Find Out How to Get a Job and Work in Dar es Salaam

Employment in Dar es Salaam

Finding work in Dar es Salaam is made easier by the wide range of employers, with expats finding jobs anywhere from an embassy, healthcare facility, financial institution, sales role, commercial business or service company. Teachers have particularly good career options due to the number of international schools. Customer service managers will also find their skills in demand in the tourism industry. If you’re willing to travel from the city, there is even the option of working for a safari.

Local Economy

As the commercial capital of the country, Dar es Salaam is home to a wide range of businesses, including international companies. Most of Tanzania’s financial service industry, as well as law firms and consultancies, are based in Dar es Salaam, meaning there are a range of employment opportunities available. Education is also a large industry, with many English-speaking private schools and universities in the city, all offering excellent teaching to students and an international staff body.

The city is also the center of Tanzania’s transportation network, with port activity and harbor trade important to the local economy. In the past few years the construction boom has given way to a buoyant building industry. There are also many small businesses in downtown Dar es Salaam, which are run by independent traders, and small independent newspapers.

Job Hunting in Dar es Salaam

Recruitment agencies provide useful advice to workers job hunting in Dar es Salaam, and some agencies specialize in foreigners specifically. If job hunting from abroad it is useful to draw on the experience of recruitment agencies, which can also help with permit issues, visas and insurance, as well as negotiating the salary.

Teaching is a common professional for expats, with most schools offering teachers a good income. Working in an embassy is another popular career choice for expats, since most of international embassies are based in the center of Dar es Salaam, meaning it is possible to work close to housing. Tourism is another potential industry, particularly in the coastal areas.

Income Taxation in Dar es Salaam

Income tax is regulated by the Tanzania Revenue Authority, according to the Income Tax Act that came into effect in 2004. Residents in Dar es Salaam are taxed on worldwide income, which can be a disincentive to some expats if they have business interests outside of Tanzania.

The rate of tax depends on how employees are categorized. Earnings below 2,040,000 Tanzanian shillings are not taxed, regardless of the categorization. The tax year runs in line with the calendar year and the taxpayer is to pay over four installments. A final tax return musty be filed to the Tanzania Revenue Authority within six months of the end of the tax year. More details, as well as a registration details, are available the official government website.