Introduction
For many South African IT professionals, the dream of earning an offshore salary while enjoying our beautiful country is becoming a tangible reality. The global shift towards remote work has opened up incredible opportunities, allowing local talent to compete on an international stage.
But how exactly do you navigate this exciting, yet sometimes complex, landscape? This article will break down the essential steps to landing that coveted remote IT role with an overseas company from right here in Mzansi.
Table of Contents
- 1. Levelling Up Your Skillset
- 2. Crafting a World-Class Profile
- 3. Navigating the Global Job Market
- 4. Understanding the Practicalities
- 5. Final Thoughts
1. Levelling Up Your Skillset
Overseas companies are typically looking for highly skilled professionals who can hit the ground running. They often focus on niche, high-demand areas where local talent pools might be smaller or more expensive.
Think beyond just coding. Proficiency in cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud is often non-negotiable. Furthermore, specialisations in areas such as cybersecurity, data science, AI/ML, or DevOps are incredibly attractive.
1.1 Staying Relevant
The tech world evolves at warp speed, so continuous learning is key. Consider obtaining internationally recognised certifications in your field. Platforms like Coursera or Udemy offer excellent courses, and official vendor certifications from Microsoft or CompTIA add serious weight to your application.
Keep an eye on global tech trends. Publications like MyBroadband’s IT News or international tech outlets can provide insight into what’s hot.
2. Crafting a World-Class Profile
Your CV, LinkedIn profile, and online portfolio are your passports to international opportunities. These need to be impeccably tailored for a global audience.
Ensure your CV is concise, highlights achievements over just duties, and uses keywords that Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) can pick up. Recruiters abroad might not understand local jargon or company names, so keep it universally accessible.
2.1 The Power of LinkedIn and Portfolios
Your LinkedIn profile should be a living, breathing testament to your expertise. Make sure it’s fully optimised with a professional photo, detailed experience, skill endorsements, and recommendations. Actively engage with industry content and thought leaders.
For developers, a well-curated GitHub profile showcasing your projects and contributions is invaluable. Designers need a strong Behance or personal portfolio website. Always remember to showcase your best work clearly.
3. Navigating the Global Job Market
Gone are the days of only checking local job boards. To find overseas roles, you need to broaden your search significantly.
Global remote job platforms like Remote.co, We Work Remotely, or even specific niche sites for your tech stack are excellent starting points. Don’t forget to leverage recruitment agencies that specialise in placing South African tech talent internationally, such as OfferZen or Robert Walters.
Many international companies also post remote roles directly on their career pages, so targeted research into companies you admire can yield results. Networking within online communities and forums can also uncover hidden gems.
4. Understanding the Practicalities
Securing the job is just one part of the equation; understanding the logistical and legal aspects is crucial. Most overseas companies will hire you as an independent contractor, not a full employee, to simplify tax and labour laws.
This means you’ll be responsible for your own taxes and benefits. Familiarise yourself with South African tax laws regarding foreign income, especially the section 10(1)(o)(ii) exemption and potential double taxation agreements. The SARS website is your go-to resource for accurate information.
4.1 Payments and Time Zones
For payments, reliable platforms like Wise (formerly TransferWise) or Payoneer are often preferred over traditional bank SWIFT transfers due to lower fees and better exchange rates. Ensure you have a clear agreement on payment terms and currency.
Finally, be prepared to adjust to different time zones. While many roles offer flexibility, some may require overlap with the client’s working hours, which could mean early mornings or late nights for you.
5. Final Thoughts
Landing a remote IT role with an overseas company from South Africa is entirely achievable, but it requires a strategic approach. Invest in your skills, perfect your online presence, cast a wide net in your job search, and understand the practicalities of international contracting.
It’s a journey that demands patience and persistence, but the rewards—often including competitive salaries and diverse projects—are well worth the effort. Have you landed a remote overseas role from SA? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below!