Fiji Sees Rise in Overseas Employment as More Residents Seek Jobs Abroad

A recent report from the Fiji Bureau of Statistics highlighted an increasing trend of Fijians seeking employment opportunities abroad, with significant implications for both individuals and the nation’s socio-economic landscape. In September 2025, 1,133 residents, representing 7.1% of departures, left Fiji specifically for overseas employment. This figure is a notable rise from August, where 809 Fijians departed for similar reasons, reflecting a growing inclination among citizens to explore job prospects outside their homeland.

During September, a total of 15,961 Fijians exited the country, with the vast majority—14,417 individuals or 90.3%—traveling for short-term absences of less than three months. Among these, 46.5% cited holidays as their primary reason for leaving, while 32.5% traveled to visit friends and relatives. Despite the predominance of short trips, employment-related travel represented a significant segment, illustrating Fiji’s increasing participation in the global labor market, particularly in Australia and New Zealand.

Among those departing for work, 407 Fijians planned absences of 3 to 12 months, while 345 others anticipated being away for one to five years. This aligns with earlier statistics from November, where 943 Fijians left for prolonged absences, with 645 citing employment as their motive.

These patterns of migration not only highlight the aspirations of Fijians for better job opportunities but also underscore the potential benefits such experiences can bring. Returning residents may bring back valuable skills and insights that can contribute to Fiji’s economic growth and development. As the trend of seeking opportunities abroad continues, it presents both challenges and potential advantages for the country, particularly in fostering cultural exchange and enriching the local workforce.

The dynamic nature of Fijian migration reflects a broader phenomenon of global mobility, where individuals actively pursue avenues for personal and professional growth. As these trends persist, they signify not just individual outcomes but also the potential for collective advancement as Fiji navigates its place in an increasingly interconnected world.