Working in Honduras

Bordered by famous destinations such as Guatemala, El Salvador and Nicaragua is Honduras, the original banana republic. Despite the fact that nearly half of this country’s population lives in poverty, many still see it’s potential because of the government’s efforts in diversifying its economy. 

The Republic of Honduras is a nation blessed with abundant marine, forest and mineral resources which is why its economy its economy is mainly based on agriculture. The agriculture sector accounts for nearly 15% of the national Gross Domestic Product whereas coffee and bananas are the two primary export products. Other sources of income for Honduras are the gold, zinc, silver and lead mines that are privately owned. But despite being rich with natural resources, Honduras remains as one of the poorest countries in Latin America. Its unemployment rate is at 7.30%, and an estimated 1.2 million of its people are without jobs. The local government is now turning its attention to its tourism sector with the hope that it’ll bring Honduras back to its former glory. 

Shifting Gears from Agriculture to Tourism 

Its tourist infrastructure may be a far cry from its Latin American neighbours, but Honduras doesn't need to rely on the hard sell when it comes to attracting visitors. It performs on history, ecological highlights and vibrant entertainment. Top attractions range from the Mayan ruins at Copán and the colonial charm of Tegucigalpa, to the timeless ecological expanse of the Mosquito Coast and the annual carnival in La Ceiba. 

With a focus on their tourism industry, Hondurans welcome tourist interns who are willing to be trained and experience the wonders of tour guiding in the country's famous attractions from the archaeological ruins down to the beautiful beaches in Trujillo. Expatriates who are open to this kind of job are highly encouraged to join the training program if they want to move to this country. They will be given monthly perks including fully furnished flats for the entire training program. Their visas and subsequent renewals will be taken care of by authorities assigned to this program.

The Local Job Market 

An expatriate who speaks English fluently has a very big chance to work in Honduras. English, which is considered as a second language, is part of the Honduran school curriculum. There are currently vast opportunities for English teaching, as it is one of the most in-demand jobs in Honduras today. One can work anywhere in the region. The company or school willing to offer the teaching job is usually the one to arrange all the necessary papers. 

Volunteering jobs are also open in Honduras where there is a wide range of projects including childcare and conservation programs; and although these are not full-time jobs, many expatriates find them a perfect reason to enjoy the beauty and wonders of the nation. Expats who love the beach will find Honduras a perfect destination both for leisure and work. Anyone can freely enjoy and live right by a beautiful beach, either as a cook, bar attendant, receptionist, or resort attendant. 

Average Salary and Work Hours 

Normal working days are limited to eight hours 44 hours per week. In Honduras, minimum wages are set based on the industry and number of employees in a company. As of January 2016, the minimum wages ranged from HNL 5,860 or USD 240 to HNL 8,800 or USD 370 per month. 

How to Get a Job 

Getting a job in this country might never be a problem as most Honduran employers favour expatriate workers whom they believe to be highly skilled and experienced. There are local job candidates as well, but it has been a trend that foreigners have the advantage in most industries from education to tourism. 

Searching for job offers might be the more challenging part for expatriates because while there are many job offers on the Internet, one cannot secure a work visa nor enter the country as a worker without a formal job offer from a Honduran employer. However, in general, the Honduran job market is welcoming of locals and expats alike.