Looking to work abroad from South Africa? Discover visa alternatives, CV pointers, leading nations working with South Africans, and how to safely land your abroad task in 2025 & 2026. Working abroad is more possible than ever. Whether you want career growth, much better pay or a brand-new adventure, chances exist worldwide. This guide reveals South Africans how to land a task overseas, prepare a global-ready CV and move securely.
How to Discover Work Abroad
Step 1: Understand Your Visa Options Know which visa permits you to work abroad. Secret options: Competent Employee
Visa For specialists in engineering, health care, IT, and building. Countries like the UK, Canada, and Australia fast-track knowledgeable employees. Canada’s Express Entry system ratings prospects on experience, education, and language skills.
Working Vacation Visa
For under 35s who wish to travel and work. Offered in Australia, New Zealand, and the UK, ideal for hospitality or short-lived roles.
Job-Seeker Visa
Nations such as Germany and Portugal permit you to move first and discover work locally. Evidence of cost savings is required, however no sponsorship is required.
Lesser-Known Visas
- Japan Specified Competent Employee Visa: Trades, caregivers, hospitality.
- Portugal Digital Nomad Visa: Remote work earning R50k+/ month.
- UAE Work Visa: Tax-free earnings.
- Netherlands Highly Experienced Migrant Programme: Direct hire by Dutch business.
Action 2: Make Your CV Global-Ready
Overseas employers expect clarity and outcomes. CV Idea Action Program outcomes, not adjectives Avoid unclear descriptors; program measurable achievements
Tailor your CV and cover letter for each function, and highlight your willingness to relocate and visa status.
Step 3: Use Tactically
Focus on sectors that work with foreign employees:
- Health care, IT, Building, Education, Finance: high demand globally
- Hospitality, farming, trades: fantastic for working holidays or visa sponsorships
- Remote/Hybrid Responsibilities: tech, marketing, design
Perseverance matters. Do not get prevented if you don’t hear back right away.
Step 4: Get Ready For Your Visa Application
The majority of nations require:
- Valid passport
- Proof of certifications or trade certificates
- Job deal or sponsorship letter
- Cops clearance & medical checks
- Evidence of savings (for job-seeker or vacation visas)
- English proficiency test (IELTS) in some cases
Inspect your country’s main visa page before applying.
Step 5: Select the Right Country for You
| Country Advantages for South Africans Canada Express Entry & Provincial Nominee Programmes | |
| Australia | High pay, Knowledgeable Independent Visa (189 ) |
| UK | Skilled Worker Visa + Youth Movement Scheme |
| New Zealand | Work-life balance, visas for trades & specialists |
| Germany | EU Blue Card & Job-Seeker Visa |
| UAE/ Qatar | Tax-free earnings, demand in health care & hospitality |
| Portugal | Job-seeker & digital nomad visas |
| Japan/ South Korea | High demand for English teachers & skilled professionals |
Step 6: Reserve Your Flight
When your visa is approved, book your move. Travelstart helps you find budget friendly flights.
Search flights on Travelstart
How to Work Abroad Without a Degree
Lots of nations worth abilities and experience over formal qualifications. Options:
- Working Holiday Visas: Hospitality, tourist, farm work, momentary roles
- Au Set & Caregiving Jobs: High demand in Europe & North America
- Trade Jobs: Electrical contractors, plumbings, mechanics, drivers
- Seasonal Work: Harvesting, hospitality, resorts
- Teaching English Abroad: TEFL certificate + strong English
Prevent Overseas Work Scams
Stay safe:
- Never pay for a job offer: genuine employers don’t charge
- Verify business: inspect websites, reviews, and contact info
- Avoid instantaneous approvals: visas take some time
- Use official government/embassy websites
- Confirm visa type: travel visa ≠ work visa
Frequently asked questions about finding work abroad
Q: Which jobs are in need overseas?
A: Health care, IT, engineering, mentor, trades, hospitality & agriculture
Q: Do I need a degree?
A: Not always. Knowledgeable trades, seasonal work, and working vacations are open to non degree holders
Q: What is a Proficient Worker Visa?
A: A visa enabling certified workers to complete demand functions abroad, e.g., nurses, designers, welders
Q: Which countries hire South Africans the most?
A: Canada, UK, Australia, New Zealand, UAE, Germany, plus growing chances in Portugal, Japan, Netherlands
Ready to Start Your Work abroad?
With the right visa, global-ready CV, and determination, your global career objectives are within reach. Apply smart, stay safe, and let Travelstart get you there. One flight closer to your next chapter.
Plan your emigrate with Travelstart today