Work South Africa
See for yourself stunning national parks, spectacular views, Cape Town, Table Mountain and more. On Work South Africa, the 12-month visa means you have the flexibility to find any sort of work while you're there. The option to explore one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations is available throughout your stay.
Who can Apply?
To apply to Work South Africa, you must be:
- aged 18-25 at the time of travel;
- a recent graduate (within 6 months) or a current full-time UK university student. Can be any nationality.
Costs
The programme cost is £499. This includes the first six nights accommodation in Cape Town including a wine tasting trip, township and city tour, social evening and arrival orientation, BUNAC services in the UK and the support services of SASTS, South African Students Travel Service during your stay.
The cost of the special work permit issued by the South African Government is currently £40.
Flights from London are to Cape Town. The cost of the return flight in 2008 is approximately £800. BUNAC’s specially arranged insurance is compulsory for all participants; currently, a six month policy is £233.
| Departure Date |
Closing Date |
|
26th July 2008 |
16th May 2008 |
| 27th September 2008 |
18th July 2008 |
| 25th October 2008 |
15th August 2008 |
| 22nd November 2008 |
12th September 2008 |
All costs will be confirmed upon application to the programme.
"I lived and worked in one of the most beautiful cities in the world and experienced South Africa in a way that is impossible to do as a tourist."
Jobs and Accommodation
The unique work permit means you are free to work in any area of South Africa. However, participants are advised to begin the working part of their trip in Cape Town where the arrival orientation is held. The high season runs from October to March, during which time you can concentrate your job search in the tourist-related areas.
Finding work in South Africa can be challenging. Although you do not have to have a job before you go, it is definitely worth doing some research prior to your departure.
During the winter months, participants can travel along the garden route through Port Elizabeth to Durban where the warmer climate provides more opportunities to work in the hospitality and tourist industries.
Accommodation is sometimes included as part of the package for hotel and resort jobs. Alternatively, agencies can provide details of competitively-priced hostels and budget accommodation. You could also think about sharing a place with a group as a way of reducing the cost of your accommodation.
You’ll need to take as much money as possible with you to keep you going until you receive your first wage. However the strength of sterling compared to the Rand means your money goes a long way once you’re out there.
Want to work as a volunteer in South Africa?