Can A Foreigner Buy a Car in South Africa?

With South Africa’s rich cultural diversity and breathtaking landscapes, it’s no wonder that many foreigners who visit the Rainbow Nation can’t help but stay. And with cars being the backbone of South Africa’s transportation system, a key step to settling in South Africa is buying your very own car.

The process of buying a car in South Africa as a foreigner can seem a bit complicated and overwhelming with lots of regulations and requirements. That’s why we’re here to help guide you with everything you need to know to buy a car in South Africa as a foreigner and ensure a smooth move to your new home overseas in the Rainbow Nation!

Can A Foreigner Buy a Car in South Africa?

Yes, foreigners can definitely buy a car in South Africa. While it is possible with a temporary tourist visa, it does make the process a bit more tricky than with permanent residence. Owning a car is within reach, but understanding the required documents and the overall process is crucial for a successful purchase.

4 Steps to Buying a Car as a Foreigner in South Africa

1. Find a Reputable Dealer

The first step is crucial – finding a trustworthy dealership or private seller. To ensure the vehicle's condition, consider having it inspected by a qualified mechanic before making a purchase. This step is essential, especially when dealing with used cars.

2. Register with eNaTIS

The National Traffic Information System (eNaTIS) is a critical part of the vehicle registration process in South Africa. South African residents are automatically loaded onto eNaTIS, but non-residents have to be loaded onto it by obtaining a Traffic Register Number (TRN).

3. Obtain a TRN

Applying for a Traffic Registration Number (TRN) is a critical step for a foreigner to register a car in South Africa in their own name.

While technically you should be able to do this at any local traffic department in the country, some foreigners have experienced obstacles at many of them, recommending the Cape Town traffic departments for a smoother process. This process can take up to six weeks, so if your visa is only for 90 days, make sure to get the ball rolling as soon as possible.

To obtain your TRN, you need to provide the following documents:

• A certified copy of their passport, driver's licence, visa and any other travel documents

• 2 black-and-white ID photographs

• Proof of address, typically a utility bill (if the address is not in the buyer's name, an affidavit from the bill owner is required to verify you live at that address)

Note that all documents should be certified which you can do for free at any local police station.

4. Submission of Registration Documents

If you’re buying your vehicle from a dealership, they typically handle the registration process. However, if you’re buying privately, the buyer must submit the registration documents to the traffic department. This involves filling out two forms: a Notice of Change of Ownership and an Application for Registration and Licensing of Motor Vehicle Form.

The following information and documents are required:

• Proof of payment

• Passport

• Foreign driving licence

• Proof of residence

• Traffic registration number

• The previous owner’s name and change of ownership form (for a used car)

• A roadworthy certificate which is valid for 60 days (for a used car)

The registration fees for motorbikes and passenger vehicles vary from R300 to R1 800. These fees cover the process of registering the vehicle in the new owner's name.

Once the vehicle is registered, please ensure that you remember to renew the licence each year.

Where to Find Cars to Buy in South Africa

To find your perfect new car, there is a wide range of vehicles available — you just have to know where to look. Here are some of the top places to find cars to buy in South Africa:

• Trusted online platforms like autotrader.co.za, cars.co.za and webuycars.co.za offer extensive listings, providing a convenient way to browse and compare various models

• Gumtree and Facebook groups are popular places for people to list used cars

• Dealerships are also a great place to look if you prefer to browse in person, including popular makes such as Volkswagen, BMW, Toyota, Honda, etc. as well as used car dealerships

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How Much Does a Car Cost in South Africa?

In South Africa, the cost of buying a car varies widely based on several factors such as make, model and condition.

The average price for a new car in South Africa is approximately R387 000. However, the market for used cars provides a broader range, with prices typically spanning from R50 000 to R300 000 or more, depending on the vehicle's age, mileage and specifications.

It's crucial to conduct thorough research, compare prices from different sellers and factor in additional expenses like registration fees and insurance when budgeting for your new vehicle.

Car Insurance Tips

Car insurance is a critical aspect of owning a vehicle, especially in South Africa, offering financial protection and peace of mind to drivers.

Comprehensive insurance is a common choice, covering incidents both within the country and, in some cases, extending to neighbouring nations for cross-border travel. Popular car insurance providers in South Africa include:

• OUTsurance

• King Price

• Momentum

• Santam

• Old Mutual.

When arranging insurance, policyholders need to specify all possible drivers and the countries they intend to visit. Many insurance companies require the installation of a tracking device on the vehicle for theft protection.

Costs for insurance vary based on factors such as coverage limits, driving history and the type of vehicle. Generally, comprehensive car insurance in South Africa may cost anywhere from R800 to R2 500 per month. Additionally, understanding the insurance requirements is particularly vital for foreigners buying cars in South Africa.

Read more about car insurance in South Africa here.

Need Help Transporting Your New Vehicle?

Once you’ve bought your fresh, new car, you may need some help transporting it to you. And with all the effort you put into securing this vehicle, you want only the most trusted vehicle transport services to bring you your car in perfect condition.

That’s where Wise Move comes in which connects you with the most trusted and affordable vehicle transport services across South Africa. Check out Wise Move to get your quote.