In addition to Affirmative Action (AA) policies which give preference to people of color, those with disabilities and to females, foreigners, unless displaying extraordinary skill or experience may be passed over in favor of local employees. South Africa, like any other country, has an obligation to its people first and foremost and so limited opportunities are available.

South Africa has an exceptionally high unemployment rate (over 40%) and a massive pool of unskilled laborers. Demand for skilled workers is high, though. You will, of course, need a valid work permit in order to find legal employment in the country. As is the case in other countries, the web and local newspapers are as good as any place to start your job search.

A rosy future is forecast but right now opportunities are mainly for professionals and entrepreneurs.

South Africa has the most advanced economy in Africa - its GDP is nearly four times that of Egypt, its nearest competitor on the continent. But there is high unemployment and only 14 per cent of South Africans enjoy a standard of living equivalent to that of Western Europeans or North Americans.