South Africa: VAT

Upwork collects and remits value-added tax (VAT) to the South African government as required by law. Providing a VAT ID is optional and doesn't exempt you from paying the tax. You can enter your VAT ID by visiting Settings and then selecting Tax Information.

We are required to assess a 15% tax on these services:

If you change locations in your account settings, your VAT will be adjusted accordingly. You can update your location by visiting Settings and then selecting Contact Info.

Please note that this information is for general guidance only, and for specific tax advice, consult your country's tax authority or a tax advisor. To learn more, visit the South Africa tax authority website.

Frequently asked questions

Who has to pay VAT?

VAT applies to services we provide to both freelancers and clients if they reside, have a permanent address, or are established in South Africa.

Why are you collecting VAT?

We’re required to comply with the tax laws of the countries where we operate to continue to do business in those countries. South Africa requires that we collect VAT on Upwork services and remit the tax to the government.

Do I have to provide a VAT ID to Upwork?

No, you are not required to provide us with your VAT ID. South Africa does not require us to have it.  However, if you choose to provide your VAT ID, we will display it on your invoices and Transaction History. You can enter your VAT ID by visiting Settings and then selecting  Tax Information.

Do you still collect VAT if I provide Upwork with a valid VAT ID?

Yes, we will still collect VAT. South Africa does not exempt you from the tax if you provide your VAT ID.

What if I’m only residing in this country temporarily?

We are still required to collect VAT even if you are only residing in a country temporarily. If you move to another country, you can update your information in  Settings by selecting  Contact Info . We will automatically adjust your VAT to correspond with the rates in your new country of residence or stop collecting if there is no VAT, or a similar tax, in your new country.