Settling-In Tips from
Staff at Crown Pretoria

What is special or unique about your city?

Pretoria is one of South Africa's three capital cities, serving as the executive or administrative capital. Many of the city's streets are lined with Jacaranda trees that blossom purplish blue in spring, giving rise to the city's nickname of "Jacaranda City". Having grown in a much more organized and sedate manner than its bustling neighbour, Johannesburg, and thanks to some great foresight by the city fathers, it also boasts over 100 parks, including bird sanctuaries and nature reserves. Pretoria also plays host to many diverse cultural and artistic activities, the Pretoria State Theatre being in the forefront of these.

What are a newcomer's first impressions of your city?

Pretoria is a lovely city, sprawling across the hills of the northern highveld, quietly absorbing the cultural mixes that its designation of administrative capital brings to it.

Are these impressions likely to change?

Pretoria's welcome and hospitality help to strengthen the first impressions of tranquility and beauty.

What is the local language?

Although there are 11 officially recognized languages in South Africa, English is the official language.

How easily could I live in this city without knowing this language?

It is advisable to have at least a working knowledge of English.

What are good things to remember in order to avoid offending the other residents of this city?

Respect for all other cultures and traditions, as well as patience and tolerance for all people whose home language is not English.

How might the local weather affect my daily life?

November to April is mostly warm to hot, with afternoon and evening thunderstorms which can cause a moderate drop in the temperature. May to October tends towards sunny, warm days, but cold to very cold early mornings and evenings, with early morning frost quite a common occurrence. Layered dressing is advisable. Pretoria tends to be a couple of degrees warmer than Johannesburg, despite only being approximately 50 kilometres apart.

Is there anything else I should know about the overall character of your city or its people?

Pretoria is one of South Africa's leading academic cities, being home to both the largest residential university in the country, the University of Pretoria, and the largest distance education university, being the University of South Africa, more commonly known as UNISA. The South African Council for Scientific and Industrial Research is also located in Pretoria.

Useful Links

www.pretoria.co.za General Information on Pretoria www.gauteng.net General information on the province of Gauteng www.southafrica.info General information on Pretoria and South Africa

 

As a foreign resident, what is my status in your country?

Your status in South Africa will depend on the type of visa or work permit on which you entered the country. Most foreigners are issued with temporary work permits.

What kinds of visas are available?

Certain countries require a visitor's visa, check on the Home Affairs internet site, otherwise work, study and business permits are available.

What is required to obtain these visas?

Applications must be made through a suitable immigration specialist as there are strict criteria for entry into South Africa for work purposes.

Are spouses permitted and/or likely to find work?

This is dependent on the type of permit the partner holds and it is advisable to check with the immigration specialist. Charities are always open to offers of volunteer assistance.

What are the main forms of identification and how does a newcomer obtain them?

Your passport is the main form of identification.

Are there any other important permits I must obtain, or places where I must register right away?

It is recommended that you register at your relevant consulate on arrival in South Africa, so they have you on their records in case of problems with passports or other documents.

What items should I avoid bringing into the country?

South Africa has fairly strict customs and quarantine regulations and it is advisable to check the relevant website for information on prohibited and restricted items.

Is there anything else I should know about entering and remaining in the country legally?

Ensure that work permits and passports are valid, and renew well in advance of expiry dates.

Useful Links

www.gov.sa South African Government website www.home-affairs.gov.sa Ministry of Home Affairs for visa and permit information www.sars.gov.za For customs and quarantine regulations

 

What is the local currency?

The South African Rand (R) is the local currency. Each rand is equivalent to 100 cents.

What denominations does it come in?

Coins come in denominations of 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, R1, R2 and R5. Notes are issued in values of R10, R20, R50, R100 and R200.

What is the best way to exchange currency?

Banks and Bureau de Changes are the most common and safest exchange methods. Some hotels will also exchange currencies for their guests.

What are commonly-used forms of payment for everyday purchases (such as groceries)?

Cash and credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard and American Express are most common.

Will I be able to use my credit card around town? If not, list when I’ll need cash.

Most retail outlets will accept credit cards, but some smaller shops and restaurants may only accept cash. Fuel outlets (petrol stations) only accept cash or Fuel Cards.

By what method are bills (such as rent and utilities) paid?

Internet banking, telephone banking and some ATMs will allow payment for utilities. The major supermarket chains (Checkers and Pick 'n Pay) have facilities for payment of utilities at their check-out counters.

What are the requirements for opening a bank account? At what stage of the settling-in process should I open it?

Opening a bank account requires producing an identity document, a salary pay slip, residence permit, tax number and proof of residence, such as a utility bill no older than 3 months. A deposit may also be required. It is best to check with the relevant bank as to their exact requirements.

Will foreign residents be able to find banking services in their native languages?

Some foreign banks are represented in Pretoria.

Are there any restrictions on services for those who are new to your country?

No restrictions are known, but best to check when opening the account.

What are typical banking hours?

Monday to Friday 9.00am to 3.30pm, Saturday 9.00am to 11.00am.

Are automatic teller machines (ATMs) available around the clock?

Yes, although some do not accept deposits.

Is there any other money information that might help me?

Reward systems are linked to many credit cards whereby benefits are awarded depending on points accrued.

Useful Links

www.absa.co.za Absa Bank www.standardbank.co.za Standard Bank www.nedbank.co.za Nedbank Limited www.fnb.co.za First National Bank

 

What are the top factors to keep in mind when searching for a place to live in your city?

Proximity to office and schools is a major consideration so as to avoid long commutes. The type of accommodation (such as free-standing house, apartment etc) should also be considered and the level of security required.

What are the most popular neighborhoods in your city for expats?

The eastern suburbs of Pretoria tend to be the more popular, upmarket residential areas, consisting of Menlo Park, Brooklyn, Groenkloof and Lynnwood. Waterkloof is also a well-established eastern suburb, housing some of the city's most expensive real estate, including government and ambassadorial residences.

Do expats tend to buy or rent their homes?

The majority rent.

Typically, will I be required to pay additional money up front (such as a deposit) before moving into leased housing? If so, how much is common?

Before the keys are handed over, a deposit of two months rent must be paid. The lease document will state the terms of any refund on vacation of the premises.

Are utilities generally included in the price of rent, or are they extra?

The landlord pays the rates and taxes applicable to the property, but electricity, water, phone and gas if provided, are all payable by the tenant.

Are there special security concerns I should be aware of in regards to my home or choice of neighborhood?

Security is an issue in Pretoria and home-owners have catered for this in various ways, mostly in the form of burglar alarms, which are very often linked to rapid response teams. Gated communities, cluster homes or complexes tend to be more secure, but it is important to maintain your own level of security by keeping outside doors locked, and to be vigilant when answering callers to your house that you do not know. Always be aware of what is going on around you, especially when driving in or out of your property.

I’m not sure if I should bring my appliances. What is the electric current, Hz and plug shape in your city?

Electricity supply is 230V AC50Hz and three prong round or two pin round plugs are used. Adaptors can be purchased if required, and US-made appliances may need a transformer. Televisions and videos operate on the PAL system.

Do you have any other accommodation information that might help me?

Temporary accommodation is available, depending on the duration required. Unfurnished rental properties are the norm, but furnished homes can be found.

Useful Links

www.sa-venues.com/accommodation General accommodation www.roomsforafrica.com Furnished temporary accommodation www.wheretostay.co.za Hotels. Guest houses, B & B

 

What types of schools do most expats in your city choose for their children?

Expatriates generally enroll their children either in the North American International School or private schools.

What are some examples of these schools?

There are many good private schools to choose from, among which are St Albans College for Boys, St Marys Diocesan School for Girls, Crawford Schools, British International College and Max Stibbe Waldorf School. This is a small selection of what is available.

Is there a lot of competition for spots in local schools?

The private schools do have waiting lists, but places will normally be found for expatriates.

Are pre-schools also widely available (for children approx. 2 to 5 years old)?

Yes, there are many pre-schools to choose from. There are waiting lists, but again, places can be found for expatriate children. Children attend pre-school from the ages of 3 - 6.

How are most kids transported to and from school?

Parents generally transport their children to and from school.

When does the typical school year start and end?

The school year starts in January and ends in December. Most private schools have three terms within the year.

Is there anything else I should know about local schools?

Matric is the examination level studied for in South African schools, although GSCE and International Baccalaureate are offered in selected private schools. Children normally enter grade 1 at 7 years of age.

Useful Links

www.education.gov.za Government Schools www.isasa.org Private Schools in South Africa www.saprivateschools.co.za Private Schools information in South Africa

 

IMPORTANT NOTE:
Crown Relocations has made every effort to present accurate information. However, regulations, rates and other variables are subject to change and Crown Relocations cannot accept responsibility for the errors that might result. Please contact your closest embassy or consulate for confirmation.