Lusaka - Post Report Question and Answers
What types of jobs do most expatriate spouses/partners have? Locally based or telecommuting? Full-time or part-time? Can you comment on local salary scales?
Lots is remote working EFMs with the help of Starlink. Local salaries are very low, don’t know of anyone working on the local economy. - Apr 2025
There are a number of international NGOs with offices in Lusaka. - Dec 2021
Many work in the school or in the embassy or have their own home businesses. - Nov 2017
The Embassy has quite a few jobs for EFMs, including several in USAID, PEPFAR, P/E, PAS, Consular, MGMT, and elsewhere. Local employment can be spotty, with most spouses working for international schools or NGOs. My spouse worked full-time at an international school (not AISL). Pay wasn't great, but the experience was good. - Jan 2017
Most Embassy spouses are able to get work at the Embassy or at the international schools. I have no knowledge of the local salary scale. - Jun 2016
There are good opportunities in public health, NGOs, and education. Other than that, many people telecommute. - May 2016
Work permits are necessary and obtainable. Pay is not commesurate with pay in the US. I know of expats locally hired with NGOs and schools, but not in local businesses. - Mar 2015
No. - Aug 2014
Many in the Embassy. Unknown out in town. - Jan 2014
I'd say yes - some. Particularly in development. - Jul 2010
VERY difficult to get work permit. - Mar 2009
No, absolutely not. Work permits are a nightmare as well. - Mar 2009
There are, but the Zambians are ridiculous on work permits. You never know if or when one will be issued. You need a work permit to volunteer. - Oct 2008
Yep, if you're flexible, good at networking and IF you can get a work permit. they are pretty tough about those, and I know several people who have been turned down for permits despite desperately needs skills (such as nursing). I'm working on the local economy as a vet without problem. - Aug 2008
Government of Zambia appears to be increasingly concerned about the number of expats holding NGO jobs. As a result, the work permit process can be a major hassle. - May 2008
