The leading economy in Southern Africa and the 3rd largest GDP of the continent, South Africa is based on a modern and diversified economy. The only African country to be a member of the G20 and the BRICS, it possesses a large number of assets - abundant natural resources, an international economy, high quality infrastructures and a flourishing services sector. 

Source : Business France Country File 

Good to know :

Languages Spoken : 11 official languages / English as business language
Local Currency : South-African Rand (ZAR)
Capital : Pretoria 

The conditions for undertaking a Business France V.I.E in South Africa

Do you already meet the International Young Talent Program criteria ?

Then, consult the table here!

- If your situation only meets ☼, you can try your luck for a V.I.E in South Africa. Your application will be studied.

- If your situation meets at least 1 X, South Africa cannot accommodate you in V.I.E. Don't be discouraged, continue your research!

Do you have any doubts about your eligibility ? Feel free to contact us.

The conditions for undertaking a Business France V.I.A in South Africa

To go to South Africa as a V.I.A, you must fulfil the access conditions to the  V.I.A.
The administration that is recruiting you is responsible for your residence permit.

Cultural work codes in South Africa

In South Africa, English is without doubt the language of business. Business contacts are quite formal and punctuality is expected.  As for “dress code”, it is rather traditional with the exception of Fridays, where “casual Friday” is practised in most companies.

As everywhere in Africa, relations are a key element in business. Take care to create genuine and sincere relations based on trust. To break the ice, avoid sensitive subjects - the political situation, corruption, Apartheid - and opt instead for light-hearted subjects such as sport, the breath taking beauty of the country and its political and economic importance.

Things that may surprise you in South Africa

- In South Africa they drive on the left. It will take some time to get used to it, so make sure you keep your eyes open when you cross the road and drive carefully !

- "Unity in diversity" - this is the motto of the “Rainbow Nation”! It was Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Winner of the Nobel Peace Prize in 1984, who came up with this. His dream? To see the emergence of a post-racial society after Apartheid. However, you will undoubtedly notice that the various ethnic groups today live more “side by side” than together. But that doesn't stop the people of South Africa from sharing a common identity and being very proud of their country. 

- Although South Africa is one of the most unequal countries in the world with high levels of crime, don't stop there, take a closer look! It is also a magnificent country that is worth visiting - from Josy (Johannesburg) to Port Elizabeth, Pretoria or Durban, discover its magnificent landscapes and wonderful nature reserves. The rich culture and gastronomy, from Cape Town's restaurants to the Neighbourgoods Market, will leave you with lasting memories. In short, as you can see, South Africa is both astonishing and captivating !

- The multiculturalism of South Africa can be seen in its linguistic diversity: 11 official languages including 9 spoken by the black populations that represent 80% of the population. Although Afrikaans is predominant in certain sectors (mines, agriculture) and Zulu is the most spoken mother tongue in South Africa, the language of business, for all ethnicities, is English. So, no problem greeting people in English but to relax the atmosphere, don’t hesitate to adapt to the situation. For example, you can say hello in Afrikaans with a "Goeie more, Hoe gaan dit" (Hello, how are you ?) or in Zulu "Sawubona, Unjani". 

- Among South African expressions you must absolutely know there is the universal "Howzit", contraction of "How is it" to which you generally answer "sharp". You can also try a "good day" to end a telephone conversation. It's the best way to make people forget that you are a foreigner ! 

- Finally, to integrate even faster, you can use the "African handshake". This takes place in three stages - while the first and third consist of a classic handshake, the second is more reminiscent of arm wrestling. Don't panic, just do what your counterpart does. You’ll soon get the hang of it !