Beirut - Post Report Question and Answers
What types of jobs do most expatriate spouses/partners have? Locally based or telecommuting? Full-time or part-time? Can you comment on local salary scales?
Most spouses work for the embassy. There is always a need for escorts. I'm not sure about other jobs, but I do think if a spouse wants to work, there will be opportunities for them. There is no bi-lateral agreement to my knowledge, and I've heard of some spouses teleworking. - Aug 2024
All spouses who work work at the embassy. The job pool for EFMs has been rather good, but timing is everything. If you're not picky there will almost certainly be at least some type of job available for anyone who wants one. - Oct 2020
Spouses are restricted to working on compound. The time difference and spotty internet would make it hard to telecommute. - May 2019
A lot of expatriate spouses work at NGO's or for charitable organizations. Teaching jobs are also common. The internet is so bad here it would be hard to take online classes or telecommute. Lebanese pay scales are extremely low, I know a Lebanese lawyer (received her Master's Degree from the U.S.) and she probably makes US$ 30-40K. - Jul 2016
There are some, but not many. - Feb 2015
If you could find a job that allows you to maybe show up to work on an irregular schedule at a different location for 6-hours a week subject to resources and every-changing restrictions, then sure! - Nov 2014
The pay isn't good in Lebanon but there are some opportunities particularly in journalism, magazines, etc. - Jan 2014
Yes, but it can be hard to be fully legal as work permits are difficult to secure. - Sep 2010
Many white collar jobs are restricted to Lebanese. Also, Lebanon suffers from significant unemployment, and it is a net exporter of labor to the Arab world, Europe, and the U.S.Most expats work in education or the NGO field. Embassy spouses cannot work off-compound due to security restrictions. - Jul 2010
Local jobs are not an option for those (including family members) at post. - Jun 2009
I believe it's a challenge to get a work permit, especially with so many over-educated Lebanese who are currently unemployed. - Jun 2008
No. - Mar 2008
