Welcome to your guide to the Timor-Leste job market. Finding the right job or candidate requires solid data. Here you will find key figures on employment, salaries and the economy to support your next career step or recruitment decision in Timor-Leste.
Job market overview
| Key metric | Current value |
|---|---|
| Total population | 1,387,149 residents |
| Employment rate | 41.8% |
| Unemployment rate | 4.6%Low unemployment – employers often compete for skilled staff. |
With an unemployment rate of 4.6%, Timor-Leste has a tight labor market. Skilled professionals are usually in demand.
Living & working in Timor-Leste: salaries and cost of living
Before relocating or applying for jobs in Timor-Leste, consider these key economic factors:
| Indicator | Value | Compared with the U.S. |
|---|---|---|
| Average monthly salary | 400 USD | 9% of the U.S. averagesignificantly lower |
| Purchasing power | 11.2 | weaker (U.S. = 100) |
With a purchasing power index of 11.2, the average monthly salary of 400 USD supports a budget-conscious lifestyle in Timor-Leste. Always compare an offer with local rents and living costs in the specific city.
Top industries & employers in TL
| Leading industry | Agriculture |
| Growth sector | Manufacturing |
| Service sector | Services |
| Major employers | Timor Gap, Banco Nacional de Comércio de Timor-Leste, Timor Telecom |
Job seekers will usually find the most openings in Agriculture, while Manufacturing offers growth potential.
Working in Timor-Leste – FAQ
What's the employment situation in Timor-Leste?
Timor-Leste has a population of about 1,387,149. The employment rate is 41.8%. The unemployment rate currently stands at 4.6%.
Which are the top companies in Timor-Leste?
Large employers in Timor-Leste include Timor Gap, Banco Nacional de Comércio de Timor-Leste, Timor Telecom.
How far does a salary go in Timor-Leste?
The purchasing power index for Timor-Leste is 11.2 (U.S. = 100), which means the cost of living should be weighed carefully when comparing job offers.
How can I find jobs in Timor-Leste?
Browse the latest international openings on Cityjobs and filter by country or remote work. Employers post directly, and you apply with the employer.
Which industries matter most in Timor-Leste?
Agriculture is the leading industry, while Manufacturing is an important growth sector, alongside Services.
Data sources & methodology
The figures in this guide are compiled from these public sources:
- Employment & economic data: World Bank Indicators
- Cost of living & salaries: Numbeo Cost of Living Database
