FAQ - Working in Eswatini

Employment contracts in Eswatini must be in writing and include details such as job description, salary, working hours, and duration of employment. The contract should comply with the Employment Act and specify terms of service, probation period, and conditions for termination.

Employers must provide valid reasons for dismissal and follow proper procedures, including written notice. Severance pay is required based on length of service: employees receive compensation equivalent to one week's wages per year of service. Unfair dismissal claims can be filed with the Industrial Court.

Employees are entitled to a minimum of 10 working days of annual leave per year. Additionally, Eswatini recognizes 10 public holidays, and employees are entitled to sick leave (typically 5-10 days per year as per employment agreement) and maternity leave of 12 weeks for female employees.

Eswatini has different minimum wage rates depending on the sector and type of work. As of recent regulations, the minimum wage varies between E1,850 to E3,200 per month depending on the industry classification. Agricultural and domestic workers have specific minimum wage provisions that may differ from other sectors.

The fastest-growing sectors in Eswatini include tourism and hospitality, agriculture and agribusiness, manufacturing, renewable energy, and information technology services. The government is also promoting sectors like sugar processing, textiles, and business process outsourcing as part of economic diversification efforts.

Eswatini's unemployment rate is approximately 28-30%, with youth unemployment being significantly higher at around 40%. The informal sector employs a large portion of the workforce, and job creation remains a key challenge for the government's economic development agenda.

Employment prospects vary by sector and skill level, with better opportunities in tourism, finance, healthcare, and technology sectors. The government is investing in skills development and entrepreneurship programs. Professionals with specialized skills, language proficiency, and relevant qualifications have competitive advantages in the job market.

A strong Eswatini CV should include personal details, professional summary, work experience (with dates and achievements), educational qualifications, technical and language skills, and references. Keep it concise (1-2 pages), professionally formatted, and tailored to the job description. Include any professional certifications or memberships relevant to the position.

Prepare by researching the company thoroughly, understanding the job requirements, and practicing common interview questions. Dress professionally, arrive 10-15 minutes early, maintain eye contact, and demonstrate respect for the interviewer. Be ready to discuss your skills, experience, and how you can contribute to the organization's success.

English is the primary business language in Eswatini and is essential for most professional positions. Siswati, the local language, is also widely spoken and useful for community engagement and local roles. Proficiency in additional languages like Afrikaans or Zulu can be advantageous in certain sectors and regions.

Eswatini's cost of living is moderate for the region. Basic expenses including rent, food, and transportation are relatively affordable compared to Southern African neighbors. However, imported goods and international services are more expensive. Salaries should be evaluated considering local price levels and your lifestyle expectations.

Eswatini has a respectful, hierarchical work culture with emphasis on politeness and formal communication. The pace of work is moderate, and personal relationships are valued in business dealings. Punctuality is expected, and showing respect for authority and traditions is important. The workforce is generally friendly and collaborative.

Public transport in Eswatini consists primarily of minibuses and shared taxis that operate on set routes. Regular bus services connect major towns, though schedules can be flexible. Personal vehicles are common among professionals. Traffic is generally manageable, and driving is on the left side of the road.

To establish a business in Eswatini, you must register with the Companies House, obtain a business license from local authorities, and register for tax purposes with the Eswatini Revenue Authority. Requirements vary by business type and size. Professional assistance from local business consultants is recommended for compliance with all regulations.

Employers must register for company tax, withhold and remit employee income tax, and pay employer contributions to the Public Service Pension Fund. Corporate income tax rate is 30%, and employers must maintain proper accounting records. Value Added Tax (VAT) applies at 14% for most goods and services, with certain exemptions for essential items.