Language:  

There are eleven official languages in South Africa: English however, is pervasive throughout the country and, in the major metropolitan areas at least, tourists and immigrants alike should have few problems.

Cost of Living:

Cost of living is relatively cheap and Johannesburg is rated as one of the cheapest major cities in the world; a quarter of that of a city such as Tokyo, for instance. A loaf of bread and a liter of milk from your local corner store, for example, will cost the equivalent of about $.60 and $.75 respectively. Although considered a third-world country, South Africa offers first-world luxury and amenities at a fraction of the cost available in other parts of the world

Visa and Work Permits:  

You will need a visa to work in South Africa. Owing to the high unemployment rate, permits to work in South Africa are issued to foreigners only when a particular job or type of job cannot be filled by a South African national.  Applications for work permits can be made in your home country or in South Africa; they’re initially granted for a maximum of a year but can be extended and they’re regarded as a kind of temporary residence permit. More information on visas can be found:
http://www.justlanded.com/english/south_africa/tools/just_landed_guide
/visas_permits/business_visas_work_permits

Job Searching:  

South Africa has an exceptionally high unemployment rate (over 40%) and a massive pool of unskilled laborers. Demand for skilled workers is high, though. You will, of course, need a valid work permit in order to find legal employment in the country. As is the case in other countries, the web and local newspapers are as good as any place to start your job search.

The most promising economic areas in South Africa are the IT sectors, telecommunications, security, healthcare, e-commerce, beauty products, pollution management technologies, tourism, infrastructure and finance. South Africa will continue to be an attractive choice for exports, foreign investment and joint ventures.

Cultural Differences:  

South Africans tend to dress very formally for work.   South Africans are very punctual, and South African business people make every effort to be on time for appointments.  The peace sign, formed by extending the index and middle fingers with the palm facing towards your body, is considered extremely rude in South Africa.

Money/Banking/Taxes:   

South Africa’s banking system is not only the most sophisticated in Africa but also the equal of that in many western countries. To open a bank account in South Africa you must be at least 18 and provide proof of identity, e.g. a passport and your address in South Africa (a utility bill usually suffices).  Temporary residents are taxed on remuneration accrued while in the country

Security and Safety:  

For complete safety and security information please refer to: http://www.travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1008.html