Countries looking for South African workers

If you’re wondering what countries looking for South African workers would be a good choice for you, chances are you are dipping your toe into the pond of immigration, aka testing the proverbial waters! 

Let’s be honest; the decision to immigrate, no matter where you reside in the world, is a tough one. Leaving one’s place of birth and everything familiar can be a daunting step. For many, it’s a choice they don’t even consider, especially when living ensconced on the shores of sunny South Africa. However, for some wanderlust embued Saffas, the desire to experience a different culture is a big drawcard.

For others, immigration is a necessity due to work or study opportunities. But, whatever your reasons for leaving, we know the decision isn’t taken lightly. So understanding your options when it comes to countries looking for South African workers is important because, at the end of the day, we all need to work to eat no matter where we live!  

Popular countries to immigrate to from South Africa 

When scouring our archives for information on this, we found that typical destinations South African immigrants head for are Canada, Australia and New Zealand. Often it’s because these countries’ climates are pretty similar to ours. Additionally, they offer skilled South Africans excellent work opportunities, international life experience, and spectacular living conditions and benefits. 

• Canada

In terms of countries looking for South African workers, Canada scoops first place! The federal Liberal government hopes to attract an average of 500 000 immigrants annually by 2025, including skilled South Africans, to rectify a “critical labour shortage across the country.” So there’s bound to be a spot for you! If you qualify, you can secure Canadian residency via a permanent residency visa or a temporary work permit which can be converted to permanent residence. 

• Australia

Australia’s most common permanent residency visas are family and skilled work visas. To qualify for a permanent residency visa, you must meet certain criteria. For example, Australia works on a points-based system that requires skilled workers to have a certain number of qualifying points before they can apply.  

• New Zealand

 New Zealand has quite a few visa options for those looking to reside and work in the country. In addition, they have a handy skills shortage checker called the ‘Green List,’ which can help determine whether you require a Tier 1 or Tier 1 work visa.

Easiest European countries to immigrate to from South Africa

 If you are looking for the easiest European countries to immigrate to from South Africa, Germany and the Czech Republic are definitely worth considering. 

• Germany

The migration act for skilled workers makes moving to Germany quick and simple. After receiving your initial 6-month permit to find work in Germany, you can apply for a work permit (visa type dependent). After that, you can stay in Germany for up to 4 years on a temporary resident permit, after which you can apply for permanent residency status. 

• Czech Republic

If you’re looking to live and work abroad, the Czech Republic has a gap for you! Their supply of skilled workers is exceptionally low, meaning they are in great demand. The high level of job vacancies means finding work and moving to the Czech Republic on a work visa is quite simple. Furthermore, if your work contract is still valid after a year, you can renew it. If you remain in the country on a temporary residence permit for a minimum of five years, you can apply for permanent residency. 

Cheapest countries to immigrate to from South Africa 

Some of the cheapest countries to immigrate to from South Africa are Vietnam, Mexico and Bulgaria. Of course, each has its entry requirements and visa stipulations, but they definitely come out tops in terms of living costs and affordability.

Furthermore, Vietnam offers South Africans a simple immigration process that allows them to apply for work visas at a Vietnam Embassy in South Africa or via e-visa online. So in answer to your question, which is the easiest country to immigrate to from South Africa, Vietnam takes first place!

Immigration factors to consider besides cost

While we are all guilty of searching for the cheapest country to immigrate to from South Africa, sometimes cost, while important, isn’t the only factor to consider.

• Some countries don’t allow for dual citizenship, meaning you may have to renounce your South African citizenship in favour of theirs.
• Choosing a new country should involve looking at its economic stability, employment opportunities, cost of living and transport systems. Its no point moving to a ‘cheap’ new country with no infrastructure!
• What benefits can you get from your new country? For example, health system, housing, education, elderly care and pensions.

Professional advice for SA expats at FinGlobal 

FinGlobal prides itself on providing quality emigration advice to expats at home and abroad. With industry experience that spans more than a decade, you can be confident the professional FinGlobal team offers the right advice tailored to your needs.

For advice on tax, South African retirement annuities, pensions, forex and most things relating to immigration, the FinGobal team can assist. Contact the FinGlobal team today. 

To discuss your unique needs with our team, simply get in touch with us. Give us a call on +27 28 312 2764 or send us an email at info@finglobal.com, and we will assist you promptly.