In the South African context, the FIC Act distinguishes between two types of politically exposed persons:
- A DPIP is an individual who holds, including in an acting position for a period exceeding six months, or has held at any time in the preceding 12 months in South Africa, a prominent public function as listed in Schedule 3A of the FIC Act.
- An FPPO is an individual who holds, or has held at any time in the preceding 12 months, in any foreign country a prominent public function as listed in Schedule 3B of the FIC Act.