South Africa is rapidly emerging as a preferred destination for global employers seeking highly skilled yet cost-efficient talent. Recruitment specialists and employer of record firms like The Legends Agency report a significant uptick in international companies hiring South African workers to meet operational demands.
With an unemployment rate exceeding 30%, world-class universities, and a favorable time zone aligned with both Europe and the US, South Africa offers a unique combination of talent and convenience. Over the past year, The Legends Agency has facilitated hiring for more than 150 British and US companies, reflecting a growing trend toward offshoring beyond traditional markets.
“Global companies initially approach us for the cost savings, but they stay for the outstanding talent and performance of their South African teams, who consistently exceed expectations,” said Anthony Kettle, SA CEO of The Legends Agency. Many firms report cost reductions of up to 50% by hiring South African employees.
Supporting this trend, a recent survey by recruitment agency Robert Walters showed 60% of business leaders rated South Africa as the most attractive offshoring location—surpassing established hubs like India, the Philippines, and Eastern Europe. Key reasons include access to skilled professionals (41%) and the retention of earnings (39%).
South Africa’s strengths extend beyond cost. The country boasts excellent English proficiency and a growing reputation in business and technology services. Tech and IT roles dominate offshoring activities, accounting for 53% of new hires, followed by finance and accounting (20%), customer service and support (18%), and HR and recruitment (9%).
Samantha-Jane Gravett of Robert Walters Africa noted, “We’re seeing a strong pipeline of international businesses establishing operations in South Africa – particularly in tech and support functions. South Africa offers an agile, highly capable workforce that aligns well with global business hours and standards.”
The global shift toward offshoring is expected to accelerate as digital transformation reshapes workforces and companies seek greater agility and efficiency. South Africa’s combination of talent, infrastructure, and business practices positions it as a strategic hub for global operations.
Beyond offshoring, some countries are actively recruiting South African professionals to work on-site. The Netherlands, facing shortages in healthcare and engineering, has seen its South African population nearly double from around 22,000 in 2018 to over 41,000 today. Other countries tapping South African talent include Ireland, Canada, the UAE, and Germany.
Nicholas Avramis, managing director of Beaver Recruitment SA, highlighted growing demand for healthcare professionals abroad: “The demand for South Africans is increasing, especially in healthcare sectors.”
With global businesses seeking to balance cost, skills, and operational efficiency, South Africa’s workforce is poised to play an increasingly vital role on the international stage.
