The allure of foreign shores has never been stronger for South Africans. A recent survey by The Stepstone Group, Boston Consulting Group, and Network, in conjunction with CareerJunction, has unveiled the compelling reasons behind this potential mass exodus. With a staggering 80% of survey respondents expressing intentions to emigrate in 2024, it is clear that many South Africans find themselves faced with a difficult, life-changing decision to make: to stay or to go.

While the exact statistics in relation to South Africans emigrating and living abroad are hard to pinpoint, it’s clear that it is a big deal. South Africa has seen a significant increase in its citizens considering emigration in recent years, so much so that it has been labelled South Africa’s “brain drain”. With this in mind, let’s briefly unpack the major reasons for emigration from South Africa.

Read more: If emigration isn’t an option, explore these valuable tips for staying in South Africa.

Should we go? Reasons for leaving South Africa

While the decision is by no means one that is ever taken lightly, there are a number of considerations involved in the decision to emigrate from South Africa. Each individual and family will have their own combination of reasons, and their own personal circumstances will dictate the conditions of their emigration from South Africa, there are a handful of common threads that emerge from the survey, usually evident in most conversations around the braai and on expat forums. Those weighing up their options are most likely to tip the scales in favour of emigration due to the following reasons to leave South Africa:

1. Economic instability:

• High unemployment rates
• Inflation and currency fluctuations
• Limited economic growth opportunities

2. Crime and safety concerns:

• Rising crime rates
• Lack of safety in communities
• Concerns for personal and family security

3. Education and healthcare:

• Deteriorating quality of public education
• Increasing costs of private education
• Concerns about healthcare accessibility and affordability

4. Political climate and governance:

• Lack of confidence in government
• Corruption and political instability
• Concerns about the future of the country

5. Better quality of life:

• Desire for a safer environment
• Access to better infrastructure (roads, electricity, water)
• Opportunities for personal growth and development
• Improved work-life balance

These factors collectively contribute to a growing perception among many South Africans that opportunities and a better quality of life can be found elsewhere, making for compelling reasons to leave South Africa.

Read more: New normal – the impact of emigration from South Africa on those left behind.

Looking at the motivation behind emigration from South Africa

The post-election political landscape, marked by uncertainty and coalition negotiations, has exacerbated existing economic challenges. This volatile environment has pushed many to the brink, prompting a reevaluation of long-term prospects within South Africa. The survey’s findings offer a stark reality check, highlighting the key factors driving this migration out of South Africa.

Financial security emerges as a top motivator for South Africans seeking greener pastures. A substantial 59% of respondents identified improved financial prospects as their primary reason for considering emigration, making the pursuit of higher earnings and a more stable economic climate a compelling force for many.

While not the top priority, career advancement also plays a significant role in the decision-making process. The promise of professional growth and expanded opportunities abroad is enticing for ambitious individuals. However, it’s noteworthy that South Africans, unlike their global counterparts, prioritise concrete job offers over career advancement, demonstrating a pragmatic approach to their relocation plans. In other words, they might even be willing to take a step down, if it meant a ticket out of the country.

The desire for an enhanced quality of life is another major factor influencing emigration decisions. A yearning for safer communities, better public services, and a higher standard of living is driving many to seek alternative destinations. South Africa’s persistent challenges in these areas have eroded the appeal of staying.

Read more: The impact of emigration out of South Africa: Analysing skills shortage in South Africa.

The lessons behind the reasons to leave South Africa

The survey’s findings highlight the critical need for South Africa to address the underlying issues driving this mass migration. Creating a conducive business environment, investing in education and infrastructure, and improving overall living conditions are essential steps to stem South Africa’s brain drain. Failure to reverse these trends is likely to have far-reaching consequences for the country’s economy and social fabric. The loss of skilled professionals and entrepreneurs will hinder growth and innovation, while the departure of young, educated individuals will deprive South Africa of a vital pool of future leaders.

Taking South Africa to the world

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, talent mobility is a global reality. South Africans are highly sought after internationally due to our strong work ethic, resilience, diverse skill set, bilingualism, and quality education. These attributes, coupled with our entrepreneurial spirit, make South Africans valuable assets in global job markets, particularly in sectors like technology, finance, and healthcare. As such, the allure of greener pastures will always be strong, with so much opportunity out there.

Read more:

• Leaving South Africa – moving abroad and thriving as an expat.
• Top reasons South Africans living abroad consider tax emigration.

FinGlobal: cross-border financial specialists for expats

If you’re one of thousands of South Africans planning an international relocation, we’d like to congratulate you on having made such a tough decision for your future. We’d also like to ensure that was the last tough decision you’ll have to make when it comes to your emigration from South Africa. By choosing FinGlobal as your financial migration partner, you can rest assured that we’re committed to making your financial transition as smooth and hassle-free as possible. Our team of cross-border financial planners, tax professionals and exchange control specialists are waiting to assist you with everything from tax emigration, to retirement annuity encashment, tax refunds, foreign exchange and more.

To find out more about our convenient services for South Africans living abroad, leave your contact details below and we’ll be in touch to discuss your financial requirements.