Is it extremely difficult for a foreigner to get a decent job in Jamaica?

Question

I have always wanted to move to Jamaica, but the one thing hindering my dream is the thought that I might not be able to get a job there because work from the locals/citizens is preferred. Am I right? Or is it possible that I could make a decent living in Jamaica even though I am American?

If the latter, then what vocations are booming over there? Medicine? Tourism?

Thanks so much for all your answers; they are greatly appreciated.

Answer 1

What r ur qualifications?

Answer 2

Jamaica has few good paying jobs for anybody, be they domestic or foreign.  Think about this very carefully before moving.  I suggest you take a trip there and look around.  Talk to some locals and see what you might be able to bring to the island.  But again, BE CAREFUL before you move there.

Answer 3

ALL countries have strict working visa restrictions to protect their job market for their own citizens.  to work in a foreign country, you usually  must have a highly needed skill and find an employer first.  You need to research the specific work visa requirements for Jamaica.  Have you visited Jamaica?  You also need to do that and get first-hand info about living there.

Answer 4

The real answer to your question depends on what you choose to do.

1. If you choose a vocation that would compete TOO MUCH with local skilled employees, you probably would not get a work permit easily unless you had particular knowledge or experience that would put you in a position to TEACH locals in that field.

2. Pay in Jamaica is generally lower, but if you are bringing a skill that is already highly available here, you probably WOULD NOT WANT to come here because the reduction in pay would probably be EVEN WORST in comparison to what you'd be paid in the USA.  

3. Sometimes simply having worked extensively in a larger, firstworld marketplace such is in the U.S. or U.K. is sufficient for you to make a unique contribution to the local employment market.