Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is a landlocked country in southern Africa, bordered by South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, and Mozambique. The nation is known for its stunning natural attractions, including Victoria Falls and diverse wildlife reserves. The culture is rich with Shona and Ndebele traditions, reflected in art, music, and local customs. The economy has faced significant challenges in recent years, though tourism and agriculture remain important sectors. Life for expats typically centers around major cities like Harare and Bulawayo, where modern amenities exist alongside infrastructure constraints. The country offers a unique African experience with warm, welcoming communities and relatively low living costs for expatriates.

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Never worry about paying your medical bills out of pocket again. The innovative PassportCard allows for a stress-free experience for all expat families, remote travelers, and workers. With a 24/7 customer service and an outstanding customer base of over 2 Million clients, it will feel like medical care at home. Get up to 10% off on your policy now.
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Podcasts

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Episode 8: Jake Barber - The Expat Finance Expert Returns

Jake Barber, the Founder and CEO of SJB Global, is a life-long expat and an expert in expat finance. Over the course of Expat Exchange's nearly 30 years online, there are few people we have met with as much lived experience and professional acumen as Jake. We were thrilled to welcome him back to the show and look forward to having him on again!

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Episode 6: Jake Barber - Expat Finance Expert and Lifelong Expat

Jake Barber is an expat finance expert and the founder and principal of SJB Global. A lifelong expat currently living in Marbella, Spain, Jake has vast experience helping expats from the United States, the United Kingdom, and other countries manage their finances while living abroad. Get a primer on what you need to know both before and after you move abroad!

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Living in Zimbabwe

Visa & Residency

Obtaining a residency in Zimbabwe involves several steps and can be moderately challenging, depending on the type of visa and the applicant's circumstances. The most common types of residency visas for expats include the Temporary Employment Permit, Residence Permit, and Business Investor’s Permit. The Temporary Employment Permit is designed for individuals who have secured employment in Zimbabwe. Applicants must provide a contract of employment, a CV, qualifications, and a clearance letter from the Ministry of Labor. This permit is usually valid for one to two years and can be renewed. The Residence Permit is for those seeking permanent residency and is typically granted to individuals who have continuously lived in Zimbabwe for a certain number of years, have stable employment, or are married to a Zimbabwean citizen. Applicants must demonstrate their ability to support themselves financially and may be required to provide police clearance and medical certificates. The Business Investor’s Permit is for entrepreneurs and investors who plan to start or invest in a business in Zimbabwe. Applicants must submit a comprehensive business plan, proof of investment, and may need to meet a minimum investment threshold. Digital nomads often use the Tourist Visa or Business Visa for short stays. The Tourist Visa is usually valid for 30 days and can be extended for up to six months. The Business Visa is suitable for those who are conducting short-term business activities and is also valid for 30 days with possible extensions. The application process generally requires submitting the relevant forms, supporting documents, and paying the applicable fees. The complexity of the process can vary, with some applicants experiencing delays or requests for additional documentation. It is advisable to work with a local or a consultancy to navigate the process effectively. Applicants should also be prepared for possible changes in immigration policies, which can affect the ease of obtaining a residency visa.

Healthcare in Zimbabwe

The system in Zimbabwe is a mix of public and private healthcare services. The public healthcare system is underfunded and faces challenges such as shortages of medical supplies, equipment, and personnel. This has led to a decline in the quality of healthcare services provided in public hospitals and clinics. Private healthcare, on the other hand, offers better quality services but at a higher cost, making it less accessible to the majority of the population. Expats and digital nomads can access public healthcare, but it is recommended that they have private health insurance to ensure access to better facilities and care. The cost of healthcare varies widely between the public and private sectors, with private healthcare being significantly more expensive.

Cost of Living

Zimbabwe offers relatively low living costs compared to Western countries and many African nations. Housing varies significantly by location and quality, with rental apartments in Harare ranging from $300-800 USD monthly for modest accommodations to $1,500+ for upscale properties. Property purchases are considerably cheaper than in developed nations, though prices have fluctuated due to economic conditions. Daily expenses for groceries, utilities, and local services remain affordable, though imported goods carry premium prices.

Weather

Zimbabwe experiences a subtropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The rainy season runs from November to March, bringing warm temperatures and occasional heavy downpours, particularly in northern regions. The dry season from April to October features cooler temperatures, especially in winter months (June-August), with clear skies and comfortable daytime weather. Temperatures vary by altitude and region, ranging from mild in highland areas to hot in lowland zones.

Educational System in Zimbabwe

The educational system in Zimbabwe is structured in a 7-4-2 system, which includes seven years of primary education, four years of secondary education, and two years of advanced level education. Education in Zimbabwe is mandatory until the age of 16. Children typically start Grade 1 at the age of six, and they complete their primary education in Grade 7. The primary education curriculum covers basic skills in reading, writing, and mathematics, as well as subjects like environmental science, social studies, and local languages. After primary school, students proceed to secondary school, which is divided into two stages: 'O' Level (Form 1 to Form 4) and 'A' Level (Form 5 and Form 6). The 'O' Level stage culminates in the Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (ZIMSEC) Ordinary Level examinations, while the 'A' Level stage ends with the ZIMSEC Advanced Level examinations. These examinations are crucial for university entrance. The quality of education in Zimbabwe has historically been high, but it has faced challenges due to economic difficulties. Nevertheless, the country has a high literacy rate, and there are numerous public and private schools to choose from. Parents moving to Zimbabwe can expect a strong emphasis on academic achievement, with a curriculum that includes a mix of traditional subjects and preparation for higher education and the workforce.

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