Believe it or not, but a growing number of South Africans are coming home after living abroad for a period of time. “Pack your bags a trek Ferreira,” still applies, but not to leave, rather to return to their country of origin. This is according to TEFL Academy’s 2026 Emigration report.

As such, this ‘reverse emigration’ trend is gaining real momentum. It appears South Africans are coming home, driven by the rising cost of living overseas and expanding remote-work opportunities. A trend that will only grow if the Middle East conflict continues to heap pressure on energy costs globally … WHY SOUTH AFRICANS ARE COMING HOME Furthermore, the TEFL Academy 2026 Emigration Report suggests the phenomenon is being driven by younger Gen Zs.

It estimates that of the one-million South Africans currently living abroad, primarily in the United Kingdom (UK), Australia and United States (US), roughly 30% (300 000) have expressed interest in returning home. Interestingly, this is an increase of 10% in just two years. Moreover, the primary factor for those South Africans coming home is simple – money and standard of living.

While the grass may look greener, South Africa is significantly more affordable to live in. Using the well-known ‘Big Mac Index’ as an illustration, a McDonald’s burger costs around $6 in the US or UK. However, for the same outlay (R99), you can effectively buy two of the same burgers in South Africa.

AFFORDABILITY AND HIGH STANDARD OF LIVING Madiba’s statue at the Union Buildings in Pretoria says you’re always welcome home. Image: File More and more South Africans are coming home because that affordability extends to housing, too. The report suggests South Africa generally offers more space for the price compared to property markets in the UK or US.

Likewise, South African private medical aid schemes are cheaper than their counterparts abroad. Even though the UK does offer public healthcare. Better still, many returning South Africans aren’t leaving their foreign salaries behind.

Nearly 40% of skilled, young professionals in developed markets now work remotely or in hybrid arrangements. This means the option to work and earn foreign currency while living abroad creates a powerful financial combination to beat rising global energy costs. OTHER REASONS SOUTH AFRICANS ARE COMING HOME However, not all returnees are coming back by choice.

Mel and Peet Viljoen look to have their hands full with ICE. And the outbreak of the US-Iran conflict in early 2026 forced many South Africans out of Middle Eastern countries where they were working. In March 2026, 6 400 South Africans in the region had registered with the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) Travel Smart system to return home safely.

But what do you think? Have you noticed more South Africans are coming home, after seeking greener pastures? Are you more or less inclined to leave South Africa nowadays? Be sure to share your thoughts in the comments section below …