Looking to work abroad from South Africa? Discover visa options, CV tips, top countries hiring South Africans, and how to safely land your overseas job in 2025 & 2026. Working abroad is more possible than ever. Whether you want career growth, better pay or a new adventure, opportunities exist worldwide. This guide shows South Africans how to land a job overseas, prepare a global-ready CV and move safely.
How to Find Work Abroad
Step 1: Understand Your Visa Options
Know which visa allows you to work abroad. Key options:
Skilled Worker Visa
For professionals in engineering, healthcare, IT, and construction. Countries like the UK, Canada, and Australia fast-track skilled workers. Canada’s Express Entry system scores candidates on experience, education, and language skills.
Working Holiday Visa
For under 35s who want to travel and work. Available in Australia, New Zealand, and the UK, ideal for hospitality or temporary roles.
Job-Seeker Visa
Countries such as Germany and Portugal allow you to move first and find work locally. Proof of savings is needed, but no sponsorship is required.
Lesser-Known Visas
- Japan Specified Skilled Worker Visa: Trades, caregivers, hospitality.
- Portugal Digital Nomad Visa: Remote work earning R50k+/month.
- UAE Work Visa: Tax-free income.
- Netherlands Highly Skilled Migrant Programme: Direct hire by Dutch companies.
Step 2: Make Your CV Global-Ready
Overseas employers expect clarity and results.
| CV Tip | Action |
| Show results, not adjectives | Avoid vague descriptors; show measurable achievements |
| Use metrics | “Improved customer retention by 20%” beats “responsible for customer service” |
| Keep it simple | 2 pages max, standard fonts, no headshots unless required |
| Match local English | UK vs US spelling depending on the market |
Tailor your CV and cover letter for each role, and highlight your willingness to relocate and visa status.
Step 3: Apply Strategically
Focus on sectors that hire foreign workers:
- Healthcare, IT, Construction, Education, Finance: high demand globally
- Hospitality, farming, trades: great for working holidays or visa sponsorships
- Remote/Hybrid Roles: tech, marketing, design
Persistence matters. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t hear back immediately.
Step 4: Prepare for Your Visa Application
Most countries require:
- Valid passport
- Proof of qualifications or trade certificates
- Job offer or sponsorship letter
- Police clearance & medical checks
- Proof of savings (for job-seeker or holiday visas)
- English proficiency test (IELTS) in some cases
Check your country’s official visa page before applying.
Step 5: Choose the Right Country for You
| Country | Benefits for South Africans |
| 🇨🇦 Canada | Express Entry & Provincial Nominee Programmes |
| 🇦🇺 Australia | High pay, Skilled Independent Visa (189) |
| 🇬🇧 UK | Skilled Worker Visa + Youth Mobility Scheme |
| 🇳🇿 New Zealand | Work-life balance, visas for trades & professionals |
| 🇩🇪 Germany | EU Blue Card & Job-Seeker Visa |
| 🇦🇪 UAE / 🇶🇦 Qatar | Tax-free income, demand in healthcare & hospitality |
| 🇵🇹 Portugal | Job-seeker & digital nomad visas |
| 🇯🇵 Japan / 🇰🇷 South Korea | High demand for English teachers & skilled professionals |
Step 6: Book Your Flight
Once your visa is approved, book your move. Travelstart helps you find affordable flights.
How to Work Abroad Without a Degree
Many countries value skills and experience over formal qualifications. Options:
- Working Holiday Visas: Hospitality, tourism, farm work, temporary roles
- Au Pair & Caregiving Jobs: High demand in Europe & North America
- Trade Jobs: Electricians, plumbers, mechanics, drivers
- Seasonal Work: Harvesting, hospitality, resorts
- Teaching English Abroad: TEFL certificate + strong English
Avoid Overseas Work Scams
Stay safe:
- Never pay for a job offer: legitimate employers don’t charge
- Verify companies: check websites, reviews, and contact info
- Avoid instant approvals: visas take time
- Use official government/embassy sites
- Confirm visa type: travel visa ≠ work visa
FAQs about finding work abroad
Q: Which jobs are in demand overseas?
A: Healthcare, IT, engineering, teaching, trades, hospitality & agriculture
Q: Do I need a degree?
A: Not always. Skilled trades, seasonal work, and working holidays are open to non degree holders
Q: What is a Skilled Worker Visa?
A: A visa allowing qualified workers to fill in demand roles abroad, e.g., nurses, developers, welders
Q: Which countries hire South Africans the most?
A: Canada, UK, Australia, New Zealand, UAE, Germany, plus growing opportunities in Portugal, Japan, Netherlands
Ready to Start Your Work abroad?
With the right visa, global-ready CV, and persistence, your international career goals are within reach. Apply smart, stay safe, and let Travelstart get you there. One flight closer to your next chapter.
Plan your move abroad with Travelstart today