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South Africa Bank Accounts

PERSONAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR OPENING A SOUTH AFRICAN BANK ACCOUNT

The procedure for opening a bank account in South Africa relates directly to the type of permit you have been granted. Whilst on a tourist visa you are only able to open a non-resident account. Whilst these accounts can have all the features of a normal banking account they are restrictive in so much as they cannot generally receive deposits in Rands.

There are exceptions to the rule such as if you own a property and let it out (in these exceptions once again the paper trail is of prime importance).

In the first place we would assist you to open a non-residents account so you may transfer funds in from abroad and later on (after your residence permit has been secured) open a residents bank account.

When opening the account it is worth a phone call to ascertain what they require as supporting evidence, typically you will need your passport, proof of your current permit, proof of residential address and possibly some proof of source of funds.


BUSINESS ARRANGEMENTS FOR OPENING A SOUTH AFRICAN BANK ACCOUNT

Your closed corporation can obtain a business account, there would be no currency restrictions in terms of rand deposits on this account, as the closed corporation is viewed as a legal identify in its own right and in your case is incorporated in South Africa.

When opening an account for a close corporation you will be required to provide the following documentation:
  • Founding statement and certificate of Incorporation (Form CK1) and an Amended Founding Statement (CK2),
    if applicable
  • One of the following documents reflecting the trade name and physical business address:


  •   » An original company letterhead
    » Electricity or water bill
    » A bank statement (from another financial institution)
    » Lease or rental agreement
    » Telkom account
    » SARS tax return statement
In addition you will be asked to provide information in respect of your source of income and the type of activities that
can be expected on the account.

All members, authorised signatories and/or any other person who may act on behalf of the close corporation must provide the same information and documentation as stated above, as well as written confirmation that they are authorised to act on behalf of the CC.

Whilst we cannot recommend a particular bank, as each may have its own merits, we are happy to provide you with
their contact details:

  Standard Bank Hotline:
Tel: 0860 123 456
Web: www.standardbank.co.za

ABSA Bank Hotline:
Tel: 0860 008 600
Web: www.absa.co.za
First National Bank Hotline:
Tel: 0860 987 654
Web: www.fnb.co.za

Nedbank Hotline:
Tel: 0860 115 060
Web: www.nedbank.co.za
Cheque Account


A word of caution – the banks in South Africa insist on your presence when opening an account.