This is an island in between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean. A Caribbean paradise only a few meters south of Florida, it is the biggest Caribbean country and the westernmost island of the Greater Antilles. The beautiful country is home to tourists and a fast-growing economy. A hub of manufacturing and tobacco, foreigners thinking of working while living in this South American city should note that employees earn lesser than in most Mexican countries.
Are you considering relocating here for job opportunities? Or are you an expat looking for work while residing on the Island? Can you survive on an average salary of USD30 a month? If yes, then you are in luck, as this article provides information on getting a job in Cuba as an expat.
Job complexities in Cuba
Finding a job here as an expat can be very challenging. However, foreigners who are Spanish, Portuguese, and or English will find the job market simpler. Expats should be sure to land a job first before moving to the island, as it might be difficult to find work within the territory. The major disadvantage of working here is the low pay due to the currency difference. Despite this, foreigners still migrate here for job opportunities. Getting a high-level position in a local company located in Havana is not an easy task. Thus, it is highly recommended that foreigners looking to work here meet the requirements of the positions and be highly skilled.
Types of jobs available to expats
There are different forms of work ranging from remote working to physical work settings like full-time, part-time or hybrid. The other forms of work are contract-based, internships, freelancing, etc.
Getting a job in Cuba as an expat
There are several means of finding a job in the country as an expat but there are few opportunities available to foreigners, as a domestic employer can only employ those eligible to work here. If you are interested in knowing your eligibility, check out the conditions of employment for expats on the Ministry of work and social security’s website. There are tons of job openings in the tourism sector, as well as teaching in schools. Popular websites where one can find job vacancies are Infoempleo, Linkedin, Infojobs, Indeed, Glassdoor, et cetera. Note that employers can only hire a foreigner residing outside the shores if the position cannot be filled by a citizen or resident; this3 is3 a rare feat. It is advisable to find employment with international companies having branch offices here, rather than local organizations.
Language skill
It is relevant to note that languages are vital here, as it is not an English-speaking country. If you intend to land a job faster in the job market, learning to speak basic Spanish is important. This will not only help with the job application process but in one’s everyday relations with native citizens while living here. Expats who are native English speakers or have a TEFL certificate have a higher chance of getting jobs in the teaching field.
Work visa
To work here, an expat requires a work visa and permit. A permit is issued by the ministry of work and social security to foreigners in the country. The visa is normally issued for a short-term stay not exceeding two to three months.
Working hours in Cuba
Employees work for 35 to 40 hours a week, as per the employment law. The country does not have strict working hours; most businesses open by 9 am and close by 5 pm on weekdays, but noon on Saturdays. While Sundays are considered off days for all workers.
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