Umhlanga Coastline / Climate and conditions Kwazulu Natal North Coast / information on South Africa

Umhlanga Coastline

Immigration

Legalities
entry visa
work permit
bringing in your pets

Practicalities
evaluating your decision
transportation of goods
local considerations
get the timing right

Resources
consultants & Attorneys
official information

Property Services

Estate Agents
Removal Companies
Van and Truck Hire
Trailer Hire
Storage Facilities
Pet transportation and Boarding

Local Considerations

In addition to things like public transport and local infrastructures, there are a number of additional things to take into account when considering immigration.

Many of these will not even be considered in the bustle of tending to more important things. For example, if you are coming from a cold region like Europe the chances are that you will need to completely revamp your wardrobe for the South African climate.

On our general lack of public transport, count on needing a vehicle from the moment that you arrive. Car hire is one option, but not the most cost-effective in the long term. Good used cars can be purchased for a reasonable price if you shop around, but be careful to use reputable dealers who offer warranties that are worth something and good after-sales service.

When purchasing a car you will need to get it registered into your name as soon as possible, which means getting it passed through the roadworthy test. Most dealers will do this for you and it is normally best to let them save you the hassle, but be sure that it gets done.

If you are going for a used vehicle and decide not to use one of the bigger, better-known dealers, please make sure that you have first had the vehicle checked by the police (not stolen) and that you get all the car papers. It is a good idea to have the license number checked by the traffic department for outstanding road offences as well.

Finding your way around can be a nightmare in some places and in the Durban area in particular. Although we have a great freeway system, it is once you are off the freeways that things get more complicated.

With the area being fairly hilly, few suburban roads run in straight lines and it is easy to get lost. Make the purchase of a streetmap one of your first priorities. These are available from any CNA (Central News Agency) and most petrol stations.

Whether you are purchasing or renting a property, tap your estate agent or the person you are dealing with for as much related information as possible. - How to get your lights connected, where to make application for a telephone, where to pay your lights, rates, water and other related bills.

Remember to ask what the basic cost of these items are on the property, because it varies from one area to the next. Also remember to ask on what day of the week refuse is collected.

Much of the more general information is available on this website for your convenience and much more will be added as it continues to grow, so keep checking back.

Get connected into the local community as soon as possible. Accept all invitations, attend local meetings and reach out to invite others. From this you will soon learn the local ways and make local connections. This building up of a local support structure can be your most valuable asset.

More specific local information can be found in our travel tips section.