Working in Ivory Coast

Primarily known as the world’s largest exporter of cocoa beans, Ivory Coast has the biggest economy in the West African Economic and Monetary Union – accounting for 40% of its total gross domestic product (GDP). Ivory Coast also has a high income per capita compared to other nations in West Africa, standing at $1,726 as of 2012.

Job Market

The current economy of Ivory Coast is undergoing continuous growth and stability. With an estimated labor force of 7.928 million, most of the Ivoirians are working in the Agriculture sector, which is also the main driving force and foundation of Ivory Coast’s economy. Agriculture is responsible for 28.2% of the country’s gross domestic product.

Foreign nationals who are interested in finding a job in Ivory Coast should at least have a working knowledge of French, the country’s official language. However, since Ivory Coast is largely market-based and dependent on the agriculture sector which employs about 68% of the total population, expats may find it quite a challenge to search for a professional job in the country. One industry that may offer employment in Ivory Coast for foreigners is English-teaching. 

Minimum Wage/Salary

The minimum wage in Ivory Coast varies depending on the occupation of an individual. However, the lowest minimum wage recently hiked by the Ivorian government by 60% now stands at 60,000 CFA Francs ($120) a month, from its previous rate of 36,600 CFA Francs ($75) a month.

Working Conditions

The standard work week in Ivory Coast is 40 hours a week or eight hours a day, Mondays to Fridays. Majority of the businesses and establishments in the country operate from 8AM to 5PM. 

Income Tax

All residents of Ivory Coast are subject to pay income taxes or “impôtsur le revenue”. The tax rate of the country is on a progressive scale, starting from 10% up to 60%. Below is a table showing tax rates that apply to wage income.