Find Out How to Get a Job and Work in Guinea

Employment in Guinea

Economic Overview

Guinea is a country that is blessed with natural resources, significantly around a quarter of the world’s bauxite reserves, as well as iron, diamond, gold and uranium. There is also a great deal of agriculture and fishing in Guinea. Coffee exports also account for a great deal of the income for the country. There are many American companies involved in the mining industry throughout Guinea. There are also charcoal resources in Guinea that are used for energy within the country, though petroleum products are imported into the country. Hydro power also makes up some of Guinea’s energy sources. The growth of the economy has been affected by political unrest, but the infrastructure is improving throughout the country, and in the future this will allow for more economic growth as the infrastructure improves further.

Job Hunting in Guinea

There are not huge numbers of opportunities for expatriates across Guinea. The international involvement in the economy is still relatively limited, meaning there are very few professional jobs available for foreigners, particularly at international companies. Conakry is the most likely place to find a job. In order to find professional work in this country, contacting international companies directly is the best option, because even if they do not have any openings to suit your skills they may be able to consider you for the future, or even put in you in contact with other employers in the country. If you are interested in teaching English, these opportunities will not be available at schools in the country, and as there aren’t many universities, the jobs for expatriate English teachers are very limited. Most expatriates moving to Guinea will be moving with companies that they are already working for, and there are positions available for expatriates particularly in healthcare and childcare.

Work Permits for Guinea

In order to work in Guinea you will need to apply for a resident permit, which is a multiple entry visa that can last for up to one year, though some resident permits will not be granted for as long as a year. Once again, the requirements for the application will vary depending on nationality, but they will all need two passport photos and a passport with at least six months remaining validity. Some nationalities will require certain vaccinations, specifically for yellow fever. Nationalities of some countries will not be allowed to apply for a resident permit for Guinea. It is important to apply before you move out to Guinea — if you enter Guinea on a shorter term visa, you will not be able to apply for a resident permit from within the country.