A Guide for South Africans Abroad: How to Invest in Property and Build Wealth Back Home

Thousands of South Africans living abroad dream of investing back home — not just for capital growth, but for cash-flowing properties that create stability and safety nets for themselves when they return, and for their families in the long run.

But for many, the biggest challenge isn’t finding the right property. It’s navigating the paperwork banks require to approve a home loan.

The Documentation Hurdle

South African banks typically require 3 months of payslips and 3 months of bank statements for pre-qualification. For South Africans working abroad, the bar is even higher — banks usually want 6 months of payslips and statements.

This can feel like a roadblock. Some diaspora investors are paid annually, others receive payslips in Korean or Chinese, and many only have screenshots of deposits. So what then?

Expert Insights from Kobus Nel

We spoke with Kobus Nel, a seasoned bond originator from ProMortgage who is one of our highly recommended service providers at investRand, who shared why banks are strict — and how to work within the system.

• Why banks require these documents

“The three months of payslips and bank statements prove consistency. For South Africans abroad, it’s six months — it shows the bank you’ve passed probation, that your income is steady, and it reduces risk.”

• Annual salary or bonus payments

“Bonuses or once-off annual payments aren’t guaranteed. Banks may average three years’ worth and only use 50–75% of the figure, but many won’t use them at all.”

• Foreign income transfers into SA accounts

“Banks always want to see the original account where your salary is paid. Transferring money into South Africa helps build a relationship with your bank here, but it doesn’t replace the original statements.”

• Foreign-language payslips and statements

“Employment contracts are critical. If payslips don’t exist, six months of statements plus the contract can work. And yes — bond originators can work with Korean or Chinese statements by using translations, but banks will usually require an English contract.”

• 100% home loans for South Africans abroad

“It is possible — especially for highly skilled professionals like doctors and engineers. But many will qualify for 80–90% loans instead, depending on the industry and risk profile.”

Practical Steps to Prepare

If you’re 6–12 months away from applying for a bond, Kobus Nel suggests:

1. Save at least 10% of your target purchase price in a South African account. This proves affordability and discipline.

2. Keep your work permit and employment contract valid for at least six months before applying.

3. Send part of your income into a South African account each month to build a local banking history.

   
   

Mistakes to Avoid

• Waiting until your work contract has expired before applying.

• Not sending any money back to SA (leaving no local record of income).

• Only shopping for property once you’ve returned to SA, making it harder to access foreign payslips and statements.

  
  

Encouragement & Belonging

The process may feel daunting, but you’re not alone. Diaspora investors are part of a growing community of South Africans building wealth back home.

As Kobus explains:

“It’s a good time to invest in South Africa. Property prices are rising, rental demand is strong, and making an offer subject to bond approval is low risk. If you’re declined, you walk away — no cost, no obligation.”

With the right preparation and a partner like investRand, you can navigate the paperwork and secure a property portfolio that funds your financial freedom — even while living abroad.

Ready to Start?

👉 Book a free strategy call with investRand today, and let’s prepare your pathway to investing back home.

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Note: The content in this article is based on research and intended for informational purposes only. Always consult with professionals and conduct your own due diligence before making any investment decisions.