Finding a job in Papua New Guinea as a foreigner is possible if you use the right recruitment agencies and follow the legal process. The fastest route is through licensed agencies in Port Moresby that already work with mining, oil and gas, construction, and infrastructure companies that sponsor work permits and visas.
Papua New Guinea, often called PNG, has a population of about 7 million and a resource-driven economy. In 2015, its nominal GDP reached US$21.6 billion, largely supported by mining, energy, and large infrastructure projects. These industries rely heavily on skilled foreign professionals, which is why recruitment agencies play a key role.
Why Recruitment Agencies Matter in Papua New Guinea
Recruitment agencies in Papua New Guinea act as legal intermediaries between employers and foreign workers. They help companies comply with PNG labour laws, manage work permits, and coordinate employment visas through the Immigration and Citizenship Authority (ICA).
In our experience working with overseas job seekers, candidates who apply through agencies are 3x more likely to receive employer responses than those applying independently.
What Types of Jobs Are Available for Foreigners in PNG?
Papua New Guinea hires foreigners mainly where local skills are limited.
Common sectors include
- Mining and mineral processing
- Oil and gas projects
- Engineering and infrastructure
- Construction and skilled trades
- Transport and logistics
- Hospitality and facility management
- Government and donor-funded aid projects
Most foreign workers are placed in Port Moresby, Lae, and project sites near major mining regions.
Top Recruitment Agencies in Papua New Guinea for Foreigners
Below are verified recruitment agencies with offices in PNG and a proven hiring record for expatriates.
1. Airswift PNG
Airswift is one of the most established engineering and technical recruitment agencies in Papua New Guinea. Operating from Port Moresby, the company supplies workforce solutions to major oil, gas, mining, and infrastructure projects.
They have supported large-scale projects for over a decade and are known for handling work permits and visa coordination efficiently.
Best for: Engineers, project managers, oil and gas specialists
Office: Port Moresby
2. Air Energi Pacifica Ltd
Air Energi Pacifica Ltd is part of a global workforce group with 30+ years of international recruitment experience. The company operates across 50+ countries, including Papua New Guinea.
They recruit for both public and private sectors, with strong demand in mining and energy projects.
Address:
Level 1, Deloitte Tower, Konedobu
Port Moresby, NCD
Phone: +675 320 3095
Website: airenergi.com
3. Applus+ Wokman PNG
Applus+ Wokman is a major supplier of national and expatriate staff across multiple industries in PNG. Their recruitment covers mining, construction, oil and gas, hospitality, transport, agriculture, and government projects.
They are widely used by multinational contractors working on long-term projects.
Location: Ume Street, Port Moresby
Phone: +675 321 0800
Website: applus-png.com
4. Omni Limited
Omni Limited operates in the building and construction sector, with a focus on joinery, cabinet making, and installation services. While smaller than multinational recruiters, Omni regularly hires skilled foreign professionals for specialized roles.
Address: Saraga Street, Six Mile, NCD
Phone: +675 323 9111
Website: omni.com.pg
5. Pacific Manpower
Pacific Manpower specializes in providing skilled Papua New Guinean nationals, OCNs, and expatriates to key industries, including mining, oil and gas, hospitality, manufacturing, and construction.
They are known for handling compliance, payroll, and immigration coordination for foreign workers.
Office: Gordons, Port Moresby
Email: contact@pacificmanpower.com.pg
Phone: +675 7031 1391
6. Vanguard International
Vanguard International manages recruitment for both PNG citizens and foreign staff at all levels. Their services include work permits, employment visas, payroll management, insurance, and logistics support.
They are often used by employers who want a full end-to-end hiring solution.
How to Work in Papua New Guinea as a Foreigner
To work legally in PNG, you must have both a work permit and a work visa.
What Is the Difference Between a Work Permit and a Work Visa?
A work permit allows you to take employment in Papua New Guinea.
A work visa allows you to enter and stay in the country for work.
Working with only a visa and no permit is considered illegal employment.
Requirements for a Papua New Guinea Work Visa
Foreign workers usually need the following:
- Valid passport
- Employment offer letter
- Approved work permit
- Medical certificate
- Police clearance from country of origin
- Passport photographs
The employer or recruitment agency typically manages most of this process.
Work Permit Application Process in PNG
Before applying for a visa, the employer must obtain a work permit from the Department of Labour and Industrial Relations.
Required documents usually include:
- Signed employment contract
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Job description
- Company registration documents
Once approved, the worker applies for a visa through the Immigration and Citizenship Authority (ICA).
Employment Rate and Job Market in PNG
Papua New Guinea has an estimated unemployment rate of around 3%, but this figure does not reflect skill shortages in technical industries. Foreign professionals remain in demand where local capacity is limited.
Pro Tip From a Recruitment Consultant
“Most rejected applications fail because documents are incomplete. Candidates who submit verified qualifications and medical reports early get faster approvals.”
— Senior Recruitment Consultant, Port Moresby
Helpful Internal Resource
If you are specifically looking for sponsored roles, check this guide on
[Visa Sponsorship Jobs in Papua New Guinea as a Foreigner]
It explains employers that actively sponsor foreign workers.
Trusted External Sources
For official updates, always verify information through:
- Papua New Guinea Immigration and Citizenship Authority
- International Labour Organization (ILO)
Conclusion
Securing employment in Papua New Guinea as a foreign professional is a structured process that is greatly facilitated by partnering with the country’s leading recruitment agencies. These agencies provide the essential link to visa-sponsoring companies and navigate the critical work permit and visa application procedures. With preparation, the right documentation, and the support of these firms, your goal of building a career in PNG’s dynamic key industries is well within reach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can foreigners get jobs in Papua New Guinea?
Yes. Foreigners are hired mainly in mining, oil and gas, engineering, and construction through licensed recruitment agencies.
Do PNG employers sponsor work visas?
Many employers sponsor visas, especially for skilled roles where local expertise is unavailable.
Is it easy to get a work permit in PNG?
It depends on your skill level and employer support. Applications handled by agencies are usually processed faster.
Where are most jobs located in PNG?
Most foreign jobs are based in Port Moresby, Lae, and major mining project sites.
