Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) are known for their resilience and adaptability, working across the globe to provide for their families back home. Hungary, a Central European country, has become an increasingly popular destination for OFWs seeking employment opportunities. While salaries in Hungary may not be as high as in other countries, many OFWs find the benefits and overall quality of life to be worthwhile.
This article, based on a YouTube vlog by Apple Laurencio, explores the salary of an OFW in Hungary and provides additional insights into the cost of living and benefits offered by employers.
Monthly Salary Overview for an OFW in Hungary
As mentioned above, this article is based on a vlog by Apple Laurencio. Click on the link below to watch the full video:
The vlogger, a factory worker in an automotive company in Hungary, shares her monthly earnings to give a realistic picture of what OFWs can expect in terms of salary. She earns 301,400.00 Hungarian Forints (HUF) for a typical 21-day work month, working 8 hours a day without overtime. When converted to Philippine Pesos (PHP) using the conversion rate of 0.15, this amounts to approximately 49,000 PHP. In another month, she earned 288,140.00 HUF, which is about 46,000 PHP. While these figures might seem modest compared to the salaries in other countries, there are significant benefits that make this salary more appealing.
Comparing Salaries and Benefits
One of the biggest advantages is that the vlogger does not have to pay for bills. Her accommodation and utilities are covered by the company, which is not always the case in other countries where OFWs may have to allocate a significant portion of their salary to living expenses. This benefit alone can save workers a considerable amount of money each month, allowing them to send more back home to their families or save for future investments.
In addition to free accommodation and utilities, the company also covers the placement fee and medical expenses. This is a considerable advantage as these costs can be quite high when working in other countries. For many OFWs, the financial burden of placement fees and medical examinations can be a significant obstacle to working abroad, so having these covered by the employer is a major benefit.
Meal Allowance and Additional Costs
The vlogger receives a meal allowance of 19,000 HUF per month, which is around 2,850 PHP. However, she notes that this allowance may not always be sufficient for the entire month, and she sometimes needs to add an extra 10,000 HUF (approximately 1,500 PHP) to cover her food expenses. Despite this, the allowance helps reduce her overall cost of living.
It’s also worth noting that the cost of living in Hungary is generally lower than in many Western European countries. Food, transportation, and other daily expenses are more affordable, allowing OFWs to stretch their salaries further. Careful budgeting and spending can help manage expenses effectively, making it possible for workers to save money and still enjoy a decent standard of living.
Job Stability and Salary Variations
The stability of the job and the salary can vary depending on the company and the department within which one works. The vlogger mentions that companies like Samsung SDI and Bolta tend to offer higher salaries and better opportunities for overtime. However, the automotive company where she works does not have as much overtime available, and there have been changes in management that have affected the overall work environment. This highlights the importance of researching potential employers and understanding the specific conditions and opportunities each company offers before committing to a job.
Premiums, Quotas, and Bonuses
In some departments, the nature of the work can influence the potential to earn more. If the process in a particular department is easy and allows for higher productivity, employees can earn premiums, meet quotas, and receive bonuses. This performance-based pay structure can significantly boost an OFW’s income, making the job more lucrative despite the base salary being relatively low. For instance, workers who are able to complete more tasks or work in departments with higher productivity demands can take advantage of these additional earnings opportunities.
Cost of Living in Hungary
While the salary might seem low, the cost of living in Hungary is generally affordable, especially with the benefits provided by employers. Here are some key points to consider:
- Housing and Utilities: With accommodation and utilities covered, OFWs can save a substantial portion of their salary. This is a significant advantage, as housing costs in many countries can consume a large part of an OFW’s earnings. Free accommodation allows workers to allocate their income to other essential expenses or savings.
- Food and Groceries: Although the meal allowance might not be sufficient for the entire month, food and groceries in Hungary are reasonably priced. The vlogger’s experience suggests that while the meal allowance helps, workers need to budget carefully to ensure they have enough to cover their food expenses. However, for those who can manage their spending well, it is possible to live comfortably without exceeding their budget.
- Transportation: Public transportation in Hungary is efficient and affordable, further reducing the cost of living for OFWs. The country has a well-developed public transport system that includes buses, trams, and trains, making it easy for workers to commute without spending a lot of money.
Challenges and Considerations
While there are many benefits to working in Hungary, there are also challenges that OFWs need to be aware of. Language barriers can be a significant hurdle, especially for those who do not speak Hungarian. Although many people in Hungary speak English, especially in larger cities and among younger generations, it is still beneficial for workers to learn some basic Hungarian to help with daily interactions and integration into the local community.
The salary of an OFW in Hungary, as illustrated by the vlogger’s experience, may not be as high as in other countries, but the overall benefits and lower living expenses make it a viable and attractive option for many. With free accommodation, utilities, and meal allowances, the net savings can be significant. Moreover, the potential for additional earnings through premiums, quotas, and bonuses offers a chance for increased income. For those considering working abroad, Hungary presents a balanced opportunity for financial stability and quality of life.