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What is the dividend withholding rate between Nigeria and South Africa?

Under the Nigeria-South Africa tax treaty, the withholding rate on dividends is 10% for portfolio investors (general rate). A reduced rate of 7.5% applies when the beneficial owner is a company holding a qualifying ownership stake (typically 10% or more of voting stock). Note that the reduced rate requires the recipient to file the appropriate treaty benefit claim form before payment. This 10% rate compares to a median of 15% across Nigeria's 3 active treaty partners, and 15% across South Africa's 37 active partners.

Network Comparison

Nigeria

Rank 1 of 3 active treaties (lowest rate = #1)

Higher rates with: Canada (15%), United Kingdom (15%)

South Africa

Rank 7 of 37 active treaties (lowest rate = #1)

Lower rates with: Cyprus (10%), India (10%), KE (10%)

Higher rates with: Netherlands (10%), Singapore (10%), Australia (15%)

Sources

Data last reviewed: 2026-04-07

Important: Treaty rates require proper claim forms (e.g., IRS Form W-8BEN for U.S. treaties, HMRC DT-Individual for U.K. treaties, CRA Form NR301 for Canadian treaties) filed before payment. Limitation on Benefits (LOB) provisions may restrict eligibility. A 0% withholding rate does not mean no tax β€” the residence country may still tax the income. This is not tax advice.

Related Questions: Nigeria - South Africa