Work & Business

Zambia's formal job market for expats is concentrated in international development (UN agencies, World Bank, NGOs), mining (copper belt), agriculture, and increasingly technology. Employment permits are employer-sponsored, meaning you'll typically secure a job offer before arriving. The expat professional community in Lusaka is well-networked and collegial, making it relatively easy to build connections and find opportunities through word-of-mouth.

Zambia's low cost of living makes it attractive for remote workers, though internet reliability remains the biggest challenge. Lusaka's coworking spaces (BongoHive, Regus) provide more reliable connectivity than home offices, and Starlink is rapidly changing the game for remote workers across the country. There is no digital nomad visa, so remote workers typically use tourist visas or business visas for shorter stays.

Zambia has been improving its business environment, with the Zambia Development Agency (ZDA) actively encouraging foreign investment. Registering a company through PACRA (Patents and Companies Registration Agency) can be done in about 7–14 days. Key sectors for foreign investors include agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, and technology. However, be prepared for bureaucratic hurdles and build relationships with local partners.