What do South African families need to know before moving abroad in 2025?
Families relocating from South Africa in 2025 should prepare for school transfers, pet travel restrictions, visa processes, and emotional readiness.
With careful planning and expert support, your move can be smooth — whether you’re heading to Australia, the UK, Canada, or beyond.
TL;DR: Key Tips for South African Families Emigrating in 2025
- Begin visa and immigration processes early – delays are common
- Compare international and local schooling options abroad (e.g. IEB vs IB)
- Check pet export permits and quarantine requirements (especially for dogs)
- Involve kids in the planning process to reduce anxiety
- Work with relocation experts to navigate complex logistics and documentation
Why Is Relocating Abroad as a South African Family More Complex?
For South African families, relocating abroad often includes exchange rate considerations, complex visa requirements, and the challenge of navigating different schooling systems. These factors — combined with emotional adjustments and shipping logistics — make early planning essential.
Moving Abroad with Children: Tips by Age Group
Babies and Toddlers (0–4 years)
What to know:
They adapt quickly but require lots of gear and routine.
💡 Tips:
- Pack nappies, formula, and familiar toys in your luggage (some brands may not be available abroad).
- Research access to private and public healthcare for children in your destination.
School-Age Children (5–12 years)
What to know:
Adapting to a new curriculum (e.g. British or IB) can be a challenge.
💡 Tips:
- Prepare them for a different school structure and possible cultural shifts.
- Consider schools with strong expat communities or South African ties.
Teenagers (13–18 years)
What to know:
Social circles and school transitions (especially mid-exam years) can be stressful.
💡 Tips:
- Explore options for completing IEB or Cambridge studies abroad if important.
- Encourage virtual hangouts or visits with friends to ease the separation.
What Should South Africans Know About Education Abroad?
Many South African parents worry about how IEB, CAPS, or Cambridge syllabi compare with international standards. Consider:
- Whether your child will switch to IB, British A-Levels, or another system
- The impact on university applications abroad or in SA
- Language barriers in non-English-speaking countries
- Entry age differences (e.g. Year 1 vs Grade 1)
How to Relocate with Pets from South Africa
Exporting pets from South Africa involves strict regulations. Some countries require lengthy documentation and preparation.
Key pet relocation steps:
- Microchip and updated vaccinations (especially rabies)
- Export permits from the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD)
- Vet health certificate and country-specific import paperwork
- Approved airline crates meeting IATA standards
- Quarantine bookings, if required (e.g., in New Zealand)
👉 Important: Australia, the UK, and New Zealand have especially stringent rules. Begin the process 6–12 months ahead. At Crown Relocations, we offer support for all pet relocations .
Emotional Preparation for the Whole Family
Leaving South Africa often means saying goodbye to extended family, helpers, and tight-knit communities — which can be especially hard for kids.
What helps:
- Create a “goodbye ritual” to honour friendships and places
- Plan for regular video calls or holiday visits home
- Celebrate the positives: new adventures, new friends, and global opportunities
Why Professional Help Matters for South African Moves
Whether you’re relocating for safety, opportunity, or lifestyle, Crown Relocations South Africa helps families with:
- Visa and immigration assistance (Australia, UK, Canada, UAE, etc.)
- Pet relocation and documentation
- School search and settling-in services
- Secure shipping and customs clearance
- Destination orientation and home search
We understand the unique needs of South African families — and we’re here to guide every step.
Final Thoughts: A New Start, Made Easier
Relocating your family abroad is a life-changing decision — and it comes with challenges. But with the right planning and guidance, it can open doors to incredible new opportunities. Whether you’re off to Melbourne, Manchester, or Montreal, Crown Relocations South Africa is ready to help you move with confidence.
❓ FAQs: Moving Abroad from South Africa in 2025
Q: What are the top destinations South African families are moving to?
A: In 2025, popular destinations include Australia, the UK, Canada, New Zealand, and the UAE, driven by lifestyle, education, and career opportunities.
Q: Can I take my pets with me abroad?
A: Yes, but each country has specific rules. You’ll need a microchip, vaccinations, export permits, and in many cases, quarantine bookings.
Q: How long does it take to get a visa for my family?
A: It varies. UK and Australian visas can take 3–6 months or more depending on documentation, so it’s best to begin early.
Q: Can my child continue with the South African curriculum abroad?
A: Some international schools offer Cambridge or IEB-aligned pathways, but most use local or IB curriculums. It’s worth speaking to education consultants.
