At first glance, Monaco's economy may just seem to be banking and finance. True, there are more than 60 banking and financial institutions operating in Monaco, and the banking and finance sector experiences strong and steady growth that is driven by private banking. But this is only part of the picture.

Despite its physical size, the Monegasque economy is diverse – tourism, real estate, retail, the services industry (maritime / transport services, insurance, information technology or telecommunications), and public works (construction sector) all contribute to Monaco's growing economy. Tourism represents 13% of Monaco's economy. The retail sector has about 1,150 establishments and its annual turnover is about 1,15 million euros. In a 2006 report released by the Monaco government, there were 44,000 public and private jobs available for its 34,347 residents. All in all, there are about 4,500 companies operating in Monaco.

Each day, an estimated 32,000 French nationals and 4,000 Italian nationals commute to Monaco. For more data on Monaco's economy, refer to the Monaco's government website at www.gouv.mc.

Foreigners wishing to find employment in Monaco must first possess a valid work permit. It is possible for foreigners to reside in Monaco initially without employment, but there are certain requirements to meet. (See Section on Registration, Permits and Other Registration for details). Expatriates would want to take note that the employment laws in Monaco tend to protect Monegasque nationals and EU nationals over non-EU nationals, when it comes to obtaining work permits.

If you are an EU citizen, you can register your intent to be employed with The Employment Office ("Direction du Travail et des Affairs Sociales Service de a'emploi") at La Fregate, 2 Rue Princesse Antoinette (Tel: +377 93.158.814).

In 2009, there are 13 paid public holidays that all employees in Monaco are entitled to. For the actual dates, click here.