Silvana
@Silvana_Arocha
Colombian expat in South Africa
Forum posts
84
Contacts
24
About me
Colombian
Lives in Johannesburg
Speaks Spanish-English
Registration: 15 December 2010
New members of the South Africa forum, introduce yourself here 聳 2017 by Julien
Hi all, Newbie on the South Africa forum? Don聮t know how to start? This thread is for you ;) We invite you to introduce yourself on this topic, to share with us your expat story if you are already living in the country, or to tell us more ...
Join the group Latinos en SA on Facebook Read More
Recruitment/Hr consultancy/Job offering sites for south africa by ODAN
Hi All, I am a Graphic Designer by Profession. Living and working in Dubai. Is it possible getting job while you are not in south Africa? I heard it takes long for work permit? if so then employer maybe can hire someone else... DO anyone suggest ...
Sorry Nicolas, I can't help you with that. I suggest you check online gumtree.co.za they have offerings there or the rental web sites. that's as much as I can do. Good luck Read More
Life Parner Visa - Shared financial responsibility proof
Alice your best bet is, if your fiancee is renting the place where he stays, to include you in the Lease agreement with the Agency, that is all the proof they need. Read More
Recruitment/Hr consultancy/Job offering sites for south africa by ODAN
Hi All, I am a Graphic Designer by Profession. Living and working in Dubai. Is it possible getting job while you are not in south Africa? I heard it takes long for work permit? if so then employer maybe can hire someone else... DO anyone suggest ...
Hi there, I was recruited thru LinkedIn a few years ago, my employer paid for everything, that is work permit, tickets and rellocation. They did went thru a local search before going overseas, with the BBEEE and the new inmigration regulation it is ... Read More
Where are the Argentinians meeting for the match on Saturday? by Jbrunero
I been struggling to find any World Cup spirit in Joburg...
Si claro!! El partido es hasta las 8, si ganamos vamos de largo!! Y Hard Rock tiene m煤sica en vivo esta noche! as铆 que va a estar buen铆simo Read More
Where are the Argentinians meeting for the match on Saturday? by Jbrunero
I been struggling to find any World Cup spirit in Joburg...
If you want to join a group of loud Colombians tonight...you are welcome to come to Hard Rock Cafe in Sandton at 5pm! Btw, you should try the Asociacion Argentina they do awesome get togethers! let me know if you are interested to come today :) ... Read More
living in Durban without car, possible??
In my opinion, South Africa is not a country you can live in without a car, public transport is not safe and barely there. Unless you work/live in walking distance (less than 1Km) it's alright, other than that you need a car for everything. Read More
Brazilian commnunity in Johannesburg
Rui, check on Facebook, we have a Latinos in South Africa group, you might be able to contact a lot of them there... Read More
New immigration laws... by Silvana_Arocha
Think is important to share this info New Immigration Laws for South Africa - 2014 26 January 2014 | Presentation on the Amendments to the Immigration Act. The Introduction of New Immigration Laws and Regulations for South Africa. What does this ...
it's not just Home Affairs in South Africa... :D :lol: Read More
New immigration laws... by Silvana_Arocha
Think is important to share this info New Immigration Laws for South Africa - 2014 26 January 2014 | Presentation on the Amendments to the Immigration Act. The Introduction of New Immigration Laws and Regulations for South Africa. What does this ...
Not really, they are mixing as their convenience. A friend went to handle the documents to extend his visa and he was told that unfortunately with the new immigration act he had to go back to Brasil until it was granted... I think it is dependandt ... Read More
Getting married in South Africa by Armand
Hi all, We invite all the ones who got married in South Africa or who are about to get married in South Africa to participate in this thread :) What are the formalities to get married in South Africa? Is it the same for a couple of foreigners ...
Hi Chikabi, I am Colombian :) The officer was an authorized minister, he did the ceremony for us and filled all the documents with Home Affairs. If you are getting married here in South Africa check all the documents you need beforehand with the ... Read More
New immigration laws... by Silvana_Arocha
Think is important to share this info New Immigration Laws for South Africa - 2014 26 January 2014 | Presentation on the Amendments to the Immigration Act. The Introduction of New Immigration Laws and Regulations for South Africa. What does this ...
more here... http://voices.news24.com/jesse-green/2014/02/immigration-law-changes-cause-havoc-life-partners/ Read More
Getting married in South Africa by Armand
Hi all, We invite all the ones who got married in South Africa or who are about to get married in South Africa to participate in this thread :) What are the formalities to get married in South Africa? Is it the same for a couple of foreigners ...
Go to a police station, it should be fairly easy to have the Police officer signed/stamp. He should just type the letter and take it to the closest to him. Read More
New immigration laws... by Silvana_Arocha
Think is important to share this info New Immigration Laws for South Africa - 2014 26 January 2014 | Presentation on the Amendments to the Immigration Act. The Introduction of New Immigration Laws and Regulations for South Africa. What does this ...
For what was told back in January, they are launching the New Gazette at the end of February. They had this letter at the Home Affairs Office in Rosebank...I got no clue if it's happening, just thought it was good to post it here to let everyone ... Read More
Getting married in South Africa by Armand
Hi all, We invite all the ones who got married in South Africa or who are about to get married in South Africa to participate in this thread :) What are the formalities to get married in South Africa? Is it the same for a couple of foreigners ...
that's exactly what I did..have it in your country language and a copy in English... basically...what you see below... I, XXXX residing at XXXX do solemnly and sincerely declare that the information given here is true. I am a Single and have never ... Read More
New immigration laws...
Think is important to share this info New Immigration Laws for South Africa - 2014 26 January 2014 | Presentation on the Amendments to the Immigration Act. The Introduction of New Immigration Laws and Regulations for South Africa. What does this ... Read More
Looking for a job in Johannesburg
Hi Simone, I've got a few friends that speak English, Spanish, Dutch...and they are looking for opportunities, what type of offers you have? Let me know and I will share with them. Regards, Silvana Read More
Getting married in South Africa by Armand
Hi all, We invite all the ones who got married in South Africa or who are about to get married in South Africa to participate in this thread :) What are the formalities to get married in South Africa? Is it the same for a couple of foreigners ...
Hello, I got married in 2012 and it was a pre-requisite to have that letter. It had to come from my country or stamped by the Embassy. I wrote the letter and went to the Consulate here in South Africa they stamped and all good... hope that helps Read More
Top hiring sectors in Johannesburg
Hi Julien, I was head hunted to South Africa two years ago. I am in the Engineering industry (rail). And moving to a different company in the next week, also in the engineering sector. I believe if you have the right set of skills they are ... Read More
Applying for a life partner visa while on a tourist permit? by elephants
Hello, I have been reading through the South African Department of Home Affairs website along with any material I can find regarding SA life partner visas on the web and I'm finding that a lot of the information is more confusing than anything else ...
Elephants, go to the nearest Embassy, I obtain my new police clearance from the Colombian one fairly easy, so I believe the US one would be even easier. Colombia do have an online service, where you can just download it, this was implemented this ... Read More
Meet new people early 30s -35s by MissSaki
Hi, We're a couple that just arrived to Cape Town, leaving behind a very active social life in Spain. We're hoping to restablish our social life here and meet as many new and interesting people as possible. I'm 28 and my husband is 33, so we're ...
Let me know when you are in Jburg! :D Read More
"Proof of relationship" for a temporary residents permit by istonyjames
My long term partner whom I intend on having a civil partnership with in the next few years have decided to re-locate to South Africa. Whilst my self and my family were permanent residents ( In SA. 1970-78). I am by all intent purposes British. ...
Hi, your best approach is to gather "evidence" from friends and family that knows both of you for at least 2 years, in SA they are very paranoid about that proof of commitment, photos, letters, even proof of address, like the mail coming on same ... Read More
tourist visa for parents
:D no, if they are bringing children along...LOL Read More
tourist visa for parents
I brought my parents last year for my wedding, they basically need: 飩� Form BI-84. 飩� Marriage certificate if married. 飩� Birth certificate for children. 飩� Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate. 飩� Proof of funds i.e. ... Read More
looking for a furnished room to rent for 6 months in Pretoria
Try property24.co.za or privateproperty.co.za or gumtree.co.za Read More
Looking for an offficial translator spanish -portuguese by caro14
Hi I urgently need this? Does anyone knows someone who work with this trasnlation? Thanks
Caro, yo conecte a una senora que me ayudo con Portugues-Ingles, ellos tienen todo tipo de traducciones. Te envio la info por Inbox. Read More
Questions about shifting to Jo-burg by _castor
Hi, everyone. I've got a contract and will spend at SA next few years of my life. Can anyone - or all together answer few questions ? Thanks ! Let's start 1. What is the taxation scheme ? Should I pay any additional taxes after getting my ...
No problem! It's a pleasure Read More
Questions about shifting to Jo-burg by _castor
Hi, everyone. I've got a contract and will spend at SA next few years of my life. Can anyone - or all together answer few questions ? Thanks ! Let's start 1. What is the taxation scheme ? Should I pay any additional taxes after getting my ...
It's part of the package that we use at home, it includes the alarms and all, it's a full year subscription and you have 4 rides/month or you can add to the initial package. Check ADT's website all the info is there, that's the one we use, but most ... Read More
Questions about shifting to Jo-burg by _castor
Hi, everyone. I've got a contract and will spend at SA next few years of my life. Can anyone - or all together answer few questions ? Thanks ! Let's start 1. What is the taxation scheme ? Should I pay any additional taxes after getting my ...
Lebanon, I live and work in Woodmead, I walk my dogs every night, I live in a free standing house, not an enclosed complex, haven't had any close encounter in 2 years I've been here. But my husband did took the proper measures - electric fencing, ... Read More
Questions about shifting to Jo-burg by _castor
Hi, everyone. I've got a contract and will spend at SA next few years of my life. Can anyone - or all together answer few questions ? Thanks ! Let's start 1. What is the taxation scheme ? Should I pay any additional taxes after getting my ...
I am from Colombia which was also ranked in between the top 5...and now I am in South Africa...how unbiased is to tell you that what castor is saying is absolutely true. If you are planning to move base only on that, rather look for another ... Read More
Any nice hotels to stay in while in Joburg for the weekend?
Right next to the Convention Center- loads of hotels, shopping at walking distance... Read More
Questions about shifting to Jo-burg by _castor
Hi, everyone. I've got a contract and will spend at SA next few years of my life. Can anyone - or all together answer few questions ? Thanks ! Let's start 1. What is the taxation scheme ? Should I pay any additional taxes after getting my ...
Welcome! Hope you guys get settled properly! Let me know when you want to come around for a drink or two! Read More
International shipping or movers PLEASE HELP
I used The MI Group very professional service! Read More
Cars
Brian, My suggestion buy a second hand car on gumtree, leasing here is extremely expensive and is not worth all the paperwork, I tried and gave up! What type of car are you looking for? My Dutch friends are going back to Holland and they might be ... Read More
driving licence
International license you can only obtain from your country of origin I believe...not sure:( Read More
driving licence
You'll need a valid international driver's license...check this web site, they will tell you everything you need to know... http://www.aa.co.za/technical-services/legal/legal-questions/foreign-drivers-licenses.html Read More
Paling in't groen
Great!! Hope you'll find it! I am still strugling to find Plantains! Read More
Paling in't groen
Hi Marleen, Have you tried the Food Lovers Market? I've seen Eel sometimes there, they have a nice sea food selection. Or that little market next to the Windmill in Hartbeespoort? I know the feeling when it comes to food you really miss! Hope ... Read More
application for the Spousal permit (Bi-1738) by bugzrock
Hi I am a SA citizen and my foreign wife and I, got married and registered by a marriage officer 4 weeks ago. I have submitted the docs at DHA for capturing but its still appearing "single" on the website. Her Tourist Visa is due to expire in July ...
I am with Concordia, I also married a SA citizen, the officer did everything for us, within a week we checked and his status was already changed from Single to Married. You should go to HA and chech yourself. Read More
Applying for a life partner visa while on a tourist permit? by elephants
Hello, I have been reading through the South African Department of Home Affairs website along with any material I can find regarding SA life partner visas on the web and I'm finding that a lot of the information is more confusing than anything else ...
I thought LP visa was only granted after 2 years of cohabitation and joint financial obligations within the country, or at least that you can 'proof' that you've been together for long enough. I've know a few friends that tried the fast route with ... Read More
Life in joburg
1) Check privateproperty.co.za you'll find loads of those. 2) Gumtree.co.za might be your choice, renting might be too much, and second hand cars you'll find in fair condition 3) Depends on the area you are going to be Virgin Active have branches ... Read More
Getting married in South Africa by Armand
Hi all, We invite all the ones who got married in South Africa or who are about to get married in South Africa to participate in this thread :) What are the formalities to get married in South Africa? Is it the same for a couple of foreigners ...
Hey Bigpickle88, I don't know about that, but maybe just write it down and have it certified by a Notary/Judge or whatever is the name. If you do it here in SA you might need to go to an Embassy/Consulate. Will Inbox the details :) Enjoy and ... Read More
Getting married in South Africa by Armand
Hi all, We invite all the ones who got married in South Africa or who are about to get married in South Africa to participate in this thread :) What are the formalities to get married in South Africa? Is it the same for a couple of foreigners ...
Hi bigpickle88, The document is a Certificate of Non Impediment, which is basically what you said before, a piece of paper that certifies there is no legal impediment or other lawful cause to prevent you from getting married. You may need to have ... Read More
Getting married in South Africa by Armand
Hi all, We invite all the ones who got married in South Africa or who are about to get married in South Africa to participate in this thread :) What are the formalities to get married in South Africa? Is it the same for a couple of foreigners ...
Hi Evangelista, I got married in Garden World, but the minister was not from the place, but someone we contacted...I can send you his details if you want? Let me know Silvana Read More
Getting married in South Africa by Armand
Hi all, We invite all the ones who got married in South Africa or who are about to get married in South Africa to participate in this thread :) What are the formalities to get married in South Africa? Is it the same for a couple of foreigners ...
I am foreigner, husband is South African, got married in August 2012, the officer did everything for us, marriage certificate and registry he did the whole Home Affairs things and delivered the documents in less than a month. He actually apologize ... Read More
Opening a Bank Account by Chris.Cray
Hi, I have recently emigrated to Jo'Burg on a Relative Permit, which allows me to work etc for 2 years. Unfortunately none of the banks appear too helpful in setting up an account for me so that I can sort out rent and a cell contract - any advice ...
Chris, I believe there are only 2 banks here in SA that would accept an expat- FNB which I personally use and Standard Bank which I know friends that use them. For both you need to have a permanent contract with a SA based company and have all ... Read More
English to Portuguese tranlator URGENT!!!!
I posted it there long ago, no one look at it :( Read More
English to Portuguese tranlator URGENT!!!!
Hello everyone, I need someone that helps me with a 50 page trasnlation from English to Portuguese in 4 days by next week!! Willing to pay up to R50 per 100 word. Contact me if you can do it thanks Silvana Read More
Non-official translators - English/Portuguese
Hello! Looking for someone that can do quick translations from English to Portuguese, mostly technical documents. Please contact me with rates and availability Thanks Silvana Read More
Questions about shifting to Jo-burg by _castor
Hi, everyone. I've got a contract and will spend at SA next few years of my life. Can anyone - or all together answer few questions ? Thanks ! Let's start 1. What is the taxation scheme ? Should I pay any additional taxes after getting my ...
Let us know when you are around, maybe we can show you the area and you can decide! Read More
Questions about shifting to Jo-burg by _castor
Hi, everyone. I've got a contract and will spend at SA next few years of my life. Can anyone - or all together answer few questions ? Thanks ! Let's start 1. What is the taxation scheme ? Should I pay any additional taxes after getting my ...
Woodmead, Buccleuch, Wendywood- around the area you can find very nice spacious houses, most of them are realatively 'old' constructtions, at least 7-10 years, with good renovations (kitchens, bathrooms, etc), this is all Sandton area, we have a ... Read More
Residency? South African ID? by Silvana_Arocha
I am bit confused as in what to do next, here is my situation: 1. I am Colombian, with an exceptional skills work permit valid for 5 years, end date 2017. 2. Married in August 2012 to a South African. Now, I would like to know when I am suppose ...
Yes, that's exactly what they have told me, don't need to worry until 2017! At least things do work with the permits the proper way, that's when you do everything the right way. In the past week I've heard very sad stories, so I'm very glad things ... Read More
Questions about shifting to Jo-burg by _castor
Hi, everyone. I've got a contract and will spend at SA next few years of my life. Can anyone - or all together answer few questions ? Thanks ! Let's start 1. What is the taxation scheme ? Should I pay any additional taxes after getting my ...
Bedforview got some areas not that nice, make sure you know beforehand. Or Tambo is relatively easy access from every major highway, so try to keep the options open as in house location, you can always stay in an apartment for at least 2-3 months ... Read More
Looking for the latin community in Jburg/Sandton
Hi Rosie! So nice to contact someone finally! Gansbaai is like far south west right? What you doing there? I'll PM you now... Read More
Residency? South African ID? by Silvana_Arocha
I am bit confused as in what to do next, here is my situation: 1. I am Colombian, with an exceptional skills work permit valid for 5 years, end date 2017. 2. Married in August 2012 to a South African. Now, I would like to know when I am suppose ...
As I said before I am in no rush, and I am doing exactly that... Thanks Read More
Residency? South African ID? by Silvana_Arocha
I am bit confused as in what to do next, here is my situation: 1. I am Colombian, with an exceptional skills work permit valid for 5 years, end date 2017. 2. Married in August 2012 to a South African. Now, I would like to know when I am suppose ...
I've got no clue, yes I am positive that's what the work permit says, initially it was a Quota Work Permit and when I applied for the extension they requested more documentation and gave me the Exceptional Skills valid for 5 years. I don't really ... Read More
Residency? South African ID? by Silvana_Arocha
I am bit confused as in what to do next, here is my situation: 1. I am Colombian, with an exceptional skills work permit valid for 5 years, end date 2017. 2. Married in August 2012 to a South African. Now, I would like to know when I am suppose ...
I am in no hurry to leave SA, so far the company is very happy with my job (that's why they went to the trouble of bringing me in) and I believe my new husband is more that excited to have me around, so I don't think I'll be going anywhere for ... Read More
Residency? South African ID? by Silvana_Arocha
I am bit confused as in what to do next, here is my situation: 1. I am Colombian, with an exceptional skills work permit valid for 5 years, end date 2017. 2. Married in August 2012 to a South African. Now, I would like to know when I am suppose ...
:D will check that, so far they've said that I still need to wait at least 2 years to apply for a permanent residency... Read More
Residency? South African ID? by Silvana_Arocha
I am bit confused as in what to do next, here is my situation: 1. I am Colombian, with an exceptional skills work permit valid for 5 years, end date 2017. 2. Married in August 2012 to a South African. Now, I would like to know when I am suppose ...
Thanks Reillusioned! Confusion gone! Paperwork wont be a problem, I am pretty sure the company is going to cover that for me when time comes. Thanks again! Read More
Looking for the latin community in Jburg/Sandton
Is there any one from the other side of the Ocean here? I miss speaking Spanish and having a good laugh with the culture adaptation. Let me know if there's anyone interested in getting together? Cheers! S Read More
Residency? South African ID?
I am bit confused as in what to do next, here is my situation: 1. I am Colombian, with an exceptional skills work permit valid for 5 years, end date 2017. 2. Married in August 2012 to a South African. Now, I would like to know when I am suppose ... Read More
Decent salary to live in Johannesburg by lebuman
Hello, I received an offer from a company based in Johannesburg of 30000 rand, I assure inhabited, I want to know if it is a decent salary to live there thanks
Depends on your skills, also ask if you've got any other benefits such medical aid, housing, transportation, etc. And if that is all inclusive or after taxes are applied. Read More
Hello everyone... looking for latinos in Joburg by caro14
Hello I am from Venezuela, I am here because work since January... Its difficult to find people who speak spanish...Anyone jeje??
@ Aurelie...it is indeed an Anglophone forum, but it is also an Expat forun where you have a mix of everything, you cannot blame some for using a few sentences in a different language, just saying...I'll keep it in English. @Tamax, I have plans ... Read More
LPP and work endorsment - apply in UK or within South Africa
Do everything in the UK first, here in South Africa everything takes longer, and if you need any special document you'll have it with you there. Trust me! I got my work permit thru the SA Embassy in Venezuela (took only 3 days), here to renew it ... Read More
Hello everyone... looking for latinos in Joburg by caro14
Hello I am from Venezuela, I am here because work since January... Its difficult to find people who speak spanish...Anyone jeje??
He did Christine, I replied in Spanish...the purpose of this thread is actually to look up for people that speaks Spanish in South Africa. I don't see the problem, or is it that you need to understand everything that is happening? Read More
Hello everyone... looking for latinos in Joburg by caro14
Hello I am from Venezuela, I am here because work since January... Its difficult to find people who speak spanish...Anyone jeje??
Tamax! Cuando quieras! Me hace falta hablar mi lengua madre:) Read More
Hello everyone... looking for latinos in Joburg by caro14
Hello I am from Venezuela, I am here because work since January... Its difficult to find people who speak spanish...Anyone jeje??
Is there any more latinos around? I would also like to contact and get together for some Spanish sessions!!! Food and drinks? I'm Colombian, married to South African, working and living in Jburg. Read More
August Wedding- looking for venue!
Sooo....the fairytale worked for me and it continues, Colombian met South African and they are getting married... I have no clue about wedding planning in SA, so need all available help, anyone with ideas? We have set the date for 08-08 so it's ... Read More
Housing in South Africa
Julien, You should start by saying that Expats in SA to buy a house need to have cash, besides some agents are asking for documents like at least a 2 year approved visa, proof of address at least from 6 months ago, etc, etc...I thought it was ... Read More
Buying a car...
I've been trying to get a loan to buy a car in SA but things seems to be a bit more tricky and complicated than any other place in the world. I do have a work permit, a permanent contract, international drivers license and everything that's ... Read More
Recommended place for a single colombian by Silvana_Arocha
I am planning on going to Joburg in January staying for 3 months...I will be living in Sandton, any recommended place for a single colombian?
Thanks Rhona, I already got to RSA, been here since my bday last week....working working! I am staying in Joburg now, and moving to Sandton over the weekeend. Are there any plans for the weekend besides going to Cirque Du Soleil? I got tickets ... Read More
Recommended place for a single colombian
I am planning on going to Joburg in January staying for 3 months...I will be living in Sandton, any recommended place for a single colombian? Read More