How to find work in the country
You can find work in Abkhazia either through an agency or on your own. In any of the methods, it is important to follow a clear algorithm:
- Learn the state language.
In this case, it is easier for Russians: Russian is the second official language in the country, along with Abkhazian. To get a well-paid job, knowledge of English will also be an advantage.
- Select a field of activity.
The type of occupation depends on the purpose of the move - travel, experience or career growth. Looking for a job is easier if you know what exactly you want.
- Create resume.
In many companies, the first stage of employee selection is to study it: the more detailed and objective, the better. Although they don’t like to read a multi-page format.
- Complete the documents.
For legal employment you will need a visa and work permit.
Internet sites
There are several portals where vacancies in Abkhazia are regularly posted. Here's the main list:
- “Abkhaz-work” (https://abkhaz-rabota.ru/vacancy).
- “Abho” (https://www.abho.ru/board/rabota/vakansii/14).
- VKontakte group “AbkhazInfor” (https://vk.com/abkhazinfo).
All sites are in Russian. True, the range of vacancies presented is limited - from maids to waiters. It is extremely difficult to find other offers.
Employment agencies
Russian and foreign recruiting organizations offer assistance in finding jobs for foreigners. Typically the fee is charged to both the applicant and the employer submitting the application. The main thing is not to make a mistake when choosing an agency. There are frequent cases of deception and fraud.
Media announcements
Sometimes interesting vacancies can be found in Russian or Abkhaz media. This is especially true for online newspapers and television. Typically, the media offer job seekers jobs in cars, hotels or restaurants; less often, more prestigious and highly paid positions come across. Job openings in a specialty can usually be found by contacting the employer directly or by getting a resume approved for a good occupation.
Regions and cities are the best for employment of citizens of the Russian Federation and other foreigners
The maximum number of vacancies for compatriots and people from the CIS countries is offered in the capital of the Republic of Armenia, as well as the cities of Gudauta and Gagra. But reviews from job seekers indicate that high-paying jobs in Sukhumi are not for everyone. In the capital of the republic, those who have not only received a higher education diploma and work experience, but also have positive recommendations from several employers have a high chance of employment. In Gagra, Gudauta, Pitsunda, Tsandripsha and New Athos, specialists in the field of tourism (guides, translators, managers), as well as service personnel for hotels and boarding houses, are constantly required. Fixture workers, welders, masons, concrete workers from the former CIS countries periodically come to the Republic of Armenia on shifts to build hotels and repair destroyed hospitals and schools.
A certain percentage of Russians earn money by defending the sovereignty of the republic by finding employment in Abkhazia for military service under a contract. Civilian soldiers receive a substantial salary in the army. Budget expenditures for the army are gradually increasing. Compatriots willingly agree to work in the border troops.
Many job seekers come to the Republic of Armenia to work exclusively during the tourist season. Local employers willingly employ Russian students as animators, waiters, and bartenders. Ukrainians and Belarusians agree to temporary work harvesting crops (tangerines, figs).
In the provincial regions of the republic, the unemployment rate is quite high. In rural areas, the main source of income for indigenous people is subsistence farming.
Professions in demand
Job offers in Abkhazia for Russians in 2021 among highly qualified specialists, just as in any country, attract the level of income. For successful employment, you must be an expert in your field.
As was the case several years ago, vacancies are not limited to vacancies for service personnel: work as a cook in Abkhazia, as a waiter or as a hotel administrator.
With sufficient education and experience, Russians can find positions in the following areas:
- Construction and architecture.
- Information Technology.
- Education.
- Communications and media.
Read also: How to obtain citizenship of Abakhzia Who lives in Abkhazia
The demand for these particular industries is connected with the preferences of Abkhazians to develop in these directions. When moving to the country, young people often choose contract service in Abkhazia. This gives them a chance to get comfortable in a new environment and subsequently obtain a residence permit.
In-demand vacancies
Specialists in the following fields are considered especially in demand in Abkhazia in 2021, as was the case several years ago:
- Information Technology.
- Communications.
- Construction.
A qualified engineer and talented chemist will always find a good job and be able to put their abilities to use. The demand for these specialists is explained by the fact that young Abkhazians themselves prefer to work in the field of law or economics. Agriculture continues to be one of the most pressing problems of Abkhazia in 2021. There are few qualified specialists among Abkhazians, so the country's authorities are always happy to have good personnel from Russia and other countries.
Type of employment
Abkhaz employers offer not only a permanent schedule, but also temporary employment, for example, for 2 months or the whole summer. Typically, such offers are relevant for students or simply guests of the country.
Seasonal work
With the beginning of the holiday period, seasonal work appears in Abkhazia. Typically, proposals are accepted by students and citizens without specialized education.
Summer work options in 2021:
- teachers in children's centers or camps;
- attraction operators;
- food production employees;
- maids and waiters;
- tangerine pickers.
At the same time, employers offer decent salaries and often free accommodation. In addition, you do not need an official permit to work during the summer.
Volunteering
The Abkhazian authorities annually oversee volunteer programs for foreigners. There is usually no payment for such activities. However, this includes food, accommodation, excursions and, of course, volunteer work. Volunteers work in community centers, in fields and in nature.
Long term work
To obtain a permanent position in the country, you will need a permit for permanent residence in Abkhazia. With an official invitation from an employer, problems with visas for residence and employment practically do not arise. Often tourists who are already planning to return for a longer acquaintance, in advance, before arriving on a work visa, enter into an agreement with local entrepreneurs.
Video: life in Abkhazia
Border Service
According to the agreement concluded in 2009 between Russia and Abkhazia, the border with Georgia is protected by the Armed Forces of the Russian Ministry of Defense. Thus, this is another way for our citizens to find work. The outposts, located near the border with Georgia, have on their territory newly built housing for both military personnel and members of their families with the necessary level of comfort.
Types of employment
The easiest option for employment in Abkhazia is in the field of tourism and catering. In addition, the republic is known for its agriculture, a large number of orchards and vineyards, which also require workers.
Seasonal work
In the summer, tens of thousands of Russian tourists come to the republic on vacation. Therefore, already in May-June additional vacancies appear in Abkhazia. If a person needs a job in Sukhum, he can find it in the following areas:
- maintenance of attractions;
- off-site retail on the embankment;
- in summer cafes and restaurants - waiter/bartender;
- in a hotel/camp site - a maid.
In addition, every year in the fall the republic carries out fruit picking (tangerines, lemons, etc.). Often not only locals, but also visitors are involved in this work. The advantage of this type of income is weekly pay, free accommodation and food.
Volunteering in the country
Citizens who want to help the authorities of Abkhazia in the implementation of socially significant projects can apply to participate in the volunteer program. There is no payment for such work, but the organizers will cover food and accommodation. For many, this is a great way to change their usual environment.
Long term work
Finding a high-paying job in Abkhazia is not easy. The greatest chances here are for qualified builders and specialists in related fields. There are a lot of residential buildings being built in Sukhumi and its environs, so electricians, tilers, and masons are always in demand here. In Abkhazia there is a high demand for specialists in the gas sector, auto mechanics and other working specialties.
Conditions and remuneration
The standard of living in the country is lower than in many regions of the Russian Federation. As a result, it becomes difficult to find a high-paying job. This is why migrants often travel out of the country rather than into it. If we return to qualifications, some specialists can still count on decent remuneration.
average salary
Over the past decade, the Russian government has allocated resources several times to help raise salaries. The average salary in Abkhazia for civil servants is 10,000 RUB, and for the private sector - about 20-30,000 RUB.
Tax system
Working foreigners are obliged to pay the following deductions:
- VAT – flat rate 10%;
- income tax – 10%.
The fiscal percentage is lower than in Russia, but so are salaries. Individual entrepreneurs and large businessmen, including visitors, pay higher rates.
Economic situation in the country
Despite the fact that the war in the republic ended more than 25 years ago, its transport, industrial and recreational infrastructure has not been fully restored compared to the Soviet period. This is reflected in the labor market and the general standard of living of the population.
Many residents of Abkhazia themselves go to work in Russian megacities. Therefore, the question of whether Russian citizens can find work in this country should be considered controversial. Finding suitable vacancies in Abkhazia is quite possible, but the level of salaries in the republic leaves much to be desired. Most residents can count on monthly earnings in the region of 10-15 thousand rubles. Salary above 20,000 rubles. considered very decent.
Features of legal employment
To work in Abkhazia with residence, you must have an official place and obtain a special permit issued by the Republican State Migration Service.
If we talk about how life is for Russians in Abkhazia, then we can confidently say that it is easier than in many European countries. If only because Russian is considered the official language. Education at schools and universities is also available, which makes moving significantly easier.
Work permit
To obtain a visa you will need to collect and provide a package of documents:
- signed application;
- medical certificate;
- Russian and foreign passport;
- 4 standard size photos;
- diploma of education;
- employment history;
- receipt of payment of state duty.
The application is considered and a decision is made within 30 calendar days. During this period, the applicant can legally reside in the territory of the state.
Do I need a work visa?
Abkhazia is considered an open country, with short-term entry into which no permit is required. However, if you decide to work for a long term and on an official basis, you will still have to purchase a work visa.
How to obtain a work permit in Abkhazia
Citizens who come to work in Abkhazia have the opportunity to work on the territory of the republic only after receiving a work permit. Such permission can be obtained from the State Migration Service of the Republic of Abkhazia.
As soon as a foreign citizen provides a complete package of documents to the State Migration Service, he is given a document that confirms the acceptance of the application. According to the law, a citizen who comes to work in Abkhazia can engage in labor activity for a month until he receives the necessary permit for legal work.
It is worth paying special attention to the fact that permission may not be obtained if you provide false information about yourself.
Required documents
List of documents submitted when obtaining work permits for foreign citizens and LBG who arrived in the Republic of Abkhazia for the purpose of carrying out work activities.
- Statement of the established form. (Appendix No. 4)
- An identity document, passport validity must exceed the requested period of work (if the passport contains data in a foreign language, it is necessary to provide an official translation legalized in the territory of the Republic of Armenia); + 1 copy
- Document on registration at the place of residence;
- Work visa (for foreign citizens who arrived in the Republic of Armenia in a manner requiring a visa); Foreign citizens who arrive in the Republic of Armenia in a manner that does not require a visa are issued a patent; in this case, a work visa is not required.
- Medical report on the health status of a foreign citizen or stateless person;
- An employment contract or a civil contract for the performance of work;
- Photograph (3x4), color on matte paper, 3 copies;
- A copy of a document on professional education, qualifications obtained by foreign workers in a foreign country or a certificate of equivalence of such a document to an Abkhaz diploma (certificate) of professional education.
- Receipt of payment of the state fee for issuing a work permit. Account 40101810300000000082+ 2 copies.
Reviews
Valery and Anna:
We, a Russian family, have been living here for almost three years, in the village. And it must be said that more than half of the locals are Russian citizens. Many have come here a long time ago, and almost no one has encountered problems of misunderstanding with residents and authorities. The climate here is truly heavenly, especially in the summer. Although we are used to this in Russia. The only problems are with work. She simply doesn't exist. The majority of the population, including us, lives on their own farms. Almost everyone here has gardens with tangerines and other fruits. In fact, it brings in a good income. In the family, it is the husband who works by invitation - as the head of a construction company. This is the only reason we can financially live here.
Employment of Russians
The RA authorities prohibit the registration of foreign applicants as employees who have not previously obtained a work permit. When concluding an employment contract, a Russian will be required to:
- passport;
- patent;
- document confirming qualifications;
- military ID;
- work book.
The agreement between the employee and the employer may be temporary or may not have a specific period of validity.
The procedure for paying wages and the procedure for insuring employees in Abkhazia and Russia are identical.
Foreign subordinates in the Republic of Armenia pay an income tax of 10% to the treasury. The employer reimburses housing rental expenses solely on his own initiative. In 90% of cases, men working in Abkhazia on the construction of various projects can count on such a preference.
Search for cheap flights and hotels
To rent a budget hotel in Abkhazia, you should analyze in detail the offers on specialized sites:
- https://abkhazia1.ru/3-gostinitsy.html;
- https://www.booking.com.
Cheap air tickets to Abkhazia are sold several weeks before the departure date. They can be ordered on the website https://www.kupibilet.ru. Trips to the Republic of Armenia will be budget-friendly if you plan them in accordance with the low-price calendar. This option is used by online resources that not only offer to purchase air tickets, but also book a hotel.