Selling Property as a Non-Resident

MYSOUTHAFRICA | RESOURCES

Selling Property as a Non-Resident

You can sell your South African property from anywhere in the world — but SARS still taxes the gain, and a withholding tax applies before you’re paid.

Here’s what to expect, in brief.

The Two Taxes That Apply

1. Capital Gains Tax. Payable on your profit (selling price less purchase price, transfer costs, renovations and selling costs).

For individuals, the effective rate is up to 18%.

The primary residence exclusion generally does not apply to non-residents.

2. Section 35A withholding tax. On sales over R2 million, the conveyancer must withhold part of the price and pay it to SARS upfront:*

Seller	Rate withheld
Individual	7.5%
Company	10%
Trust	15%

*Good news: this isn’t a final tax — it’s credited against your CGT, and any excess is refunded. Selling at a loss or expecting a lower bill? Apply to SARS for a reduced-rate directive (form NR03) before transfer.

The Process in 4 Steps

1. Get SARS-compliant

Tax number active, returns filed (including rental income), no debt. Non-compliance is the #1 cause of delays.

2. Appoint your team

Estate agent and conveyancer; if you’re abroad, a notarised power of attorney lets documents be signed for you.

3. Sell and transfer

The conveyancer handles clearances and certificates, withholds the Section 35A amount, and registers transfer.

4. Declare and repatriate

File your return to reconcile the CGT, then move the proceeds offshore via SARS’s Approval for International Transfer (AIT).

Quick Document Checklist

SARS tax number and proof of compliance
Title deed (or bond details)
Proof of base cost: purchase, renovation and transfer records
FICA: certified passport copy and proof of address abroad
Notarised power of attorney (if signing from abroad)
NR03 directive application (if applying for reduced withholding)

Need Help Selling From Abroad?

Our vetted partners handle the full journey — Property & Legal Services for the sale and transfer, Tax & Compliance Support for SARS and NR03 directives, and Financial & Currency Solutions for moving your proceeds offshore.