What are the working conditions in South Africa? How can I find a job in this country as an expatriate? Follow the guide to find out how.
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Overview of the employment situation in South Africa
Although the unemployment rate in South Africa is very high, the job market is still open to foreign profiles with specific skills. The country’s economy is also becoming increasingly diversified. The primary and tertiary sectors contribute greatly to the country’s economy, notably through the exploitation of natural resources, agriculture, telecommunications, energy, trade and services.
Many French-speaking expatriates have managed to make a place for themselves in the professional world of the Rainbow Nation. There are several ways to find a job in South Africa, provided certain conditions and formalities are met.
The work permit
A work permit is only issued to foreign nationals with exceptional skills that are in demand in South Africa, or in a rare profession. Otherwise, you can apply for a general work permit. In any case, the application for a work permit must be made after you have been offered a job.
The work permit only allows you to work in the company indicated on the document. The work permit is valid for a maximum of three years and is renewable upon application to the Ministry of the Interior. After working in South Africa for 5 years, you can also apply for a permanent work permit.
Working conditions
The legal working hours in South Africa are 45 hours per week, or 8 to 9 hours per day depending on the number of working days. Overtime, paid at 150%, is limited to 10 hours per week, with a maximum of 3 hours overtime per day.
For full-time employees who have worked for the company for one year, the number of paid vacations allowed is 21 consecutive days. This leave cannot be accumulated from one year to the next.
Where are the opportunities for expatriates?
It is advisable to target sectors where the demand for foreign labor is considerable. This is particularly true in the field of higher education and science. The tertiary sector is not to be outdone. Nevertheless, do not hesitate to apply if you see advertisements that might interest you in any field, keeping in mind that a South African candidate who is as qualified as you are is more likely to be selected for the position.
Finding a job in South Africa
There are several ways to prospect for a job in South Africa. The Internet is the most important: there are many platforms dedicated to job hunting in the country. Since it is essential to get a job offer before applying for a work permit, it is highly recommended to prospect online and through local newspapers before embarking on a new life in South Africa. The press will also be another effective way to find a job in the country. Some of the newspapers available online include South Africa The Good News, News24, The Citizen, Sunday Times and The Star.
On the other hand, given the somewhat reserved nature of many South Africans, many of whom are still strongly influenced by apartheid, word of mouth can work in small, restricted communities. For example, the members of the Cape Town Accueil association can be of great help to French expatriates or Francophones wishing to work in South Africa.