12/07/2026
A question I get almost every week:
"I left South Africa three years ago. I haven't thought about SARS since. Am I in trouble?"
Usually the honest answer is: less trouble than you fear, but more than nothing — and it doesn't get better on its own.
Here's what catches people out. Leaving the country isn't the same as ceasing your South African tax residency. That has to be declared. If it never was, SARS may still regard you as a resident, and returns may still be running up behind you while you get on with your life in Perth or Dubai or London.
I'm a Professional Accountant (SA) and registered SARS Tax Practitioner with 18 years' experience, and a good part of my work is exactly this — quietly sorting out South Africans abroad who left without closing the door behind them.
If that's you, message me. Tell me when you left and whether you've filed since. I'll tell you straight what you're looking at. No forms, no cost to ask.
Maritza Eybers PA(SA) | In Balance Accounting
SAIPA 21134 | SARS Tax Practitioner PR0005025
