Find Out How to Get a Job and Work in Mozambique

Employment in Mozambique

Economic Overview

Although the economy of Mozambique has recovered and has experienced significant levels of growth since the end of the Mozambican Civil War in 1992, it still remains one of the poorest countries in the world.

The vast majority of the people are employed in agriculture, forestry and fishing, which form around 20% of the county’s total exports, with fish, sugar, timber, nuts, and tobacco the main export products. The MOZAL aluminum smelter is another major source of export products, and has significantly increased the country’s export profits.

In 2012 vast reserves of natural gas were discovered in Mozambique, and many experts are predicting that this should improve the economy over the next few decades, whilst opening up new opportunities for expatriates and foreigners.

Expatriates working in Mozambique tend to be employed in senior positions in the natural gas and agricultural industries, and there is an increasing call for English teachers.

Work Permits for Mozambique

Expatriates wishing to work in Mozambique will need to obtain a work permit. The Mozambican work permit process is notoriously lengthy and can be difficult, so expatriates are advised to start the process as early as possible.

In order to obtain a permit to work in Mozambique you will need to apply first to the Provincial and Maputo City Delegations or the Employment Centers of the National Institute of Employment and Professional Training, and the Ministry of Labor.

Once they have approved the application, a work permit will be issued. The process will be much easier if you have already secured work in Mozambique, as your prospective employer can add weight to your application.

Mozambican work permits are valid for two years, and are renewable for a further two years after that. If you need to stay longer than this period, you will need to reapply at the end of the four years.

Taxation in Mozambique

Expatriates working in Mozambique will be required to pay income tax on their earnings. Mozambique has a progressive income taxation system, which means that the amount of income tax you pay will be calculated depending on your earnings in the given tax year; these rates start at 10% and are capped at 32%.

If you are a resident of Mozambique for more than 183 days in a year you pay tax on your worldwide income; if you are a resident for less than 183 days you pay tax on your Mozambican income only.

Expatriates living in Mozambique should also be aware that extra taxes for social security will be added on top of the income tax rate.