Is it hard to get a job in South Africa?
Asked by: Rubie VonRueden MD | Last update: November 3, 2025Score: 4.5/5 (66 votes)
South Africa presents a complex environment for expatriates seeking employment. It can be somewhat tough to get work as a migrant in South Africa unless you have specific skills and qualifications needed in the country. Most working-age expats moving to South Africa tend to have a job offer first before relocating.
What are the chances of getting a job in South Africa?
The data further reveals that the youth's overall transition rate into employment was 4,7% in 2022, an increase of 1,2 percentage points from 3,5% in 2021. In the same period, adult rates remained unchanged at 6,7%. A person's chances of landing and keeping a job are also greatly influenced by their level of education.
Can Americans get a job in South Africa?
South African immigration law offers a wide variety of temporary residence permits that make living, studying, and working in South Africa possible for foreigners and expats. There are also special permits for retirees who would like to spend their golden years in the country.
Which jobs are easy to get in South Africa?
- Executive Assistant (Fully Remote) ...
- Founding BDR (GTM) — Remote, US hours, $30k-$80k/yr (cash + commission + equity) ...
- Contact Centre Agent. ...
- Sales Representative (with B2B experience) ...
- Global Head of Content. ...
- South African Online English Teacher (Kids and Adult Students)
Do jobs in South Africa pay well?
South Africa has many jobs that pay really well, even though finding a job can be tough. Some of these jobs are in healthcare, technology, and even working on ships. Varsity College has shared a list of some of the best-paying jobs in the country. In some of these careers, people can earn as much as R5 million a year.
TOP 5 JOBS IN DEMAND IN SOUTH AFRICA IN 2024 | Rorisang Mabogoane | South African YouTuber
What is a livable salary in South Africa?
What a 'livable wage' should be in South Africa – according to researchers. The estimates of a minimum livable monthly income in South Africa for 2024 sits at R15,000 – significantly higher than the average monthly income of minimum wage workers across the country.
Which job is highly demanded in South Africa?
Engineering remains a cornerstone of the South African job market, with civil, mechanical, and electrical engineers in high demand. The construction industry is also experiencing growth due to infrastructure projects.
Is South Africa a good place to live and work?
If you're thinking about moving to South Africa, you're in good company. South Africa is already home to around 2.8 million expatriates who come from all over the world to enjoy the country's vibrant culture, incredible scenery and fast-paced economy.
What skill is in demand in South Africa?
Job market trends in South Africa suggest that specific skills are in short supply and point to certain careers being among the best professions to pursue in South Africa: IT professionals, like software developers, cybersecurity experts, data analysts and AI specialists, are in high demand.
Why is there a lack of job opportunities in South Africa?
One argument put forward is that the South African labour market is over-regulated. That there is too much protection for workers, and wage levels are too high for employers. An additional argument is that workers' skills do not match what is needed by employers.
Can I live in South Africa as a US citizen?
In general, if you are staying in South Africa for more than 90 days you will require a proper visa to justify the length of your stay in this country. You can move to South Africa from the USA for work, study to reunite with a family member or to retire in this stunning country.
Is it difficult to find a job in South Africa?
According to Stats SA, South Africa's unemployment rate stands stubbornly high at around 32.79%, with youth unemployment reported to be at 44.3% in the fourth quarter of 2023.
Where do most foreigners live in South Africa?
The most settled cities in South Africa by expats are Cape Town, Johannesburg, Pretoria, and Durban. Each city has its charms and quirks, and each has a certain thing people chase when moving there.
What is the minimum wage in South Africa?
As of 2024, the national minimum wage in South Africa is R27. 58 per hour. This rate is applicable to all workers, including farm workers and domestic workers.
Why are so many people unemployed in South Africa?
Two main factors are often quoted as contributing to this phenomenon: (1) Prescriptive labour market restrictions aimed at improving the prospects of previously-marginalised people, which make companies reticent to absorb more labour and (2) The fact that more people are entering into or “participating” in the labour ...
Which careers are not in demand in South Africa?
Knowing which fields are shrinking is essential if you are planning your career. According to News 2024, some careers no longer in demand in South Africa include bank tellers, telemarketers, insurance brokers, dispatch managers, and travel consultants.
Why is there a skills shortage in South Africa?
A skills gap can be caused by various factors, such as rapid technological advancements, changes in the job market, and a lack of investment in training and education. It can lead to a shortage of qualified workers, slower economic growth, and lower productivity.
What field has the most job opportunities?
Therefore, the highest number of job openings fall in the following occupations: Home health and personal care aides. Cooks at restaurants. Software developers.
What are the most rare careers in South Africa?
- Artificial Intelligence And Machine Learning. ...
- Blockchain Development. ...
- Data Science And Analytics. ...
- Cybersecurity. ...
- Cloud Computing. ...
- Financial Analysis And Investment Management.
What salary is needed to live comfortably in South Africa?
Professor Ines Meyer of the University of Cape Town recently emphasised that according to the Living Wage South Africa Network (LWSAN), the monthly living wage amount for 2024 will be R15,000 net. This number is calculated based on the self-reported quality of life of low-income survey participants from South Africa.
Is it cheaper to live in America or South Africa?
Conclusion. Overall, the cost of living in South Africa is generally lower than in the United States, especially in terms of housing, utilities, and groceries. However, healthcare and transportation costs can vary, and it's important to consider these factors when planning your move.
What is the safest African country to live in?
Mauritius is the Safest Country in Africa
The Indian Ocean island is also ranked the 23rd safest country globally as of 2023 GPI data. A total of 163 countries are featured in the GPI report, which ranks each country's level of safety or danger based on 23 indicators.
What is the most stressful job in South Africa?
Pilots were found to have the most stressful jobs in South Africa as a result of the high degree of personal risk the job poses to themselves and others. The taxing physical and mental demands of the role, on top of working long and arduous hours, also added to its high high-stress stress rating.
Which city in South Africa has the most job opportunities?
These are all metropolitan municipalities and the five with the most jobs are Johannesburg, Cape Town, Tshwane, eThekwini and Ekurhuleni. Together they account for almost 60% of total formal employment in the country.