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Banking in South Africa

Setting up a bank account in person in South Africa is relatively easy - you will need to show proof of identity and proof of your address in South Africa. It would be wise to check out bank websites before you open an account to find information on services and fees (as some banks can charge quite high fees).

If you want to open an account before leaving the UK you will probably need more documentation. You could also see if your bank in the UK has an agreement with banks in South Africa - they can help you to open an account with a bank before you leave - although they may charge you a fee.

You can obtain cash through ATMs throughout South Africa, but be aware that they can sometimes run out of money - so be prepared. Daily withdrawals are usually limited to around R2000.

There are many major banks in South Africa. Here are just some of them:

• ABN AMRO Bank
• African Bank
• Barclays of South Africa
• Citibank South Africa
• First National Bank
• First Rand Bank
• Imperial Bank
• Investec Bank
• MEEG Bank
• Mercantile Bank
• Ned Bank
• Peoples Bank
• Sasfin Bank
• Standard Bank of South Africa
• WesBank

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