\n| 6G position<\/td>\n | Pipe welding for oil and gas<\/td>\n | KSA, Qatar, UAE, Canada, Japan<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nSMAW (Shielded Metal Arc Welding)<\/h2>\nWhat it is<\/h3>\nSMAW, or stick welding, uses a consumable electrode coated in flux. It is versatile, relatively simple, and widely used in construction and repair work.<\/p>\n Where it\u2019s used abroad<\/h3>\n\n- Saudi Arabia<\/strong> \u2013 construction, oil and gas projects<\/li>\n
- Qatar<\/strong> \u2013 industrial plants and structural work<\/li>\n
- New Zealand<\/strong> \u2013 infrastructure and structural steel projects<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Why OFWs need it<\/h3>\nSMAW is the foundation of most welding jobs abroad. TESDA SMAW NC II<\/a> is often the minimum requirement for deployment, especially for first-time OFWs.<\/p>\nReal OFW example<\/h3>\nFilipino welders in Dammam<\/a> often start with SMAW tasks on construction sites. After proving their skill and reliability, some are promoted to more specialized roles or given the chance to train in TIG or FCAW for higher-paying projects.<\/p>\n \n\n\nLevel<\/strong><\/td>\nProcess<\/strong><\/td>\nIndustry<\/strong><\/td>\nMonthly Salary (Estimated)<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n\n\n| Entry<\/b><\/span><\/td>\n | SMAW (3G\/4G)<\/span><\/td>\n | General Construction<\/span><\/td>\n | SAR 2,000 \u2013 3,500<\/b><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n| Skilled<\/b><\/span><\/td>\n | FCAW \/ MIG<\/span><\/td>\n | Shipyards \/ Fabrication<\/span><\/td>\n | SAR 3,500 \u2013 5,000<\/b><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n| Specialist<\/b><\/span><\/td>\n | TIG \/ 6G Pipe<\/span><\/td>\n | Oil & Gas \/ Power Plants<\/span><\/td>\n | SAR 5,000 \u2013 9,000+<\/b><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n| Foreman<\/b><\/span><\/td>\n | Multi-Process<\/span><\/td>\n | Lead\/Supervisory<\/span><\/td>\n | SAR 10,000+<\/b><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nGTAW \/ TIG (Gas Tungsten Arc Welding)<\/h2>\nWhat it is<\/h3>\nTIG welding uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode and produces clean, precise welds. It is ideal for stainless steel, aluminum, and thin metals where appearance and quality are critical.<\/p>\n Where it\u2019s used abroad<\/h3>\n\n- UAE<\/strong> \u2013 shipbuilding, stainless fabrication, refineries<\/li>\n
- Japan<\/strong> \u2013 precision manufacturing and machinery<\/li>\n
- Canada<\/strong> \u2013 food-grade stainless steel and process industries<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Why OFWs need it<\/h3>\nTIG welders earn higher salaries due to the precision and skill required. Many employers abroad specifically request TIG welders for high-spec projects.<\/p>\n Real OFW example<\/h3>\nMany Filipino welders in Abu Dhabi report that TIG skills helped them move from basic fabrication shops to high-paying refinery projects, with better accommodation and longer contracts.<\/p>\n GMAW \/ MIG (Gas Metal Arc Welding)<\/h2>\nWhat it is<\/h3>\nMIG welding uses a continuous wire feed and shielding gas. It is fast, efficient, and ideal for production work in factories and assembly lines.<\/p>\n Where it\u2019s used abroad<\/h3>\n\n- Canada<\/strong> \u2013 automotive, manufacturing, and fabrication<\/li>\n
- Australia<\/strong> \u2013 metal fabrication and workshops<\/li>\n
- Poland<\/strong> \u2013 factory and assembly line work<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Why OFWs need it<\/h3>\nMIG is common in countries with large manufacturing sectors. It is also easier to learn compared to TIG, making it a good second process for SMAW welders who want to shift into factory work abroad.<\/p>\n Real OFW example<\/h3>\nFactory workers in Taiwan often transition to MIG welding roles after gaining experience on the production floor. This shift usually comes with higher pay and better chances of contract renewal.<\/p>\n FCAW (Flux-Cored Arc Welding)<\/h2>\nWhat it is<\/h3>\nFCAW uses a flux-filled wire, which makes it suitable for heavy fabrication and outdoor welding where wind can affect shielding gas. It is widely used in structural and industrial projects.<\/p>\n Where it\u2019s used abroad<\/h3>\n\n- New Zealand<\/strong> \u2013 structural steel, bridges, and infrastructure<\/li>\n
- Canada<\/strong> \u2013 heavy equipment and large fabrication projects<\/li>\n
- Saudi Arabia<\/strong> \u2013 industrial plants and refineries<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Why OFWs need it<\/h3>\nFCAW welders are in high demand for large construction and infrastructure projects. Employers often prefer welders who can handle both FCAW and SMAW for flexibility on site.<\/p>\n Real OFW example<\/h3>\nFilipino welders in Auckland often use FCAW for building bridges and high-rise structures. Those with strong FCAW skills are frequently assigned to critical structural work with better overtime opportunities.<\/p>\n 6G welding (pipe welding position)<\/h2>\nWhat it is<\/h3>\n6G is a welding position, not a process. It involves welding a pipe fixed at a 45-degree angle, combining flat, vertical, and overhead positions. It is considered one of the most difficult and most respected welding tests.<\/p>\n Where it\u2019s used abroad<\/h3>\n\n- Oil and gas projects<\/strong> in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE<\/li>\n
- Refineries<\/strong> in Canada<\/li>\n
- Shipyards<\/strong> in Japan and other industrial hubs<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Why OFWs need it<\/h3>\nPassing a 6G test can significantly increase your salary and open doors to offshore and refinery work. Many high-paying welding jobs abroad require 6G certification.<\/p>\n Real OFW example<\/h3>\nMany Filipino welders deployed to Qatar Petroleum say the 6G test was the key to securing high-paying contracts, with better benefits and more stable project assignments.<\/p>\n Sample salary ranges by process and country<\/h2>\nThese are approximate monthly salary ranges in Philippine pesos (PHP) and can vary based on experience, employer, and project.<\/p>\n \n\n\n| Process + country<\/th>\n | Typical role<\/th>\n | Estimated monthly salary (PHP)<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n | \n\n| SMAW \u2013 Saudi Arabia<\/td>\n | Construction welder<\/td>\n | \u20b145,000\u2013\u20b170,000<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n | \n| TIG \u2013 UAE<\/td>\n | Stainless \/ refinery welder<\/td>\n | \u20b160,000\u2013\u20b190,000<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n | \n| MIG \u2013 Canada<\/td>\n | Factory \/ production welder<\/td>\n | \u20b1120,000\u2013\u20b1180,000<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n | \n| FCAW \u2013 New Zealand<\/td>\n | Structural steel welder<\/td>\n | \u20b1100,000\u2013\u20b1150,000<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n | \n| 6G + TIG \u2013 Qatar<\/td>\n | Pipe welder (oil and gas)<\/td>\n | \u20b1130,000\u2013\u20b1200,000<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nCountry-specific steps for welders<\/h2>\nA. Saudi Arabia \u2013 SMAW \/ FCAW welders<\/h3>\n\n- Complete TESDA training<\/strong> \u2013 Aim for SMAW NC II (and FCAW if possible).<\/li>\n
- Prepare your documents<\/strong> \u2013 Passport, resume, certificates, employment records.<\/li>\n
- Apply through a DMW-licensed agency<\/strong> \u2013 Verify job orders and agency status.<\/li>\n
- Take the trade test<\/strong> \u2013 Usually 3G or 6G SMAW\/FCAW at an accredited center.<\/li>\n
- Attend employer interview<\/strong> \u2013 Expect questions on safety and previous projects.<\/li>\n
- Undergo medical exam and visa processing<\/strong> \u2013 Follow clinic and embassy instructions.<\/li>\n
- Complete PDOS and contract verification<\/strong> \u2013 Ensure salary, position, and benefits match what was promised.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
B. United Arab Emirates \u2013 TIG \/ multi-process welders<\/h3>\n\n- Train in TIG (GTAW)<\/strong> \u2013 Preferably with TESDA certification or equivalent training.<\/li>\n
- Build a portfolio<\/strong> \u2013 Photos of stainless welds, test results, and certificates.<\/li>\n
- Apply via licensed agencies<\/strong> \u2013 Focus on shipyards, fabrication shops, and refineries.<\/li>\n
- Pass skills and trade tests<\/strong> \u2013 TIG tests on stainless or alloy pipes\/plates are common.<\/li>\n
- Process work permit and visa<\/strong> \u2013 Employer usually handles UAE work permit.<\/li>\n
- Complete PDOS, OEC, and insurance<\/strong> \u2013 Follow DMW requirements before departure.<\/li>\n
- Deployment and site orientation<\/strong> \u2013 Expect safety briefings and additional training on arrival.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
C. Canada \u2013 MIG \/ FCAW and 6G welders<\/h3>\n\n- Check eligibility and pathway<\/strong> \u2013 Temporary Foreign Worker Program, PNP, or other streams.<\/li>\n
- Prepare a Canadian-style resume<\/strong> \u2013 Highlight MIG\/FCAW, 6G, and industrial experience.<\/li>\n
- Secure a job offer<\/strong> \u2013 Often through licensed agencies or direct employer recruitment.<\/li>\n
- Employer obtains LMIA (if required)<\/strong> \u2013 This proves the need for a foreign worker.<\/li>\n
- Apply for a work permit<\/strong> \u2013 Submit documents through IRCC.<\/li>\n
- Take any required trade tests<\/strong> \u2013 Some employers test MIG\/FCAW skills on arrival.<\/li>\n
- Plan for long-term options<\/strong> \u2013 Use Canadian work experience to explore permanent residency later.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
Which welding process should OFWs learn first?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n| Goal<\/th>\n | Recommended process<\/th>\n | Reason<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n | \n\n| Fast deployment<\/td>\n | SMAW<\/td>\n | Required by most agencies and basic overseas jobs.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n | \n| Higher salary<\/td>\n | TIG (GTAW)<\/td>\n | Precision work is paid more, especially in refineries and stainless projects.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n | \n| Manufacturing jobs<\/td>\n | MIG (GMAW)<\/td>\n | Common in factories, automotive, and production lines abroad.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n | \n| Heavy construction<\/td>\n | FCAW<\/td>\n | Used in structural steel and large infrastructure projects.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n | \n| Oil and gas<\/td>\n | 6G + TIG<\/td>\n | Pipe welding skills are essential for high-paying oil and gas roles.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n10. Tips for choosing the right welding process<\/h2>\n1. Check the country you want to work in<\/h3>\nIf you are targeting Canada, focus on MIG and FCAW. If your goal is the UAE or Qatar, TIG and 6G pipe welding will give you an advantage.<\/p>\n 2. Consider your long-term career<\/h3>\nTIG and 6G welders usually have the highest earning potential and more opportunities to move into supervisory or inspector roles later on.<\/p>\n 3. Invest in TESDA training<\/h3>\nTESDA courses are recognized by most foreign employers. Start with SMAW NC II, then add TIG, MIG, or FCAW depending on your target country.<\/p>\n 4. Practice regularly<\/h3>\nTrade tests abroad are strict. Consistent practice on plates and pipes, in different positions, will help you pass employer tests with confidence.<\/p>\n 5. Build a portfolio<\/h3>\nInclude photos of your welds, copies of certificates, and trade test results. A strong portfolio can impress employers even before they see you weld in person.<\/p>\n Final thoughts<\/h2>\nUnderstanding welding processes is one of the best ways for Filipino welders to increase their chances of getting hired abroad. Whether you are aiming for Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Canada, Japan, or New Zealand, mastering SMAW plus at least one additional process (TIG, MIG, or FCAW) will significantly improve your opportunities.<\/p>\n For OFWs, welding is not just a job \u2014 it can be a long-term career path that supports your family, opens doors to permanent residency, and builds skills that are in demand worldwide.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Summary Different countries hire welders based on the specific welding processes they use in construction, oil and gas, shipbuilding, and manufacturing. For Filipino welders, understanding these processes is essential for passing trade tests, qualifying for higher-paying roles, and choosing the right TESDA training. This guide explains the most common welding processes used abroad, where they […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":43330,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[141],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-43329","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-welders"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pinoy-ofw.com\/jobs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/43329","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pinoy-ofw.com\/jobs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pinoy-ofw.com\/jobs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pinoy-ofw.com\/jobs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pinoy-ofw.com\/jobs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=43329"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.pinoy-ofw.com\/jobs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/43329\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":43342,"href":"https:\/\/www.pinoy-ofw.com\/jobs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/43329\/revisions\/43342"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pinoy-ofw.com\/jobs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/43330"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pinoy-ofw.com\/jobs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=43329"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pinoy-ofw.com\/jobs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=43329"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pinoy-ofw.com\/jobs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=43329"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}} | | | | | | | | | | |
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