The Maldives, known for its stunning beaches and luxurious resorts, offers a variety of job opportunities for Filipinos. The country’s economy heavily relies on tourism, making Filipinos with experience in Marketing, Sales, Hospitality, and Tourism highly in-demand. There are also job openings for those with experience in healthcare, building maintenance, technician, mechanic, cooking, accounting, and culinary arts.
The economic relations between the Philippines and the Maldives are growing. The Asian Development Bank’s Country Partnership Strategy (2020–2024) supports the provision of a resilient and sustainable island life for all Maldivians. This partnership could open more doors for Filipinos in the future.
Also Read: List of POEA Benefits Programs and Services for OFWs
As of 2018, there were about 3,000 overseas Filipinos working in the Maldives. While the work conditions can be challenging, many Filipinos are drawn to the Maldives for its beauty and the opportunities it offers.
Table of Contents
Requirements
Here are the documentary requirements for Filipinos searching for jobs in Maldives:
- Valid Philippine Passport.
- Certificate of Employment.
- NBI Clearance.
- Birth/Marriage/Death Certificate, Certificate of No Marriage Record (CENOMAR, Advisory on Marriage and/or Negative Records).
- For Private/Local Colleges and Universities: Certified True Copies from the school and Certification, Authentication and Verification (CAV) from Commission on Higher Education (CHED).
- Professional Regulations Commission (PRC) document/s.
- Medical Certificate/s.
- A machine-readable (MRZ) Passport Bio-data page copy of the applicant (At least 1 Year validity).
- A valid Entry Pass not exceeding 90 days from the date of arrival.
- Traveler should provide the same passport mentioned in the Work Permit.
- Traveler Declaration, submitted within 96 hours prior to departure from the first port of embarkation. It has to be submitted electronically via IMUGA portal.
- Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate, if applicable.
Please note that these are general requirements and may vary depending on the specific job and employer. Always check with your prospective employer or recruitment agency for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Qualifications
Here are the general qualifications for Filipinos searching for jobs in Maldives:
- The age requirement can vary depending on the specific job and employer. However, most employers prefer applicants who are at least 21 years old.
- The educational requirement can also vary depending on the job. For example, jobs in healthcare may require a degree in a related field. For jobs in the hospitality industry, a high school diploma or equivalent may be sufficient.
- Most employers in Maldives prefer applicants with relevant work experience. For example, jobs in the hospitality and tourism industry often require experience in marketing, sales, or customer service.
- Applicants must be in good health and may be required to undergo a medical examination as part of the application process.
Also Read: How to Become an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW)
Important Steps
Are you considering a career move to the beautiful Maldives? If so, you’re in for an exciting journey! The Maldives, known for its stunning beaches and luxurious resorts, offers a wealth of job opportunities for Filipinos. But before you pack your bags, there are some important steps you need to take to ensure a successful job search. From understanding the job market to preparing the necessary documents, each step is crucial in landing your dream job in the Maldives. So, let’s get started on your journey to a new career adventure in the Maldives!
I. Job Search
Are you thinking about working in the beautiful Maldives? That’s a great idea! Nowadays, finding a job in the Maldives is easier than ever, thanks to online platforms and websites. These sites allow you to search for job openings, apply for jobs, and even get hired without leaving your home. So, grab your laptop or smartphone, and let’s start your job search journey in the Maldives! Here are some websites that you can check out:
WorkAbroad.ph
Here are the step-by-step instructions on how to search for jobs in Maldives using the WorkAbroad website:
1. Open your web browser and type in the URL: https://www.workabroad.ph/jobs/by-country.
2. Once the page loads, you will see a list of countries. Scroll down the list until you find ‘Maldives’. Click on it.
3. You will be redirected to a page that lists all the job openings in Maldives.
You can further refine your search by using the filters on the left side of the page. These filters include ‘Job Category’, ‘Job Position’, and ‘Agency’.
4. Click on a job title that interests you to view more details about the job, such as the job description, qualifications, and how to apply.
Expat.com
Here are the step-by-step instructions on how to search for jobs in Maldives using the Expat website:
1. Open your web browser and type in the URL: https://www.expat.com/en/jobs/asia/maldives/.
2. Once the page loads, you will see a list of job openings in Maldives.
3. Click on a job title that interests you to view more details about the job, such as the job description, qualifications, and how to apply.
DMW Website
Sure, here are the step-by-step instructions on how to search for jobs in Maldives using the Department of MIgrant Workers(DMW) website:
1. Open your web browser and type in the URL: https://www.dmw.gov.ph/approved-job-orders.
2. You can sort the jobs by ‘Country’, ‘Position’, ‘Agency’, ‘Date Approved’, or ‘Job Order Balance’ using the drop-down menu beside the search bar.
3. To find jobs in Maldives, type ‘Maldives’ into the ‘Country’ search bar and press enter.
4. The page will refresh and display a list of job openings in Maldives.
5. Copy a job title that interests you to and inquire more details about the job, such as the job description, qualifications, and how to apply to the Department of Migrant Workers. Contact them at: 8-722-11-44 / 8-722-11-55 | connect@poea.gov.ph | www.poea.gov.ph | facebook.com/poea.gov.ph ·
Note: Remember to prepare your CV and other necessary documents before applying. Good luck with your job search!
II. Getting a Work Permit and/or Work Visa to Maldives
Hello, Kabayan! If you’re considering working in the beautiful islands of Maldives, you’re in the right place. This article will guide you through the process of obtaining a work permit and work visa for Maldives as a Filipino citizen. Let’s get started!
Types of Visa
There are two main types of visas for Filipinos who wish to work in Maldives:
- Tourist Visa: This is granted to all nationalities upon arrival in Maldives, including Filipinos. It’s usually valid for a short stay of 30 days.
- Work Visa: This is a permit issued for foreigners to stay in Maldives for the purpose of employment. A person traveling to Maldives for employment will be granted 15 days from the date of arrival.
Requirements and Qualifications
To apply for a work visa, you need to meet the following requirements:
- A machine-readable (MRZ) Passport Bio-data page copy (Valid for at least 1 Year).
- A valid Entry Pass not exceeding 90 days from the date of arrival.
- Traveler Declaration, submitted within 96 hours prior to departure from the first port of embarkation. It has to be submitted electronically via IMUGA portal.
- Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate, if applicable.
- Passport size photo (Photo shall comply with Maldives Immigration passport photo standard and must be a recent photo).
- Medical health screening report of the employee issued from a Hospital/Clinic authorized by the relevant government authority, if required.
Process on How to Get a Work Permit and Work Visa
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get a work permit and work visa for Maldives:
- Obtain a Work Permit: This is usually sponsored by your employer and issued by the Ministry of Economic Development of Maldives. The work permit should not exceed 90 days from the date of issue.
- Apply for a Work Visa: Once you have a valid work permit, you can apply for a work visa. The application can be submitted by the employer or a representative of the employer.
- Processing Time: The visa will be processed within 48 hours of submission. Once the application is processed, you can request for an online appointment to submit the passport(s) for a visa.
- Visa Collection: The visa process will take 3 working days and you will be notified when the passport is ready for collection.
Remember, it’s important to ensure that you have a valid work permit when re-entering the Maldives.
III. Preparation for Going to Maldives
General Information
The Maldives is a tropical paradise in the Indian Ocean, known for its stunning white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, abundant marine life, and beautiful coral reefs. As of 2018, there were about 3,000 overseas Filipinos working in the Maldives, mainly as expatriates and migrant workers.
Language
The official language of the Maldives is Dhivehi, but English is widely spoken due to the country’s thriving tourism industry. Filipinos working in the Maldives typically communicate in English or Tagalog.
Do’s and Don’ts
When in the Maldives, it’s important to respect local customs and laws. Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon. Importing alcohol is prohibited, and bikinis are only allowed on resort islands. Drinking tap water is not recommended. It’s also important to be mindful of the environment and use reef-safe sunscreen.
Work Culture
The standard work week in the Maldives is 48 hours, from Sunday to Thursday. However, some Filipino workers have reported unjust working conditions, including non-payment of wages and lack of substantial food and potable water. It’s crucial to understand your rights and obligations under an employment agreement.
Currency
The official currency of the Maldives is the Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR). The approximate exchange rate is 15 Rufiyaa for 1 US dollar. Major currencies like the US dollar are not typically accepted outside of tourist establishments, airports, or hotels.
Clothing
The Maldives has a tropical climate, so lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended. When visiting inhabited islands, it’s important to dress modestly out of respect for local customs.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in the Maldives is higher compared to the Philippines. A single person’s estimated monthly costs are around 791.6$ (12,189.2 Rufiyaa) without rent.
Accommodation
Accommodation in the Maldives can be expensive²². It’s advisable to negotiate with your employer for reasonable accommodation²². There are also properties available for stay in the Maldives¹⁸.
Transportation
Air travel is the primary mode of transportation within the Maldives, with Velana International Airport serving as the main gateway. For inter-island travel, speedboats and ferries are commonly used.
IV. Arrival in Maldives
Welcome to the Maldives, Kabayan! This guide will help you navigate through the initial steps you need to take upon your arrival in this tropical paradise.
Airport Rules
Upon arrival at the Velana International Airport, you’ll need to complete a Traveler Declaration form within 96 hours prior to your flight time. It’s important to note that as of March 13th, 2022, a PCR test is not mandatory to enter the Maldives. A representative from your hotel will be at the airport to assist you with the domestic flight or transfer to your hotel.
Registration at Local
Filipinos hired directly by a foreign employer must complete the POEA direct hire requirements to secure an overseas employment certificate (OEC) before they leave the Philippines. The OEC application process for direct-hire OFWs differs from that of agency-hired workers. It’s crucial to understand your rights and obligations under an employment agreement.
Bank Account
If you plan to live, work, or do business in the Maldives, you will need a bank account. The Maldivian expats also opt for private or international health insurance, which is cost-effective and includes air evacuation and transportation services. It’s generally recommended that expats get health care insurance to cover the entire length of your stay.
Healthcare
All citizens of the Maldives are entitled to annual medical coverage in the amount of US$6,500 sponsored by the government. The same applies to foreigners working legally in the country – your employer will need to pay an upfront fee to apply for medical coverage for their expat staff. It’s strongly advised that expatriates purchase private health care insurance including emergency evacuation services.
Also Read: How to Book OFW Records Appointment Online
Video: Jobs in Maldives and basic things you need to know (for filipinos) – YouTube
Here’s a video sharing what the Mace Morales thinks you should know before deciding to work in the Maldives. It includes information about the cost of living in the Maldives, salary, benefits, food, transportation, etc. She hopes it can help in some way for people who want to find a job in the Maldives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are 10 frequently asked questions about searching for jobs in Maldives for Filipinos, along with their answers:
1. What types of jobs are available for Filipinos in the Maldives?
Filipinos with work experience in Marketing, Sales, Hospitality, and Tourism are highly in-demand in the Maldives. There are also job openings for healthcare professionals, building maintenance staff, technicians, mechanics, cooks, accountants, and chefs.
2. What is the official language of the Maldives?
The official language of the Maldives is Dhivehi, but English is widely spoken due to the country’s thriving tourism industry.
3. What are the work conditions like in the Maldives for Filipinos?
The standard work week in the Maldives is 48 hours, from Sunday to Thursday. However, some Filipino workers have reported unjust working conditions, including non-payment of wages and lack of substantial food and potable water.
4. What is the cost of living in the Maldives?
The cost of living in the Maldives is higher compared to the Philippines. A single person’s estimated monthly costs are around 791.6$ (12,189.2 Rufiyaa) without rent.
5. What is the currency of the Maldives?
The official currency of the Maldives is the Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR). The approximate exchange rate is 15 Rufiyaa for 1 US dollar.
6. What is the healthcare system like in the Maldives?
All citizens of the Maldives are entitled to annual medical coverage in the amount of US$6,500 sponsored by the government. The same applies to foreigners working legally in the country.
7. What are the rules at the airport upon arrival in the Maldives?
Upon arrival at the Velana International Airport, you’ll need to complete a Traveler Declaration form within 96 hours prior to your flight time.
8. What is the process for getting a work permit and work visa in the Maldives?
The work permit is usually sponsored by your employer and issued by the Ministry of Economic Development of Maldives. Once you have a valid work permit, you can apply for a work visa.
9. What is the dress code in the Maldives?
Given the tropical climate, light and breathable clothing is recommended. When visiting inhabited islands, it’s important to dress modestly out of respect for local customs.
10. What is the transportation system like in the Maldives?
Air travel is the primary mode of transportation within the Maldives, with Velana International Airport serving as the main gateway. For inter-island travel, speedboats and ferries are commonly used.
Summary
Pursuing job opportunities in the Maldives can be an exciting and rewarding experience. The country’s thriving tourism industry offers a wealth of opportunities, particularly for those with skills in hospitality and customer service.
Living and working in the Maldives also gives you the chance to experience a unique culture and lifestyle, surrounded by stunning natural beauty. However, it’s important to do thorough research and understand the cost of living, work conditions, and local customs before making the move.
Remember, every journey begins with a single step. If you’re passionate about working in the Maldives, don’t let anything hold you back. Prepare well, stay positive, and seize the opportunities that come your way. Good luck, Kabayan!