The City of Cape Town now ranks among the “best cities” across the globe for remote workers, according to a new study.
The city says the study, conducted by global housing rental platform Nestpick, ranked Cape Town in 16th place on the list of 75 cities. The ranking is higher than locations such as New York, Athens and Barcelona, it notes.
The index score was based on a range of factors, including cost of living, infrastructure, leisure activities and overall liveability, according to the city.
“This once again proves that we are a top-class, affordable destination for digital nomads, and bolsters our call for a remote work visa, which was also a factor in Nestpick’s index,” says Alderman James Vos, mayoral committee member for economic opportunities and asset management.
Earlier this year, the city partnered with Cape Town Tourism to reveal its “Digital Nomad” initiative, aimed at not only boosting tourism but also positioning the Mother City as the ideal remote working destination.
Vos says digital nomads typically stay longer than 90 days in a destination.
He is making submissions to national government to enact provisions in the Immigration Act to allow for a remote working visa for a period longer than three months.
“The city’s enterprise and investment team has already incorporated this position into our strategic marketing approach known as the six pillars: visit, live, work, study, play and invest in Cape Town.”
According to Vos, the city also recently hosted a remote work webinar to hear from tourism and hospitality stakeholders about how and why to appeal to digital nomads.
“The remote work model isn’t just a trend, it’s here to stay. Let’s fully capitalise on what we as a city can offer these 21st century workers.
“By encouraging more of them to choose Cape Town, we will be boosting the economy, as they will spend more time and money in our city. They will also amplify the message among their friends, family and networks about Cape Town being a prime destination for work and play,” he concludes.
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