For many Filipinos, working abroad remains one of the most effective ways to secure financial stability and provide a better future for their families. While college degrees are valuable, not everyone has the opportunity or resources to complete a long-term education. That’s where TESDA becomes a life-changing option.
The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) offers affordable, short-term technical courses that can quickly equip Filipinos with skills that are in high demand overseas. With proper training and certifications, graduates can land high-paying jobs, especially in countries like Japan, Canada, Australia, the Middle East, and Europe.
If you’re planning to work abroad, choosing the right course can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll highlight the TESDA Courses With the Highest Salary internationally and explain why these programs are excellent pathways for OFWs seeking financial growth.
Why Take TESDA Courses for Overseas Employment?
TESDA is known for delivering fast, skills-based training that matches local and international job market demands. Here’s why TESDA remains a top choice for aspiring OFWs:
Short Training Periods
Most TESDA courses take only a few weeks to a few months to complete, making it ideal for those who want to start earning quickly.
Globally Recognized Certifications
With NC (National Certification) levels I–IV, TESDA graduates have verified competencies that foreign employers trust.
High Employment Rate
Many TESDA courses directly lead to jobs, especially in labor-shortage industries like healthcare, construction, and hospitality.
Cost-Effective
Training fees are affordable—and often free under various government scholarship programs.
TESDA Courses With the Highest Salary Abroad
Below are the top TESDA programs known to bring high-paying opportunities abroad. These courses consistently rank among the best for Filipinos aiming to secure stable, long-term employment overseas.
1. Caregiving NC II
Estimated Salary Abroad:
- Canada: CAD 2,500–4,000/month
- Japan: ¥180,000–¥250,000/month
- Middle East: USD 600–900/month
Why It’s High-Paying:
There is a strong global demand for caregivers, especially in countries with aging populations. Caregiving NC II trains students in providing support to infants, adults, and elderly clients, including those with special needs.
Skills You’ll Learn:
- First aid and emergency response
- Personal care and hygiene
- Proper use of assistive devices
- Compassionate communication
Best For: Filipinos who want stable, long-term caregiving careers abroad.
2. Welding Courses (SMAW NC I–II, FCAW, GTAW, GMAW, TIG Welding)
Estimated Salary Abroad:
- Australia: AUD 65,000–90,000/year
- Middle East: USD 800–1,500/month
- Canada: CAD 45–70/hour
Why It’s High-Paying:
Certified welders are among the most in-demand skilled workers abroad. TESDA’s welding programs cover specialized welding techniques that meet international standards.
Skills You’ll Learn:
- Shielded Metal Arc Welding
- Gas Tungsten Arc Welding
- Flux-Cored Arc Welding
- Metal fabrication
- Reading welding blueprints
Best For: Those who want a physically active job with high earning potential.
3. Electrical Installation and Maintenance NC II
Estimated Salary Abroad:
- Canada: CAD 30–45/hour
- Singapore: SGD 2,000–4,000/month
- Middle East: USD 600–1,200/month
Why It’s High-Paying:
Electricians have strong employment opportunities worldwide, especially in construction, manufacturing, and industrial sectors.
Skills You’ll Learn:
- Installing electrical wiring systems
- Electrical troubleshooting
- Motor control installation
- Blueprint reading
Best For: Individuals with strong technical and problem-solving skills.
4. Automotive Servicing NC I–III
Estimated Salary Abroad:
- Japan: ¥180,000–300,000/month
- Canada: CAD 25–40/hour
- Australia: AUD 60,000–80,000/year
Why It’s High-Paying:
Countries like Japan and Canada constantly need trained auto mechanics to maintain and repair modern vehicles.
Skills You’ll Learn:
- Engine tune-ups
- Electrical diagnostics
- Auto repair and maintenance
- Automotive safety procedures
Best For: People passionate about cars and hands-on work.
5. Domestic Work NC II (for Household Workers)
Estimated Salary Abroad:
- Hong Kong: HKD 4,870+/month
- Singapore: SGD 600–900/month
- Middle East: USD 400–700/month
Why It’s High-Paying:
Household service workers (HSWs) are always in demand globally. TESDA’s Domestic Work NC II teaches essential household skills and safety which foreign employers value.
Skills You’ll Learn:
- Cleaning and organizing
- Cooking and meal preparation
- Child and elderly care
- Household safety management
Best For: Filipinos seeking stable employment abroad even without advanced technical background.
6. Hotel and Restaurant Services (Bartending, Housekeeping, Cookery, Food and Beverage Services)
Estimated Salary Abroad:
- Cruise Ships: USD 1,000–3,000/month
- Middle East Hotels: USD 600–1,500/month
- Europe: €1,200–2,500/month
Why It’s High-Paying:
The global tourism and hospitality sector continues to grow, especially in cruise lines and luxury hotels.
Popular TESDA Courses in this Track:
- Cookery NC II
- Housekeeping NC II
- Bartending NC II
- Food and Beverage NC II
Best For: Those who enjoy customer service and travel opportunities.
7. Health Care Services NC II
Estimated Salary Abroad:
- UK: £20,000–28,000/year
- Canada: CAD 2,500–4,000/month
- Middle East: USD 600–900/month
Why It’s High-Paying:
Healthcare workers remain essential in many countries facing nursing and caregiving shortages. This course prepares graduates for basic patient care roles in hospitals, clinics, and care facilities.
Skills You’ll Learn:
- Basic nursing procedures
- Patient monitoring
- Infection control
- Emergency assistance
Best For: Those planning to enter the healthcare field or pursue further nursing programs abroad.
8. Computer and IT Courses (Visual Graphics, Web Development, Animation, Programming)
Estimated Salary Abroad:
- US/Canada Remote Jobs: USD 2,000–6,000/month
- Japan: ¥250,000–500,000/month
- Europe: €2,500–4,500/month
Why It’s High-Paying:
Digital skills are among the highest-paying globally. TESDA offers several short-term IT courses suitable for both remote jobs and overseas employment.
Top TESDA IT Courses:
- Visual Graphic Design NC III
- Web Development Training
- Animation NC II
- Computer Systems Servicing NC II
Best For: Tech-savvy individuals wanting remote or overseas jobs.
How to Choose the Best TESDA Course for Working Abroad
Choosing a course depends on your goals, strengths, and experience. Ask yourself:
1. Which skills am I naturally good at?
Do you prefer physical labor, caregiving, technical work, or creative tasks?
2. Which countries do I want to work in?
Some courses match specific markets:
- Japan → Caregiving, Automotive Servicing
- Canada → Welding, Caregiving, EIM
- Middle East → Hospitality, Electrical, Construction
3. Do I prefer stable or flexible work?
Technical jobs (welding, electrical) offer strong job security.
Hospitality and cruise ship jobs allow travel and career growth.
4. What salary range do I expect?
Welders, electricians, and IT graduates often earn the highest salaries.
Tips to Boost Your Overseas Employment Success
Get your TESDA NC certification
This is your ticket to proving your skills abroad.
Gain experience locally: A few months or years of local experience dramatically increases your hiring chances.
Learn basic communication skills: Countries like Japan, Canada, and Europe value applicants with English or local language proficiency.
Avoid illegal recruiters: Always verify agencies with the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW).
Final Thoughts
TESDA continues to empower millions of Filipinos by providing practical skills that open doors to high-paying opportunities abroad. Choosing the right course can change your life significantly, especially when focusing on the most in-demand and well-compensated fields.
If you’re planning to work overseas, investing in TESDA Courses With the Highest Salary is one of the best decisions you can make. With proper training, certification, and determination, you can build a rewarding career and secure a brighter future for your family.
Read Also:
- Best Short Courses in the Philippines for Quick Employment
- Best TESDA Courses for Starting Your Own Business