Ian is the Africa Managing Director for Crown Worldwide Group/Relocations and has been in the removals and world mobility industry for over 40 years..
He has spent a significant part of his career travelling the world getting to know the different cultures and experiencing what our clients need to know before they take on relocating to a new country.
Relocating to a new country is an exciting adventure—but it can also come with a price tag. If you’re a South African planning to go overseas in 2025, you’ll need more than just a passport and plane ticket.
The real cost of an international move includes everything: higher housing costs, expat health insurance, school fees, shipping, and even transporting pets. Beyond the financial side, there’s also the emotional impact of missing home…all of which can feel pretty overwhelming!
So, how much should you budget? What surprises should you prepare for? And how can Crown Relocations help ease the burden? Let’s break it all down.
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Housing Costs: Know What You’re Getting Into
The location you move to will have the biggest impact on your living expenses. In South Africa, the average one-bedroom apartment in a city centre costs around R7,700 per month. But in places like London or Sydney, you could be looking at R20,000 to R35,000 for something similar.
Even countries famously considered “affordable,” like Portugal or Vietnam, will still carry initial setup costs: deposits, agent fees, and possibly a few weeks of temporary accommodation before securing a lease. Therefore, we recommend budgeting extra for:
- Utility setup
- Furnishing (especially if your move is furniture-free)
- Commuting costs, which may rise depending on the city infrastructure
Doing your homework in advance—comparing neighbourhoods, researching cost-of-living indexes—can help prevent financial shock once you land.
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Healthcare Abroad: You’ll Likely Need Expat Health Insurance
South Africa’s dual healthcare system gives residents access to both public and private care. But that might not be the case when you relocate.
Many countries require foreigners to take out expat health insurance before granting a visa. Even in countries with public systems (like the UK or Canada), coverage might not kick in immediately or cover all services. In the U.S., private insurance is the only option, and a comprehensive international plan can easily cost:
- $5,000–$7,000 per year for individuals
- $12,000+ per year for a family
Aside from monthly premiums, remember potential deductibles, co-pays, and out-of-pocket costs for medications or specialists. Planning ahead will help you avoid financial stress during a medical emergency—and give you peace of mind when settling into your new home.
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Education: International Schools Come at a Price
If you’re moving with children, education is another major expense. While some countries offer free public schooling (Germany, for example), many South Africans prefer international schools for language compatibility or to maintain a familiar curriculum.
But this convenience comes at a cost:
- International school fees range from R100,000 to R600,000+ annually per child
- Many charge additional fees for application, enrolment, uniforms, extracurriculars, or transport
If you’re planning to stay long-term, it’s important to consider university tuition, as even public universities can charge foreign students higher rates than locals. Be sure to research what’s available and factor these costs into your long-term relocation budget.
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Transporting Pets: Plan (and Budget) Early
Pets are a part of the family, so it’s no surprise that many expats decide to bring their pets overseas. However, moving animals internationally is a little more complex than simply booking an extra ticket.
Depending on your destination, the cost to transport pets from South Africa can range from R15,000 – R60,000+ per pet. This includes:
- Veterinary checks and vaccinations
- Government-required paperwork and permits
- Crate purchases
- Quarantine (in countries like Australia and New Zealand)
- Professional pet relocation services
We recommend starting the process early, as some countries require vaccinations and waiting periods months in advance. Working with a relocation specialist, like Crown Relocations, can help you meet all regulations and ensure a smooth journey for your furry (or feathered/scaly!) family member.
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The Emotional Costs: Missing Home Is Real
Relocation isn’t just logistical—it’s emotional. While the physical move could be well-planned and exciting, many expats experience culture shock, homesickness, or isolation.
You may find yourself missing home for:
- The familiar language, food, and climate
- Your support system of family and friends
- Traditions, social life, or even a braai on the weekend
It’s key to remember that these feelings are normal, but they can carry costs too. Things like return trips to South Africa, international calling plans, or joining expat clubs abroad can help ease the transition.
It’s a good idea to budget for at least one trip home per year or build in small comforts (like South African snacks, DSTV streaming, or sending gifts back home) that help you stay connected.
Other Hidden Costs
There are many smaller—but important—expenses to keep in mind:
- Shipping and storage: A full household move overseas can cost from R40,000 to R150,000+, depending on volume and destination
- Visas and legal fees: Application fees, translation services, and legalisation of documents can add up
- Language classes: If you’re moving to a non-English-speaking country, this might be essential for work and daily life
- Driver’s licence exchange: Some countries require you to convert your South African licence within a short period, often at a fee
A relocation specialist can help you anticipate and plan for these less obvious costs.
How Can Crown Relocations Help?
Moving abroad is complex—but you don’t have to do it alone. Crown Relocations has 60 years of experience helping individuals and families move around the globe. Here’s how we can help reduce your costs and stress:
✅ Relocation budgeting: We offer tailored guidance on expected costs based on your destination and lifestyle
✅ Pet relocation support: We manage every step, from crate training to customs clearance
✅ Home and school search assistance: Helping you settle into the right neighbourhood and educational system
✅ Visa and documentation coordination: Navigating complex requirements with ease
✅ Shipping and storage: Reliable, secure transport of your belongings
✅ Cultural and emotional support: From area orientation to helping you build a new support network
From Cape Town to Copenhagen, Durban to Dubai—Crown is with you every step of the way.
Summary
The real cost of moving internationally in 2025 depends on many variables, but what’s clear is this: it’s more than just airfare and boxes. You need to plan for housing, healthcare, education, logistics, pets, and yes—even your emotions.
With smart planning and the right support, your move can be smoother, more affordable, and a lot less stressful. When you’re ready to go overseas, Crown Relocations is ready to help.
Let’s make your move make sense—for your family, your finances, and your future.
