San Jose - Post Report Question and Answers

What types of jobs do most expatriate spouses/partners have? Locally based or telecommuting? Full-time or part-time? Can you comment on local salary scales?

A lot of telecommuting and working in the Embassy; local salaries are quite low. - Sep 2020


Lots of different things, embassy work, and private community. Tons of expat schools here, NGOs , etc. - Jul 2018


Some jobs available within the embassy but any embassy spouse will know the issues involved there. Not much on the local economy. - Dec 2016


I think there may be opportunities for bilingual speakers. Some run small businesses. I think this Embassy has more EFM opportunities than most. - Apr 2014


Few & far between but possible. You must have a work permit, which the HR office at the embassy can help procure. There is a bi-lateral work agreement. If you are a professional (lawyer, doctor, accountant, etc.), work is also possible. - Jun 2013


Yes, plenty, although the salaries are not high. Around US$800/month. - Feb 2010


Teaching english will barely allow you to live, but if you just want to surf on the weekends and really live like a local, I guess you'll be okay. - Jul 2008


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