South African expatriates, who had, since the mid-1990s, left their homes in search of better opportunities abroad are now choosing to return despite the nation’s ongoing challenges.
This trend, highlighted in a report by The Times, shows a growing preference among these expats to deal with South Africa’s difficulties rather than continue living overseas.
Factors creating this shift include the rising cost of living in the UK and Europe, as well as the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.
“South Africans living in the UK and Europe are becoming more miserable every day with wars on their doorstep, uncontrolled immigration, and the increasing cost of living,” said a Cape Town-based agent for Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty.
“Ultimately, we all aspire to live a better lifestyle and will seek it out.”
A video went viral of a South African expat in Ireland expressing his regret over moving.
The man described the emotional and social challenges of starting fresh in a foreign country, particularly for South Africans.
“Think twice before you leave home. Because when you come to another country, you will be treated worse than rubbish. Good luck. I know now how it feels,” he said.
According to Tax Consulting SA, this pattern in 2024 is set to be up and down, but there are a growing number of South Africans who once left local shores now contemplating a “return to their roots”.
“The world has evolved significantly over the past few years, prompting many to reassess their choices,” the group said.
In April of last year, SA Good News reported that around 350,000 expats had returned to the country with that number believed to be much higher.
Pictured above: South Africa.
Image source: Stock
