Foreign nationals must obtain a Work Permit and Visa to be employed in Botswana.

• Work Visa: Typically issued for up to five years and renewable.
• Temporary Permits: Available for short assignments of up to three months.
• Employers must demonstrate that no suitably qualified local candidate is available before hiring a foreign national.
• Applications require documentation such as a contract, CV, medical and criminal clearance certificates, and translations into English.

• Employers must register with the Botswana Unified Revenue Service (BURS) for PAYE shortly after hiring.
• Botswana does not levy social security contributions; payroll obligations focus on income tax.
• Payroll is typically run monthly, with salaries paid between the 15th and the end of the month.
• Employers are responsible for withholding PAYE and submitting returns monthly, with annual reconciliations required.

• Contracts may be fixed‑term or open‑ended.
• Probation Period: Typically three to twelve months, depending on the role.
• Working Hours: Standard workweek is 48 hours. Overtime is limited and must be compensated, usually at premium rates.
• Termination: Requires notice or pay in lieu. Severance may apply after extended service, except in cases of serious misconduct.
• Collective bargaining agreements exist in certain sectors.

• There are no mandatory social security contributions, but employers often provide additional benefits.
• Annual Leave: At least 15 days of paid leave per year, plus public holidays.
• Sick Leave: Paid leave provided, typically around 20 days per year with medical certification.
• Maternity Leave: 12 weeks, often with partial or full salary coverage.
• Paternity Leave: Commonly three days of paid leave.
• Many employers supplement with allowances such as transport or wellness benefits.