From South Africa to the States: A guide to Visa and Living Expenses in the U.S.

Moving from South Africa to the United States is a bold step into new opportunities and experiences, but only if you start off on the right foot. In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know as a citizen of the Rainbow Nation about visas, the cost of living, and education in the U.S.

Diverse visa types: South Africa to USA

Before you set off on your journey when moving to America, you need to navigate the complexities of U.S. visa options. From student visas (F-1, M-1) to immigrant (Green Card), tourist (B-1/B-2), and work (H1-B, O-1) visas, there’s a spectrum of options tailored to your objectives.

For prospective students from South Africa, the F-1 visa could be your golden ticket. It’s designed for those who wish to study full-time in the USA at an accredited academic institution. Conversely, the H1-B visa is for those with specialised occupations, while the EB-5 program can provide a pathway to permanent residency through investment in the U.S. economy.

Each visa category has specific application fees and processing times. The F-1 and M-1 student visa application fees, for instance, vary based on the academic program’s exchange visitor category – a U.S. Department of State initiative that facilitates cultural exchange and mutual understanding between Americans and people from other countries.

You can stay updated on fee revisions by visiting the U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs to avoid application discrepancies or delays. Visa officers may also require evidence of financial ability to cover study and living costs, such as bank statements or scholarship letters, to demonstrate self-sufficiency during the stay in the United States.

Cost of living in the USA

Preparing financially entails more than just visa application fees. The cost of living in the USA can vary significantly based on location, lifestyle, and personal circumstances. Our tailored relocation services can help you move and relocate to any destination across the globe.

Numbeo data indicates that consumer prices, including rent, are typically higher in the U.S. than in South Africa. Expenses average roughly 150% more in cities like Los Angeles and New York compared to Johannesburg and Cape Town. It’s crucial to create a comprehensive budget that not only accounts for rent and essentials but also includes leisure, health, and incidental expenses.

The table below compares the typical cost of living between South Africa and the USA as of April 2024.

Even better news is that primary and secondary public schooling is funded through taxes, meaning you won’t pay tuition if you’re a resident of the school district. However, there may be additional expenses like transportation, school supplies, extracurricular activities, or fees for certain programmes or services.

Healthcare: covering the unexpected

Healthcare in the United States, while of a high standard, is also infamous for its high costs. International students are often required to purchase health insurance through their educational institution, which can be a hefty addition to your monthly budget. Researching adequate coverage that suits your needs and lifestyle is a necessary part of planning your future in the USA. The average budget for student healthcare can vary depending on location, the level of cover, individual health needs, and lifestyle. In the U.S., students may have access to healthcare through university-sponsored plans, parents’ insurance, or public options like Medicaid.

On average, students might budget anywhere from $100 to $300 per month for healthcare expenses, which may include premiums, copayments, deductibles, and out-of-pocket expenses for prescriptions or medical services not covered by insurance.

For South Africans setting their sights on the U.S., understanding not just visa application fees but also living costs, including education and healthcare expenses, is the foundation for a successful transition. Whether it’s budgeting for your first semester at an American university or strategising for your first year in the U.S. job market, how well you’re prepared will determine the ease with which you adapt to your new environment.

While it may seem intimidating, the personal and professional growth that the U.S. offers can be invaluable, offering you new opportunities and experiences, and broadening your perspectives on culture and life outside South Africa.

Need assistance with your international move to the USA? Contact Stuttaford Van Lines today for a free quote.