Live and work in South Africa

South-africa

Life in South Africa

South Africa is a melting pot of cultures, languages, and traditions. Embrace the spirit of ubuntu, the belief in humanity and community, as you connect with the friendly locals. From the vibrant townships to the cosmopolitan cities, you’ll find a wealth of music, art, and cuisine that reflects the nation’s rich heritage.

Nature lovers will undoubtedly be amazed of South Africa’s natural wonders. From the majestic Table Mountain in Cape Town to the sprawling savannahs of Kruger National Park, there’s no shortage of breathtaking landscapes to explore. South Africa is home to the famous Big Five; lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo.

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Quick facts about working in South Africa

  • Average working hours per week: Maximum 45 hours, 8-9 hours daily
  • Typical working day: Monday to Friday from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm
  • Number of Vacation days: 21 days
  • Commute: Mostly bus, train, and minibus
  • Work culture: Hierarchical

You will have colleagues from everywhere, but you will speak in your own native language, supporting customers from your country.

Read more about Moving to South Africa

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Quick info about South Africa

Typical food

Bobotie (meat.based dish), boerewors (farmer's sausage), chakalaka and pap (veggie dish with unique spices), malva pudding (cake with apricot jam and rich sauce)

Population

~59,39 million people

Location

South Africa is at the southern tip of Africa and borders Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Swaziland. The capital city is Cape Town

Languages

Telugu, Kannada, Tamil, Malayalam & English

Famous people

Nelson Mandela, Mahatma Gandhi, Charlize Theron

Currency

South African Rand (ISO code: ZAR, symbol: R)

Avg. working week

Maximum 45 hours 
8-9 hours daily

Healthcare

Private healthcare is of high quality and standard, while public healthcare can be various.

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Other countries nearby

FAQ

Yes, everyone who is not a permanent resident of South Africa will need to apply for a South African work visa before working there. You can find all the information here.

English is widely spoken and understood in South Africa, particularly in urban areas, major cities, and tourist destinations. English is one of the official languages of the country, along with several others. Most South Africans are bilingual, speaking English as their second language, and it is commonly used in business, education, and government sectors. However, it’s important to note that there are also various local languages spoken by different communities in South Africa, such as Zulu, Xhosa, Afrikaans, and others.

South Africa has a diverse climate due to its size and varied topography. The coastal areas, such as Cape Town and Durban, have a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. The inland regions has a more temperate climate, while the northeastern parts have a subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild winters. The northernmost parts of the country have a semi-arid to arid climate. Overall, South Africa enjoys pleasant temperatures throughout the year, making it an appealing destination for outdoor activities and wildlife enthusiasts.

 
 
 

South Africa has both areas that are relatively safe for visitors and areas with higher crime rates, so safety can vary depending on the specific location. While the majority of visits to South Africa are trouble-free, it is important to exercise some caution. In general it is advisable to take common-sense precautions such as avoiding displaying signs of wealth, not walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas, and simply being aware of your surroundings. It is also recommended to stay informed about local safety advisories and follow the guidance of local authorities and tour operators. But with that said, we wish to stress the fact that people actually already live there and a good common sense, trust and making some friends/connections will take you far no matter if you are in Europe, Africa, South America etc. 

South Africa offers a variety of public transport options for getting around. Major cities like Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban have well-developed bus networks, including the popular MyCiTi bus system in Cape Town. Metrorail provides train services in certain areas, while minibus taxis are a common mode of transport, although they can be crowded. Uber and other ride-sharing services are also available in urban areas. It’s important to note that public transport infrastructure may vary between cities and regions, so it’s advisable to plan your journeys accordingly.

South Africa has a two-tiered healthcare system consisting of public and private sectors. The public healthcare system provides services to the majority of the population, but it is often underfunded and may suffer from resource limitations. The private healthcare sector offers higher-quality care and is predominantly used by those with private health insurance or who can afford out-of-pocket expenses. It’s important for visitors and expatriates to have comprehensive health insurance coverage when in South Africa to ensure access to quality healthcare services. 

The cost of living in South Africa can vary depending on the city and region. Generally, South Africa is considered to have a relatively low cost of living compared to many other countries. Accommodation, transportation, and food expenses can be affordable, especially when compared to Western countries. However, certain items and services, such as imported goods and high-end luxury items, may be relatively more expensive. It’s important to note that the cost of living can also vary depending on your lifestyle choices and preferences. Major cities like Johannesburg and Cape Town tend to have higher living costs compared to smaller towns and rural areas.

Still not convinced about South Africa?

Living in South Africa means embracing its complex history and journey towards unity and equality. Take the time to learn about the country’s past, visit historical sites, and engage in conversations that shape its future.

South Africa offers a diverse range of attractions to explore. Kruger National Park is one of the largest reserves in Africa, and it will for sure provide an incredible safari experience and a chance to spot the “Big Five”. You should definitely also explore the vibrant city of Cape Town, with its iconic Table Mountain, stunning coastal scenery, and diverse cultural attractions. Adrenaline junkies will definitely get their fix in South Africa’s adventure playground. Dive with sharks, go bungee jumping off the world’s highest commercial bridge, or embark on a thrilling safari. With its diverse terrain, you’ll never run out of thrilling activities to get your heart racing.

And you also really do not want to miss the breathtaking landscapes of the Garden Route! This is a scenic and picturesque stretch of coastline that offers the most beautiful beaches, forests, and also charming towns along the way. 

Foodies will go onboard in the flavours of South African cuisine. Indulge in a braai (barbecue) feast, savor the flavors of Cape Malay curries, or sample biltong, the country’s beloved dried meat snack. And of course, pair it all with the world-class wines that South Africa is known for.

Don’t miss your chance of moving to South Africa – if not now, when?

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