The South African Institute of Canada

Helping South Africans make Canada Home

Building connections, offering guidance, and creating a community for a brighter future.

A Special Thank You To All Our Founding Members and Donors! Without you None of this would be possible!
A Special Thank You To All Our Founding Members and Donors! Without you None of this would be possible!

Community Building

Join a thriving network of South African expats and find your people in Canada.

Guidance & Support

From biltong to banking, get the advice and resources you need to settle in Canada.

Cultural Connection

Celebrate your South African heritage while making Canada feel like home.

About SAIC

What is SAIC?

Bridging the Gap Between South African Roots and Canadian Dreams.

The South African Institute of Canada (SAIC) is more than just an organization—it’s a community built to help South Africans make a fresh start in Canada. Whether you’re still finding your feet or already settled, SAIC is here to make the journey easier.

Rooted in resilience, connection, and mutual support, we go beyond being just a resource—this is where Saffas come together to build friendships, share knowledge, and thrive in a new country.

Whether you’re looking for guidance, hoping to connect with fellow Saffas, or just want to braai with people who get your humor, SAIC is here because we’re stronger together.

Join us as we celebrate where we come from, embrace where we are, and build towards the future. Welcome to SAIC—where South African roots meet Canadian dreams.

Ways to Get Involved

Be Part of Something Bigger

At SAIC, community isn’t just a word—it’s the heartbeat of everything we do. Whether you’re keen to make a difference, meet lekker people, or stay connected to your roots, there’s a place for you here. Together, we can build a stronger, more connected South African-Canadian community.

Become a Founding Member

Not because you’re after rewards. Just because you’re awesome—and because building something great for future Saffas in Canada starts with people like you. Whether you’ve been here for years or just landed, your support helps keep this community strong.

Volunteer with Us

Your time, skills, and passion can make a real impact! Help organize events, mentor newcomers, or lend a hand where it’s needed. We all know that a Saffa never stands back when there’s work to be done!

Donate and Support

Help keep the gees alive! Your support makes events, programs, and resources possible for South Africans across Canada. Every bit helps—so go on, make a difference today!

Our Vision

A Thriving South African-Canadian Community

We’re here to build more than just a network—we’re creating a community where South Africans can feel connected, supported, and understood. A place where the gees is strong, the advice is real, and the connections go beyond just a WhatsApp group.

Our vision is simple: every South African in Canada should feel supported, connected, and empowered to thrive. We honor our roots while embracing new opportunities, weaving our unique culture into the rich fabric of Canadian life.

Our Mission

Helping South African Expats Make Canada Home

Starting fresh in a new country isn’t always easy, but you don’t have to do it alone. Our mission is to help South Africans navigate the journey, build real connections, and find the support they need—whether that’s advice, a helping hand, or just a familiar accent at a braai.

Through community, resources, and a whole lot of lekker spirit, the South African Institute of Canada creates opportunities for Saffas to grow, connect, and thrive. We believe in resilience, togetherness, and paying it forward—because settling in Canada isn’t about looking back, it’s about moving forward together.

Resources for South African Expats

Your Guide to Starting Fresh in Canada

Making a move to a new country is one heck of a journey, but you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. At SAIC, we’ve put together resources to help you settle in, find your people, and embrace life in Canada—all while keeping that lekker South African spirit alive. Whether you need practical tips, community connections, or just a way to celebrate your roots, we’re here to help.

  • Step-by-step guidance on housing, employment, healthcare, and more—so you don’t have to learn things the hard way.

  • Practical tips to help you navigate Canadian life with confidence (yes, even how to survive your first winter!).

  • Find your Saffa crew through forums, mentorship programs, and networking groups.

  • Discover local events, meetups, and braais—because everything’s better with good company.

  • Celebrate South African traditions while making the most of your new adventure in Canada.

  • Get the scoop on festivals, food, and heritage activities—because let’s be honest, nothing beats a taste of the good stuff.

  • Resources for finding jobs, networking, and upgrading qualifications—because we know starting over isn’t always easy.

  • Tips for parents navigating schools and education systems—helping your kids adjust and thrive.

Recent Resources

Stay Informed and Connected

A hunter aiming a rifle in the bush, demonstrating legal and responsible firearm use in Canada.

How to Apply for Your Gun Licence in Canada: A Simple Guide

TL;DRNeed a gun licence in Canada as a South African expat? It’s actually way simpler than you think. Here’s the quick version: 1) Check eligibility, 2)...

A sample South African Police Clearance Certificate with a Canadian visa stamp, illustrating the requirements for Canadian immigration applications.

Do I Need to Get a New Police Clearance Certificate for My Canadian Immigration?

When it comes to Canadian immigration, one of the most confusing topics for South African expats is whether or not you need a new South African Police C...

A South African police officer processing paperwork for a police clearance certificate application, relevant for South Africans applying from Canada.

How to Get a South African Police Clearance Certificate from Canada

The Quick & Easy Version 🥩🍷 So, you’re a South African expat in Canada and you need to get a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) from SA? No ...

Canada Child Benefit (CCB) – Financial Support for Parents in Canada

If you’ve just arrived in Canada and have kids, listen up, this one’s important. The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a tax-free monthly payment from the C...

To Our Founding Members

Thank You for Bringing Our Vision to Life

The South African Institute of Canada exists because of you—our founding members. Because of you, South Africans in Canada have a place to turn to when they need it most.

We are deeply grateful for your commitment to making SAIC a reality. Because of you, South African expats in Canada can find connection, support, and a sense of belonging—no matter how far they’ve come. Ons is sterker saam!

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Team Herholdt

No matter the weather always bring your own sunshine

Brett Adamson

“As a South African in Canada, I know how challenging a fresh start can be. That’s why I’m a proud founding member of SAIC—I love their mission of helping South Africans.”

Dries Deetlefs

“Moving to Canada as a South African has its challenges, but a strong community makes all the difference. I’m a proud founding member to help others find support.”

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Michael Ping

“Time is free, but it’s priceless. You can’t own it, but you can use it. You can’t keep it, but you can spend it. Once you’ve lost it you can never get it back.”

Interested in volunteering?

Be the Heart of Our Community

Volunteers are the lifeblood of the South African Institute of Canada. Your time, energy, and skills help us create a welcoming, supportive space for South African expats building their lives in Canada. Whether it’s organizing events, mentoring newcomers, or sharing your expertise, your contributions make a real difference.