Common questions from Zimbabwean job seekers
Short replies to what readers in Zimbabwe ask most often. Each visa guide goes much deeper.
Is this only for Zimbabweans?
No. The writing is aimed at Zimbabwe, but each vacancy is open to any nationality whose skills and experience suit it.
What is meant by a sponsored job?
The employer backs your work visa. In Australia that is the Skills in Demand visa; in New Zealand it is the Accredited Employer Work Visa. Either way the employer is bound by government rules about pay and conditions.
Do I need to sit an English test?
For Australia you most likely do. The 482 exempts only passports from the UK, Canada, New Zealand, the US and the Republic of Ireland, and Zimbabwe is not one of them, so a recognised test is the normal route. New Zealand decides by the skill level of the job. Employers and registration bodies can add their own English conditions, so check the advert and the guide.
Does a ZIMSEC or HEXCO certificate carry weight overseas?
It supports your application, but it is never treated as automatically equal to an Australian or New Zealand licence, and your trade will probably be assessed again. In Australia certain occupations need a skills assessment (frequently through VETASSESS or Trades Recognition Australia) and some trades, electrical and plumbing among them, also need a state licence. In New Zealand some trades need occupational registration. The guides spell out which rule applies when.
I am registered as a nurse in Zimbabwe. May I start nursing on arrival?
Not on that registration alone. It does not carry across, so you must register with the nursing regulator in Australia or New Zealand first. The advert tells you what the employer expects.
Where do I get the police certificate?
From Zimbabwe you obtain a police clearance from the Criminal Record Office whenever a certificate is requested. Time spent living in other countries can add further certificates; see the visa guides for the rules.
Will I have to get papers translated?
Hardly ever, since official documents in Zimbabwe are usually in English. Certified copies may be requested, and anything written in a different language (Shona or Ndebele, say) needs a certified English translation.
What about a working holiday visa?
There is none for Zimbabwe right now: no working holiday arrangement exists with Australia or New Zealand. We list employer-sponsored vacancies, and each government’s website announces any change to the rules.
When could I realistically start work abroad?
It differs from person to person. Much depends on the country, your occupation, whether an assessment or registration is needed, and how quickly your paperwork is complete. Current official processing times are in the visa guides.
Can my relatives travel with me?
In most cases they can. Each visa has a route for partners and dependent children, under whatever rules are in place when you lodge.
Does it cost anything to apply?
No, applications through this site are free. Should anyone demand money for a job offer or a visa, refuse: paying for a job or for sponsorship breaks the rules in Australia and New Zealand and can lead to a refused visa.
How do I send an application?
Open the vacancy and press "Apply by email", or press "Ask on WhatsApp" if a question comes first. Add your CV and your certificates or registration details.