Djibouti's economy is based on its strategic geographic location. With limited natural resources, the main industries are related to the delivery and refueling of the transport entering the Red Sea. Regional partners play a key role in exports, as goods are then often shipped inland to Ethiopia.

Djibouti has faced social and political factors that have previously hindered development, but several industries are showing growth and offering good employment opportunities. The economy is driven by the Red Sea, and jobs for beginners and seniors are often related to exports and transportation. Taxes are fixed and lower than in other countries in the region. Health and education systems are underdeveloped, so access to private services is necessary. Security can be difficult, with high crime rates in cities, and it is important to follow employer advice when applying for jobs.

How do I come and get a job in Djibouti?

Emigrants who want to find work in Djibouti usually have to find a job before they arrive. When they arrive in the country, they can get an ID card by providing proof of a job offer, a copy of their passport, and four photographs. Individuals who do not have a job offer but want to start a business in the country must provide four passport-size photos, a copy of their passport, and information about their investments, as well as proof of funds.

How much each person has to pay for a visa and ID depends on the country from which he or she is coming. For example, those coming from other parts of Africa pay $196, while U.S. citizens pay $280. Since there is no fixed minimum wage in Djibouti, all wage agreements are made between the employer and his employee. Other requirements for those seeking work permits include proof of their yellow fever vaccination.

Filing and applying for a work visa requires painstakingly sorting out the nuances and specifics and being prepared for additional requirements as you go through the procedures. The experts at our website Visit World can help you with these nuances.

Types of visas and getting a work visa

Since there are few employment opportunities in Djibouti, expatriates usually get a job before the visa application process begins. Applicants should apply for a visa well in advance of their scheduled departure date, as processing can take several weeks depending on the country of residence.

Foreign nationals have several options for obtaining a visa to enter Djibouti, including business visas and tourist e-visas. Foreign workers will need three documents to live and work in Djibouti:

• Entry Visa.

• Residence permit.

• Work permit.

The residence permit acts as an identification card for foreign nationals. Foreign workers will need to obtain an entry visa before traveling to Djibouti. Visa requirements vary, but applicants will need a passport valid for at least six months after the scheduled departure date. The passport must also have at least two blank pages, and applicants must be vaccinated against yellow fever.

In addition to the entry visa, your employees will need to obtain a residence and work permit. The documents required for these permits include:

• copy of an employment contract with a company based in Djibouti;

• valid passport;

• long-term visa;

• 4 passport photos;

• copy of the license of the free zone company;

• a written request with details of the position and employer;

Job prospects in Djibouti

It is quite possible to find a job in Djibouti if you know English well, as a teacher or a translator. To be invited for a job, it is important to meet the criteria; qualifications and a lot of work experience. Then a decent job could be in logistics, transportation services, and maintenance. 

Taxation in Djibouti

  Taxes in Djibouti are set at fixed rates. About 15.7% of an employee's salary goes to their social security contributions, which are automatically deducted from their wages. Employees are expected to pay another 4% voluntarily. Corporate tax is a flat rate of 25% or 1% of the company's turnover, whichever is higher. In addition, there is a local garbage tax of 4.5% of an employee's salary, as well as a 7% VAT on some goods sold in the country.