid climate with mild winters, while the Cape region is home to iconic landmarks like Table Mountain, along with beautiful white-sand beaches and wine country.

According to insurance provider, , the cost of living in South Africa is roughly 65% lower than in the UK, allowing expats to enjoy a higher quality of life.

There are about 200,000 expats already living in South Africa, according to the , and if you'd like to spend longer than 90 days in the country you'll have to apply for the temporary residency permit or a permanent residency permit and comply with some financial requirements and medical exams.

British citizens typically start with a Temporary Residence Permit, which allows them to live and work for up to three years and during this time they can apply for a permanent residency.

To retire in South Africa, individuals over 50 need a minimum annual income of R37,000 (approx. £2,150), and those under 50 need R66,000 (approx. £3,840) though additional financial support is required for dependents.