Sri Lanka’s workforce is increasingly exploring diverse job opportunities both within the country and abroad. Taxi drivers play a vital role in the nation’s transport sector, significantly contributing to economic development by providing essential services. The rise of ride-hailing platforms and international job openings offers them the chance to enhance their income and overall quality of life. Seeking employment in foreign markets where skilled drivers are in demand can help them access better financial prospects, alleviating some of the economic difficulties at home.
Recently, Romania announced 100,000 job openings for foreign workers, presenting new employment avenues for Sri Lankans across various industries such as ports, logistics, cybersecurity, education, and ICT. The inclusion of taxi drivers in Romania’s permitted occupations list, following amendments in work permit regulations, further expands opportunities.
Romanian media reports indicate that the country now allows non-EU nationals to work as taxi or ride-hailing drivers (including Uber and Bolt) due to recent regulatory changes. A significant policy shift now enables candidates to take the licensing exam in English, making the process more accessible. For the past five years, Romanian transport authorities have sought to recruit professional drivers from economically developing nations, including Sri Lanka, Nepal, Vietnam, and the Philippines, where English proficiency meets acceptable standards.
The revised licensing process allows drivers to take the theoretical exam in English, with practical tests currently available only in Bucharest. These reforms aim to address Romania’s shortage of skilled drivers while strengthening its transport sector.
In addition to the demand for drivers, Romania is witnessing increased investment from multinational companies, creating job openings for IT professionals. This surge in business expansion benefits Sri Lankan IT specialists looking for career growth in both international and local Romanian firms, further enhancing their employment prospects.
. While the Romanian government does not directly oversee recruitment, private employment agencies handle the process. According to a senior Sri Lankan foreign ministry official, job opportunities in Romania are mainly in construction, IT, and tourism.
To promote ethical recruitment, authorities emphasize the importance of regulating service fees and implementing legal measures against fraudulent recruitment practices. Currently, around 2,500 Sri Lankans are employed in Romania, with ongoing discussions regarding appointing a permanent consul to assist them.
Beyond Romania, other countries also seek experienced taxi drivers to strengthen their transport networks. The Middle East, particularly the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, offers promising opportunities with competitive salaries, job stability, and better working conditions. International employment also allows drivers to gain cross-cultural exposure, improve professional skills, and ensure financial security for their families.
However, local Sri Lankan taxi drivers face numerous challenges, including rising fuel prices, competition from unregulated ride-hailing services, and economic instability. Difficulty accessing financing for vehicle purchase and maintenance further restricts their growth. To address these issues, collaboration between the Sri Lankan government and private stakeholders is essential to develop policies that enhance working conditions and create pathways for international employment.
