Foreign nationals must obtain a work permit before employment. Common categories include Temporary Employment Permits (TEP), Long-Term Work Permits, and Investor Permits. Applications require a valid passport, job contract, professional qualifications, police clearance, proof of local recruitment, and employer documentation.

• Processing time: Typically 4–8 weeks.
• Initial validity: Generally 12 months; renewable up to 5 years.
• Fees vary by type, with TEP generally the most affordable.

• Payroll Cycle: Monthly.
• Withholdings & Contributions:
  
  • PAYE (Income Tax): Progressive rates, applicable to employment income.
  • NSSA Contributions: Shared between employer and employee, with additional levies for training, workers’ compensation, and development.
  • AIDS Levy: Additional tax of 3% on PAYE collected.
• Additional Payroll Costs: Typically add around 8% on top of salary for statutory obligations.

• Contracts are typically written, defining probation, working hours, notice, and termination terms.
• Probation: Often up to 6 months.
• Overtime: Paid above standard hours; premium rates apply.
• Severance and termination terms vary by tenure and cause.

• Annual Leave: 30 days per year.
• Maternity Leave: 98 days.
• Public Holidays: Approximately 15 days annually.
• Social Security: Includes pension, disability, survivor benefits, and compensation for work-related injury.
• Additional Funds: Employers contribute to training and development funds beyond regular social security.