Verified Facts
To move to Saint Helena, you will need to carefully consider the island's unique requirements and challenges, including obtaining the necessary visa, finding suitable accommodations, and adapting to the local culture and way of life.
Why People Move to Saint Helena
Saint Helena is a remote island territory in the South Atlantic Ocean that offers a unique and tranquil way of life, attracting expats who are looking for a peaceful and serene environment. The island's stunning natural beauty, rich history, and friendly community make it an attractive destination for those seeking a slower pace of life. The expat demographic in Saint Helena is relatively small, with most expats being British citizens or individuals with ties to the UK, although there are also some international residents from other countries. The quality of life on the island is generally high, with a strong sense of community and a relatively low cost of living.
One of the main reasons people move to Saint Helena is to escape the stresses of modern city life and connect with nature. The island offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and diving, as well as a unique opportunity to experience a traditional island way of life. The local culture is also an attraction, with a rich history and a strong sense of community. However, it's worth noting that the island's remote location and limited amenities can also be a challenge for some expats.
The lifestyle on Saint Helena is generally relaxed and casual, with a strong emphasis on community and outdoor activities. The island has a relatively low cost of living, although the cost of some goods and services can be higher due to the island's remote location. Overall, Saint Helena offers a unique and attractive lifestyle for expats who are looking for a peaceful and serene environment, a strong sense of community, and a chance to connect with nature.
Visa & Residency Options
| Visa Type | Duration | Requirements | Cost (USD) | Path to PR? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist | Up to 183 days | Valid passport, proof of onward travel, sufficient funds | 0 | No |
| Work Visa | Up to 3 years | Job offer, qualifications, experience, police certificate | 200-500 | Yes |
| Business/Investor | Up to 3 years | Business plan, investment, qualifications, experience | 500-1,000 | Yes |
| Retirement | Up to 5 years | Proof of pension, sufficient funds, health insurance | 500-1,000 | No |
| Student | Up to 1 year | Acceptance letter, proof of funds, health insurance | 100-300 | No |
| Digital Nomad | Up to 1 year | Proof of income, health insurance, qualifications | 200-500 | No |
Relocation Checklist
- Research the island and its culture to determine if it's the right fit for you.
- Choose the correct visa type and apply in advance, as the process can take several months.
- Find suitable accommodations, either by renting or buying a property.
- Arrange for transportation to the island, either by flying to Ascension Island and then taking the Royal Mail Ship St Helena or by taking a cargo ship.
- Register with the local authorities and obtain any necessary permits or licenses.
- Open a local bank account and arrange for money transfers.
- Transfer your belongings to the island, either by shipping or by bringing them with you.
- Find a job or start a business, if applicable.
- Join local expat groups and attend community events to meet new people.
- Be prepared for the challenges of island life, including limited amenities and a remote location.
- Consider purchasing a car or other vehicle, as public transportation is limited.
- Learn about the local healthcare system and arrange for health insurance, if necessary.
Expat Communities
- The majority of expats live in Jamestown, the capital and largest town on the island.
- There are several online groups and forums for expats in Saint Helena, including Facebook groups and online forums.
- The Saint Helena Expat Association is a social network for expats to connect and share information.
- The island has a range of social clubs and organizations, including sports clubs, cultural groups, and community organizations.
- Expats can also attend local events and meetups, such as the annual Saint Helena Festival, to meet new people and connect with the community.
Banking & Finances
- To open a bank account in Saint Helena, you will typically need to provide proof of identity, proof of address, and proof of income.
- Money transfers can be arranged through local banks or international money transfer services.
- The local currency is the Saint Helena Pound (SHP), which is pegged to the British Pound (GBP).
- Credit cards and debit cards are widely accepted, although some businesses may not accept international cards.
- It's a good idea to have a local bank account and a credit or debit card to access cash and make purchases.
Challenges & Honest Advice
- Culture shock can be a challenge for some expats, particularly those who are used to a faster-paced and more urban lifestyle.
- The island's bureaucracy can be slow and frustrating, particularly when dealing with official paperwork and permits.
- Language barriers are not typically a problem, as English is the official language and widely spoken.
- The remote location of the island can make it difficult to access certain goods and services, particularly if you are used to a wider range of amenities.
- Homesickness can be a challenge for some expats, particularly those who are far from family and friends.
- It's essential to be flexible and patient when dealing with the challenges of island life, and to be prepared for the unexpected.