Millions of people are employed in the logistics industry worldwide. That’s because driving plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth flow of goods and services. Therefore, OFW drivers are always in demand. If you are a Filipino with work experience in driving, then you are highly employable anywhere in the world to keep homes and businesses running.
Despite common misconceptions, a career in driving offers a wealth of opportunities. These include freedom, job security and the chance to travel while earning good salary. Working as an OFW driver, you can be flexible with your time, do various tasks, and grow personally. Let’s look into the top countries where Filipino drivers can thrive.
Best Driving Jobs for OFWs Abroad
Before diving into the 10 best countries for OFWs, let’s look at some of the options you might consider as a driver:
- Delivery Driver: Join companies like Amazon, UPS, or work with food delivery platforms such as DoorDash or Uber Eats.
- Truck Driver: Take on long-haul or local trucking roles, transporting goods across regions for various businesses.
- Bus Driver: Operate vehicles for public transit systems, schools, or private charter services.
- Taxi or Rideshare Driver: Partner with platforms like Uber or Lyft to provide transportation services.
- Chauffeur: Drive luxury vehicles for private clients, companies, or hospitality establishments.
- Driving Instructor: Teach individuals how to drive; additional certification may be required.
- Courier: Deliver documents and parcels for businesses or individuals.
- Emergency Vehicle Driver: Operate ambulances or fire vehicles; specialized training is typically needed.
- Test Driver: Work with automotive companies to test vehicles, often requiring advanced driving skills.
- Fleet Driver: Handle company vehicles for tasks such as transport or maintenance logistics.
Here’s a list of top countries for OFWs who want to work as drivers overseas, based on demand, competitive salaries, and ease of application:
1. Saudi Arabia
- Why it’s popular: Saudi Arabia has long been a top destination for OFWs, particularly in the transportation sector. The country offers lots of opportunities for drivers, including heavy equipment operators, bus drivers, and personal chauffeurs.
- Salary Range: SAR 1,500–3,000 (PHP 22,000–44,000) per month, depending on experience and type of vehicle.
- Benefits:
- Free accommodation and transportation.
- Tax-free income.
- Opportunities for overtime pay.
2. United Arab Emirates (UAE)
- Why it’s popular: Cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi are known for their thriving transportation sector. They are specifically looking for skilled drivers for taxis, buses, and delivery services.
- Salary Range: AED 2,000–4,000 (PHP 30,000–60,000) per month.
- Benefits:
- Free accommodation or housing allowance.
- Opportunities for tips (especially for taxi drivers).
- Work-life balance for some roles.
3. Qatar
- Why it’s popular: Qatar is growing rapidly and is housing many major international events. As a result, the country has an ongoing demand for professional drivers.
- Salary Range: QAR 1,800–3,500 (PHP 27,000–53,000) per month.
- Benefits:
- Free lodging and transportation allowances.
- Tax-free salary.
- Access to world-class healthcare for employees.
4. Canada
- Why it’s popular: Canada consistently seeks skilled workers, including truck drivers and delivery personnel, due to its vast geography and growing logistics industry.
- Salary Range: CAD 3,000–5,000 (PHP 123,000–205,000) per month.
- Benefits:
- Pathway to permanent residency.
- Comprehensive health benefits.
- Opportunities for family sponsorship.
5. Australia
- Why it’s popular: Australia has a demand for heavy vehicle drivers, particularly in mining, construction, and logistics sectors.
- Salary Range: AUD 4,000–6,000 (PHP 145,000–220,000) per month.
- Benefits:
- High pay rates and overtime opportunities.
- Work-life balance.
- Permanent residency opportunities.
6. Kuwait
- Why it’s popular: With a growing expatriate community and businesses, Kuwait requires drivers for personal, commercial, and industrial purposes.
- Salary Range: KWD 250–400 (PHP 45,000–72,000) per month.
- Benefits:
- Low cost of living for expatriates.
- Free accommodation and food allowances.
- Secure working environment.
7. Japan
- Why it’s popular: Japan offers unique opportunities for skilled drivers, particularly bus drivers and heavy equipment operators, as it aims to attract foreign workers under its “Specified Skilled Worker” visa.
- Salary Range: JPY 180,000–250,000 (PHP 70,000–100,000) per month.
- Benefits:
- Stable long-term employment.
- High regard for work ethics.
- Opportunities to learn Japanese and immerse in their culture.
8. New Zealand
- Why it’s popular: The country has an ongoing demand for truck drivers, particularly in agriculture and logistics.
- Salary Range: NZD 4,000–6,000 (PHP 130,000–200,000) per month.
- Benefits:
- Family-friendly work culture.
- Pathways to residency.
- Competitive salaries with allowances.
9. Oman
- Why it’s popular: Oman has a growing demand for drivers, particularly for heavy vehicles and construction equipment, due to its infrastructure development.
- Salary Range: OMR 200–350 (PHP 29,000–50,000) per month.
- Benefits:
- Free accommodation and food allowances.
- Tax-free income.
- Friendly expatriate community.
10. United States
- Why it’s popular: The U.S. has a growing logistics and transportation industry that regularly seeks CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) holders, particularly for long-haul trucking.
- Salary Range: USD 3,000–5,000 (PHP 170,000–280,000) per month.
- Benefits:
- High earning potential.
- Pathways to permanent residency or citizenship.
- Comprehensive benefits (e.g., insurance, retirement plans).
General Tips for OFWs Applying as Drivers
- Meet Driving License Requirements: Ensure your Philippine driver’s license is valid and obtain an international driving permit (IDP) if necessary.
- Get Certifications: Some countries may require additional certifications, like a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) or heavy equipment operator’s training.
- Check for Visa Sponsorship: Look for employers or agencies offering visa sponsorship, especially for skilled roles.
- Learn Local Laws: Familiarize yourself with the traffic rules and regulations of your destination country.
- Prepare Financially: Consider the expenses for visa processing, medical exams, and travel.
The countries mentioned above provide OFWs with great opportunities to secure stable and rewarding careers as drivers. In some testimonies, drivers working abroad even say that they get paid more while having lesser workload, so it is definitely a must try if you have what it takes.