If you’re looking for job opportunities in Laos, there’s good news for you. In Laos, there are opportunities waiting for Filipinos, especially for professionals such as teachers, nurses, engineers, hotel staff, and consultants.
The economic relations between Laos and the Philippines are strong. In 2021, the Philippines exported $2.71M worth of goods to Laos, and Laos exported $11.9M worth of goods to the Philippines. The main products that the Philippines exported to Laos were Medical Instruments, Chemical Analysis Instruments, and Cigarette Paper.
Also Read: How to Become an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW)
In Laos, we have a Filipino community. As of 2013, there were approximately 730 Filipinos residing in Laos. So, if you’re planning to work in Laos, you won’t be alone.
Table of Contents
Requirements
According to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), Filipinos who wish to work abroad must have the following documents:
- Valid passport
- Valid visa or work permit
- Employment contract verified by the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) or authenticated by the Philippine Embassy
- Pre-departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS) certificate
- Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC)
- Pre-Employment Medical Examination (PEME) certificate
Additionally, some employers may require other documents such as:
- Birth certificate
- Transcript of records
- Diploma
- Certificate of training
- Professional license or board rating
- Certificate of employment
- NBI clearance
These documents may vary depending on the employer type and the nature of the job.
Qualifications
Here are the qualifications for Filipinos searching for jobs in Laos:
- Age: To work in Laos, a foreign worker must be at least twenty years old.
- Educational Attainment: The educational requirements can vary depending on the job. For instance, many foreigners make their living by offering private language classes.
- Experience: The level of experience required can also vary depending on the job. For example, for teaching positions, having prior teaching experience can be beneficial.
- Medical Aspect: A foreign worker must be in good health.
Please note that these are general qualifications, and the specific requirements may vary depending on the job and the employer.
Also Read: POEA Online Appointment for OFW Information Sheet
Important Steps
Laos is a landlocked country in Southeast Asia that offers a rich culture, a diverse landscape, and a friendly population. For Filipinos who are looking for a new adventure, Laos can be an attractive destination to work and live. However, finding a job in Laos as a foreigner is not as easy as it may seem. There are many challenges and requirements that need to be met before one can start working legally in Laos. In this article, we will guide you through the important steps in searching for jobs in Laos for Filipinos, from searching for jobs, , to applying for work visas and permits, to arrival in Laos.
I. Job Search
Are you a Filipino who wants to work in Laos? Laos is a beautiful country in Asia with many opportunities for foreigners. But finding a job in Laos is not easy. You need to follow some steps and prepare some documents. You also need to know where to look for jobs that suit your skills and interests. One of the best ways to search for jobs in Laos is to use online platforms or websites. These are places on the internet where you can see job postings from different employers in Laos. You can also apply for jobs online and communicate with the employers. In this article, we will show you how to use online platforms or websites to search for jobs in Laos for Filipinos.
MyWorldCareers
Here are the step-by-step instructions on how to search for jobs in Laos using the MyWorld Careers website:
1. Visit the Website: Open your web browser and go to MyWorld Careers (https://www.myworld-careers.com/jobs?source=google.com).
2. Select Location: Choose ‘Laos’ or ‘Vientiane’ from the location dropdown to filter jobs based in Laos.
3. Select Sector: If you’re looking for jobs in a specific sector, select the relevant sector from the ‘Business Sectors’ dropdown.
4. Review Job Listings: You’ll now see a list of jobs in Laos. Each job listing includes the job title, location, salary, and a brief description.
5. Apply for a Job: If you find a job that interests you, click on the ‘Apply Now’ button next to the job listing. You’ll be asked to attach your resume and write a cover letter.
6. Submit Application: After attaching your resume and writing your cover letter, click on the ‘Apply Now’ button to submit your application.
108jobs
Here are the steps to search for jobs in Laos using 108job:
1. Open your web browser and go to https://108.jobs/job-search.
2. If you choose to search by job function, enter the job title or keyword in the search box and click on the “Search” button.
3. If you choose to search by location, select the province from the dropdown list and click on the “Search” button.
4. You will be redirected to a new page with a list of job openings that match your search criteria.
5. Click on the job title to view the job description and requirements.
6. If you are interested in applying for the job, follow the instructions provided in the job description.
DMW Website
Here are the step-by-step instructions on how to search for jobs in Laos using the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) website:
1. Visit the Website: Open your web browser and go to the DMW website(https://www.dmw.gov.ph/approved-job-orders) .
2. Enter Jobsite: Enter ‘Laos’ in the search bar to filter jobs based in Laos.
3. Review Job Listings: You’ll now see a list of jobs in Laos. Each job listing includes the job title, location, and an agency.
4. Apply for a Job: If you find a job that interests you, contact the Department of Migrant Workers to check if the job post is legit and safe. If it is, ask them for instructions about the requirements and qualifications. If not, ask if there is an opening for the same job still based on Laos.
Hotline Numbers: 87221144 or 8722115
Email addresses: repat@dmw.gov.ph; connect@dmw.gov.ph; cacdac@dmw.gov.ph.
II. Getting a Work Permit and/or Work Visa to Laos
Laos is a landlocked country in Southeast Asia that offers a rich culture, natural beauty, and friendly people. It is also a developing country that has many opportunities for foreign workers who want to contribute to its economic growth and social development. If you are a Filipino citizen who is interested in working and living in Laos, you will need to obtain a work permit and work visa before you can enter the country. In this article, we will explain the types of visas, requirements, qualifications, and process on how to get a work permit and work visa for Laos.
Types of Visas for Laos
There are two main types of visas that foreigners can apply for when they want to work in Laos: an investor visa (NI-B2) and a labor visa (LA-B2).
- An investor visa (NI-B2) is for non-nationals who have an entity within the country and plan to perform investment activities. This may apply to you as an employer if you have a subsidiary, but you will need an enterprise registration certificate as proof. NI-B2 visas can allow for single entry or multiple entries. Multiple-entry permits last for three months, six months, or one year.
- A labor visa (LA-B2) is for non-nationals who wish to live and work in the country. Applicants must apply for these visas at a consulate before entering the country, and all LA-B2s allow multiple entries. These visas last for one month, three months, six months, or one year and can be renewed.
- Requirements for Work Visa
To apply for either an investor visa or a labor visa, you will need to meet the following requirements:
- Valid passport with at least six months remaining validity.
- An entry visa or visa exemption sticker.
- A copy of your passport photo.
- Proof of travel arrangements.
- Job offer from an employer in laos.
- Sponsorship letter from your employer in laos.
- Work permit issued by the ministry of labor and social welfare in laos.
- Proof of accommodation and employment in laos.
- Proof of financial means to support yourself in Laos.
Also Read: List of POEA Benefits Programs and Services for OFWs
Qualifications for Work Visa
To qualify for either an investor visa or a labor visa, you will need to meet the following qualifications:
- You must be at least 20 years old.
- You must have a clean personal history and be in good health.
- You must possess the necessary skills and qualifications for your job.
Process on How to Get Work Permit and Work Visa
The process on how to get a work permit and work visa involves the following steps:
1. Start by researching the requirements and qualifications for your desired type of visa. Make sure you meet all the criteria before applying.
2. Create a comprehensive application package that includes all the required documents mentioned above. Make sure they are original copies or certified translations if needed.
3. Make an appointment with the nearest Lao embassy or consulate in your country of residence to submit your application. Alternatively, you can also apply online through some websites that offer e-visa services.
4. Be prepared to answer questions about your travel plans, your reasons for wanting to work in Laos, your job offer from your employer in Laos, your sponsorship letter from your employer in Laos, your financial means to support yourself in Laos, your accommodation arrangements in Laos, etc.
5. Wait patiently while your application is processed by the Lao authorities. The processing time may vary depending on the type of visa, the volume of applications, etc., but it usually takes around 3 working days.
6. Once your application is approved by both countries involved (Lao Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Lao embassy or consulate, Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs, Philippine embassy or consulate), you will receive either an investor visa (NI-B2) or a labor visa (LA-B2) sticker on your passport that allows you to enter Laos within 30 days. Alternatively, you can also collect it at either a Lao consular post located in your country or at one of the Laos visa-on-arrival units.
III. Preparation for Going to Laos
Laos, officially known as the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, is a landlocked country in Southeast Asia. It shares borders with China, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, and Myanmar. The number of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who worked abroad during the period of April to September 2020 was estimated at 1.77 million. Despite many Filipina migrant workers having received higher education and working as skilled nurses, 58 out of 100 overseas Filipino women workers are categorized as laborers and unskilled workers compared to 13 out of 100 overseas Filipino male workers.
Language
The official language in Laos is Lao, also called Laotian. However, French and English are identified as minority languages in Laos. Fortunately, Laotians also understand English, although French is more commonly spoken since they were under French colonial rule from the early 19th century until 1945.
Do’s and Don’ts
In Laos, nobody directly addresses mistakes or apologizes for them. Drawing attention to an error—whether your own or a coworker’s—causes a loss of “face.” This concept is similar to self-respect and losing face is considered terribly humiliating.
Work Culture
Laos and Thailand share a laid-back “Isan” culture; in Laos, the “PDR” jokingly stands for “please don’t rush.”. Lao business culture is slow-paced but has a strong emphasis on punctuality.
Currency
The official currency of Laos is the Kip. However, other currencies like the US Dollar and Thai Baht are also commonly used. The conversion rate from Lao Kip to Philippine Peso is approximately 1 LAK = 0.0027149 PHP.
Clothing
Traditional costumes in Laos include the Lao sinh for women and the salong for men.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Laos is surprisingly high and is similar to neighboring Thailand. The average cost of living for an expat is around $1,000 to $1,500 per month, depending on lifestyle.
Accommodation
Accommodation in Laos is varied and there’s a wide range of options to suit every preference. The rental market for suitable expat accommodation in Laos is quite competitive. There are also Filipino guesthouses like the Bahay Pinoy Guest House in Rue Bourichane, which is about 15 meters from the Royal Thai Embassy.
Transportation
Public transportation in Laos includes buses, taxis, and tuk-tuks. The cost of transportation is relatively low, making it a convenient option for Filipino workers.
IV. Arrival in Laos
Airport Rules
Upon arrival in Laos, all international borders are open for foreign travelers. Visa exemptions, visas-on-arrival, and E-visas are in place. Private and public transport vehicles are allowed to enter and exit Laos.
Registration at Local
Opening a bank account in Laos is only allowed for foreigners with a business visa or work permit. The application for the Work Permit and SP must be registered by the employer, sponsoring the foreign applicant, within one month from the day of receiving authorization from the Lao MFA.
Bank Account
The official currency of Laos is the Kip. However, other currencies like the US Dollar and Thai Baht are also commonly used. If you wish to work in Laos, you need a work permit. Opening a bank account in Laos is only allowed for foreigners with a business visa or work permit.
Healthcare
The Laotian government currently has separate healthcare programs for different income groups: the State Authority for Social Security (SASS) for civil servants, the Social Security Office (SSO) for employees of state and private enterprises, the Community-based Health Insurance (CBHI) for informal-sector workers, the Health Equity Funds (HEFs) for the poor, and free maternal and child health services in selected provinces.
Video: WORKING VISA GRANTED IN LAOS || Bandongzki Official
The video presented three documents(passport, work permit card and stay permit card for foreign staff).
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about searching for jobs in Laos for Filipinos:
1. What economic sectors offer the most jobs in Laos?
The majority of the local population is employed in the spheres of foresting and agriculture. However, expats in Laos will have many other options to choose from, starting from education and ending with IT.
2. Can I be a language tutor in Laos?
Yes, many foreigners make their living by offering private language classes. Although English is in higher demand, there are many locals who are willing to learn other European languages together with a native speaker.
3. What are the job opportunities in Laos?
Teaching is observed as a promising career to opt for, specifically for expatriates. The average salary for an English teacher is between $500 to $1,000 US dollars.
4. What is the official currency of Laos?
The official currency of Laos is the Kip. However, other currencies like the US Dollar and Thai Baht are also commonly used.
5. What is the cost of living in Laos?
The cost of living in Laos is surprisingly high and is similar to neighboring Thailand. The average cost of living for an expat is around $1,000 to $1,500 per month, depending on lifestyle.
6. What are the accommodation options in Laos?
There’s a range of accommodation options in Laos, from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels. Many expats choose to rent houses or apartments. It’s common to negotiate the rental price.
7. What are the transportation options in Laos?
The most common forms of transportation in Laos are buses, tuk-tuks, and motorbikes. For long-distance travel, domestic flights and overnight buses are available.
Summary
Pursuing job opportunities in Laos can be a rewarding experience. Not only will you have the chance to immerse yourself in a new culture and environment, but you’ll also contribute to the country’s development. Remember, every new journey comes with its challenges, but with preparation and a positive mindset, you can overcome them.
Laos is a country rich in culture and history, and working there can provide a unique perspective and enrich your personal and professional life. Keep an open mind, be respectful of the local customs and traditions, and embrace the opportunity to learn and grow in a new environment.
Remember, the world is full of opportunities, and stepping out of your comfort zone is the first step towards success. Good luck on your journey to Laos! You’re embarking on an incredible adventure, and the experiences and memories you’ll gain will be invaluable.