Eswatini
Profiled in Mbabane · Southern Africa
Africa's last absolute monarchy, a small highland kingdom of forested escarpments and craft workshops, wedged between South Africa and Mozambique.
Cost of living
What a month costs
The lilangeni is pegged one-to-one to the South African rand, and most goods come across that border, so prices track South Africa closely.
The scores
How it rates for a moving family
See and do
Top 10 in Mbabane
- Mantenga FallsBroad falls in the Ezulwini valley below the cultural village.
- Sibebe RockEnormous granite dome, second only to Uluru in bulk.
- Ngwenya GlassRecycled glass studio and one of the country's best-known workshops.
- LobambaRoyal and legislative capital, home to parliament and the national museum.
- Swazi CandlesCraft centre in Malkerns producing hand-poured wax art.
- House on FireSculptural arts venue hosting the Bushfire festival.
- Ngwenya MineOne of the world's oldest known mines, worked for haematite.
- Mlilwane Wildlife SanctuaryThe country's first protected area, walkable and close to Mbabane.
Where to go
Weekend escapes
- Hlane Royal National ParkLowveld reserve with rhino, elephant and lion.
- Malolotja Nature ReserveHigh grassland, waterfalls and a canopy walkway.
- Mantenga Cultural VillageReconstructed homestead with sibhaca dancing.
- Ezulwini ValleyCraft markets and hot springs between the two capitals.
- Mkhaya Game ReservePrivate reserve known for black rhino tracking.
Residency
Residence follows work or investment permits, and the kingdom does not run an investor programme. Eswatini is a Southern African Customs Union member, and land tenure is split between titled and Swazi Nation land.
Tax
Personal rates are progressive to 33% and the corporate rate is 27.5%, with 15% VAT. There is no capital gains tax on individuals, and no wealth or inheritance tax.
Curious what you would actually pay? See the Eswatini tax profile: income, corporate, VAT and exit rules →
Nearby
More of Southern Africa
Frequently asked
How much does it cost to live in Eswatini?
About $900 a month for one person and $2,000 for a family. A one-bedroom flat rents for around $450, and a casual meal costs about $7. The lilangeni is pegged one-to-one to the South African rand, and most goods come across that border, so prices track South Africa closely.
Is Eswatini safe, and what is healthcare like?
In our index safety scores 6 out of 10 and healthcare 5 out of 10, where 10 is best.
What language and currency are used in Eswatini?
siSwati and English. The currency is Lilangeni (SZL).
What is the capital of Eswatini?
Mbabane.
How can a foreigner get residency in Eswatini?
Residence follows work or investment permits, and the kingdom does not run an investor programme. Eswatini is a Southern African Customs Union member, and land tenure is split between titled and Swazi Nation land.
What taxes does Eswatini charge?
Personal rates are progressive to 33% and the corporate rate is 27.5%, with 15% VAT. There is no capital gains tax on individuals, and no wealth or inheritance tax.