Living in Port Elizabeth as an expatriate

Visa requirements

Foreign nationals need a valid passport and a South African visa to enter the country. Expats should consult the South African Department of Home Affairs website for detailed visa requirements, procedures, and application guidelines. Based on their nationality, expats may also need to apply for additional permits or certificates needed for residence and employment.

Language resources

English is the primary language in Port Elizabeth, so expats won't face any language barriers. Nevertheless, learning isiXhosa or Afrikaans, spoken by the local population, might come in handy in some social and professional circles. Some language learning programmes and language exchange platforms are available for expats to attain basic proficiency.

Housing

The cost of living in Port Elizabeth is relatively affordable compared to similar metropolitan areas in South Africa. Expatriates have a vast selection of accommodation options, depending on their budget and preferences. A studio or one-bedroom apartment in the city centre can cost between ZAR 6,000 to ZAR 9,000 per month ($400 – $620 USD). A two-bedroom apartment in a central location averages around ZAR 12,000 to ZAR 15,000 per month ($820 – $1,025 USD). Detached homes with three or more bedrooms range from ZAR 18,000 to ZAR 27,000 per month ($1,265 – $1,950 USD).

Groceries

The cost of groceries in Port Elizabeth is reasonably affordable compared to other South African cities, making it an attractive destination for expats. Staples like bread, milk, and cheese are reasonably priced, with a week's worth of basic goods costing around ZAR 800 ($56 USD). A mid-range restaurant meal for two costs around ZAR 500 ($35 USD).

Transportation

Expats will find the public transportation system highly cost-effective, with electric trams and metrobus fares set to around ZAR 19 ($1.35 USD) for a single journey. Monthly passes cost around ZAR 500 ($35 USD). For private transportation, car rental costs begin around ZAR 3,500 ($240 USD) per week, while petrol prices average around ZAR 19.51 per litre ($1.39 USD).

Port Elizabeth has a mild, subtropical climate characterised by mild winters and warm summers. The city experiences moderate rainfall thanks to the wet southeaster winds that blow in during summer. The average annual temperature is around 17°C (63°F).

Port Elizabeth's job market is highly diversified, presenting international professionals with an array of opportunities across various sectors. The city's economy is boosted by major industries such as automobile manufacturing, food processing, aerospace manufacturing, and renewable energy. With a booming economy and a developing market, expats will find it easy to secure work in Port Elizabeth. English-speaking expats will find job hunting easier as English is widely spoken in the city.

Port Elizabeth boasts exceptional healthcare facilities, with world-class medical institutions and advanced medical technology at hand. The city has several hospitals catering to both public and private healthcare needs. The University Hospital in Port Elizabeth, affiliated with the Nelson Mandela University's College of Health Sciences, is especially renowned for its medical research and advanced medical treatments.

Port Elizabeth boasts an extensive public transportation system, with electric trams and metro buses running throughout the city. The urban network connects major landmarks, museums, shopping centres, and recreation facilities, with fares being affordable. Expatriates who prefer private transportation can take advantage of the city's reliable car rental services and can also buy and import cars with relative ease. Additionally, the Cape Town International Airport is easily reachable by car or public bus, making travel convenient for expats.

While Port Elizabeth ranks among South Africa's safest cities, it's essential to take some necessary precautions when moving around the city. Expats should avoid walking alone, particularly at night, in unfamiliar areas. They ought to be cautious around crowded places and public transport stations, especially during peak hours. It's advisable to invest in home security measures like door and window bars, alarms, and security cameras.