Living in Pretoria as an expatriate

Visa requirements

Expats planning to move to Pretoria should apply for a work visa, which is valid for up to five years, through the Department of Home Affairs. Applicants should provide a valid passport and a copy of their job offer, and the process can take between 4 and 6 weeks.

Language resources

Pretoria's official language is Afrikaans, alongside English as a second language. Expats are advised to learn basic Afrikaans phrases to ensure seamless communication, widely spoken in shops and around suburbs. English is also widely spoken in the central business district and major tourist areas.

Housing

Pretoria's cost of living is comparatively low compared to larger commercial hubs like Johannesburg. A room inside a shared house in a mid-range neighbourhood costs around ZAR 3500 to ZAR 7500 (USD 231 to USD 519) per month, and commuting to the city centre can cost about ZAR 450 (USD 31.5) per month. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre costs approximately ZAR 6500 (USD 459) per month, while a three-bedroom house in a popular neighbourhood ranges from ZAR 13500 (USD 959) to ZAR 20000 (USD 1427) per month.

Groceries

The cost of groceries in Pretoria varies by neighbourhood and type of store, with shopping at discounters resulting in lower costs. Expats can expect to spend around ZAR 1200 (USD 85.0) for a monthly basket of groceries for a family of four, while a mid-range supermarket will cost around ZAR 1600 (USD 116.6).

Transportation

Transportation in Pretoria is affordable, with reliable public transportation and well-developed roads facilitating easy commuting. Commuters can expect to pay around ZAR 25 (USD 1.8) to travel 20 kilometres (12.4 miles) on Rea Vaya BRT, while a taxi ride within the city can cost approximately ZAR 250 (USD 18.2). Metrorail offers an affordable commute within the city, with fares starting around ZAR 18 (USD 1.3).

Pretoria enjoys a temperate, subtropical climate, with mild winters and hot summers. The winter months, from May to August, are dry and cold, with temperatures averaging between 5 °C (41 °F) and 18 °C (64.4 °F). The summer season, from September to April, is wet and warm, with temperatures ranging from 22-25 °C (71.6-77 °F). The city's altitude of 1346 meters (4415 feet) gives it cool evenings and pleasant mornings, making it an ideal destination for expats who enjoy the outdoors.

Pretoria's economy is robust and diverse, with agriculture, finance, and manufacturing as the major contributors to the city's economy. Popular industries include biotechnology, engineering, information technology, and renewable energy. With a young, educated population and a strong entrepreneurial culture, Pretoria is home to many start-ups and SMEs exploring innovative and creative ideas. Key employers in Pretoria include Sasol, Transnet, Gauteng Provincial Government, and Air Products South Africa.

Pretoria offers an impressive array of contemporary health care facilities, ranging from top-tier private hospitals and clinics to efficient and affordable public hospitals. The Helderkruin Mediclinic, Netcare Pretoria East Hospital, and Netcare Unitas Hospital are three reputed private hospitals that provide specialized medical services with world-class equipment and medical expertise. In particular, the private sector is significantly developed in Pretoria, offering easy access to private hospitals, clinics, and specialist services.

Pretoria's public transportation system serves as a lifeline for many commuters, connecting its neighborhoods, the CBD, and suburbs. The city's transit network includes Metrorail Gautrain, Rea Vaya Bus rapid transit (BRT), and Metrobus, making traveling to work, school, or the city's attractions a breeze. Additionally, taxis and private vehicles offer reliable transportation within the city's boundaries.

Pretoria is a relatively safe city compared to other capital cities in South Africa, earning a place in the top ten safest cities outside of major cities in the annual report on the safety of South African cities by IKAMVA laboratory. The crime rate in Pretoria is lower during the day, but it is advisable to be alert and follow safety precautions, especially in the evening. Some of the safest areas in Pretoria for expats include Waterkloof, Pretoria East, and Lynnwood Ridge. Areas that may require additional caution include Atteridgeville and Soshanguve.