How to get a job as an expat in Fiji
An island paradise and a top destination for tourists, Fiji might be your dream spot if you want to live abroad as an expat. But it is important to realize that getting a job there might be a little challenging, so proper preparation is key.
To help you make your dream of a life in Fiji a reality, we’ve created the short guide below. Keep reading to learn about:
What kinds of jobs are available in Fiji?
One of Fiji’s main sectors is agriculture. But as an expat, you might opt to look for employment in the areas of tourism and hospitality, especially because this is such a popular destination for travelers.
Consider searching for employment opportunities in hotels and resorts, as well as in restaurants, clubs, bars, and other establishments that are designed to keep tourists happy and coming back for more.
Another option might be to get into the world of education. You might be able to land a job at a school in Fiji, teaching subjects like English, math, or science, for example.
You might even choose to look into businesses within industries like construction and engineering to see if you qualify for the type of work that they do. There might be businesses that are aiming to hire expats with specific skill sets in these fields.
How to find work as an expat in Fiji
Finding a great place to work as an expat in Fiji might be a little hard, particularly once you are already in the country. So you might want to start your job hunt before you make your big move, as doing so will give you more time, and it will likely be less stressful.
Here are a few methods that you can use to make your search easier and boost the odds of landing a job you’ll love:
- Search for recruitment agencies that are working on helping people find jobs in Fiji.
- Browse online job boards, such as South Pacific Employment, Learn4Good, and Careerjet.
- Use LinkedIn to network with individuals who are living and working in Fiji, and to find individuals who might be able to connect you with an employer who is interested in hiring you. Plus, the site is another great resource for job openings throughout Fiji.
- Research businesses that have offices in Fiji, and consider contacting them about job opportunities available to expats like you.
- If you are currently working for a business that has an office in Fiji, ask about the possibility of being transferred there.
What are the requirements to work in Fiji?
To work in Fiji as an expat for longer than a year, you will likely need a work permit for a non-citizen skilled contracted worker. A Short Term Work Permit is available to those who plan on working in Fiji for a year or less.
Once you have the right permit, it means that, as a non-citizen, you will be able to get a job from a local business, institution, or organization.
When you are ready to get your work permit, you will need to complete an application, as well as pay the appropriate fees. You will also need to provide other documents that might include:
- A copy of your passport
- Photos of yourself
- Your CV
- Medical report and police report
- A request letter from your employer
- Contract of employment
Although anyone is allowed to work in Fiji, you will likely only be able to get your work permit if you already have a job offer lined up. That’s why it is a good idea to start your job hunt as soon as possible if you are hoping to move to Fiji to live and work there for an extended period of time.
Then, at immigration clearance, you might need to provide several documents, too. Those might include a signed Arrival Card, an Approval Letter from the Department of Immigration, your passport, and your address in Fiji.
How to send earnings abroad when working in Fiji
What happens when you want to send money abroad while living and working in Fiji? Well, you could use a bank, but you’ll be hit with high margins and fees that can certainly take their toll on your wallet.
Instead, be savvy by sending your money online via OFX, an international money transfer service that you can trust. By simply using OFX, you can save money, and you can rest easy, knowing that your funds will arrive at their destination swiftly and securely.
Also, don’t forget to take advantage of the many resources, like market rate alerts and currency charts, that you can find on the OFX website. The more information you have, the more you can save when you need to move your funds from one account to another.
Working in paradise is possible in Fiji
With its pristine beaches, tropical climate, and one-of-a-kind vibe, Fiji might be just the place for you if you want to live somewhere that’s out of the ordinary. And with an understanding of the perks, and potential drawbacks, of working as an expat in Fiji, you can begin your next adventure while being prepared for what lies ahead.
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IMPORTANT: The contents of this blog do not constitute financial advice and are provided for general information purposes only without taking into account the investment objectives, financial situation and particular needs of any particular person. UKForex Limited (trading as “OFX”) and its affiliates make no recommendation as to the merits of any financial strategy or product referred to in the blog. OFX makes no warranty, express or implied, concerning the suitability, completeness, quality or exactness of the information and models provided in this blog.