The government has decided to allocate the Rs. 5 billion Kuwait Fund exclusively for the social protection and welfare of Sri Lankan migrant workers, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Employment Arun Hemachandra told Parliament on Wednesday.

Addressing Parliament, the Deputy Minister outlined measures being taken to strengthen the protection of Sri Lankan migrant workers, improve welfare services, and reduce delays in documentation and certification processes.

He said there are approximately 1,076,663 registered Sri Lankan migrant workers overseas. The largest numbers are employed in Saudi Arabia (248,000), the United Arab Emirates (350,000), Kuwait (175,000) and Qatar (140,000). A further 185,765 registered workers are employed in countries where Sri Lanka does not maintain dedicated labour sections at its diplomatic missions.

Hemachandra said formal social protection mechanisms are currently in place for Sri Lankan workers in Cyprus, Jordan, Malaysia, Qatar and Saudi Arabia, while workers in South Korea are covered under that country’s National Pension Scheme and National Insurance system. In countries without dedicated social protection arrangements, labour-related issues are handled individually through Sri Lankan diplomatic missions.

Responding to a supplementary question from MP Hector Appuhamy, the Deputy Minister said the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment had introduced a dedicated emergency hotline during the recent Middle East conflict to collect information on workers who lost their jobs and facilitate necessary intervention.

He also said steps have been taken to reduce delays in obtaining police clearance certificates and document authentication services required for overseas employment. The government is currently discussing a digitalisation programme with the Ministry of Public Security to speed up police certification procedures for Sri Lankans living abroad, while applicants in Sri Lanka are encouraged to obtain police reports through their local police stations for faster processing. (Newswire)

The post Govt to reserve Rs. 5 bn Kuwait Fund solely for welfare of Sri Lankan migrant workers appeared first on Newswire.

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has instructed officials to promptly resolve outstanding issues relating to the proposed contributory pension scheme for Sri Lankan migrant workers and ensure its inclusion in this year’s Budget proposals.

Highlighting that overseas workers remain one of the country’s largest sources of foreign exchange earnings, the President stressed the need for a structured and sustainable pension scheme to safeguard their future. He called for swift action to implement the initiative without delay.

The directive was issued while chairing a review of projects implemented under the 2026 budget allocations and the 2027 pre‑budget discussion of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, held at the Presidential Secretariat today (16).

Beyond migrant worker welfare, the President also addressed several other areas:

• Tourism funding: Financial allocations for tourism development projects are to be transferred directly to District Secretaries, enabling faster implementation through coordination between District Development Committees and Tourism Committees.
• Integrated development: Programmes proposed by the Road Development Authority around Sigiriya, Galewela and Trincomalee will be jointly implemented with the Ministry of Tourism and the Department of Archaeology to save time and resources.
• Procurement reforms: Officials were instructed to adopt the new procurement framework introduced by the Ministry of Finance, allowing activities to commence from the first week of January each year, with separate interventions for specialised projects such as tourism construction.
• Tourism promotion: Upcoming programmes include the Asian Broadcasters’ Conference, alongside digitalisation initiatives with the Ministry of Digital Affairs to enhance consular services.
• Asset reporting: The President noted that no comprehensive report on assets and lands under the Ministry of Tourism had been prepared previously and directed officials to expedite its completion.
• Workforce training: With the tourism sector expected to require around 800,000 workers by 2030, plans are underway to expand training programmes through hotel schools to meet future demand. (Newswire)

The post Seven key directives from President’s pre‑budget review appeared first on Newswire.

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Arun Hemachandra says a high‑level discussion was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs recently (14) to explore the introduction of enhanced duty‑free allowances for Sri Lankans working overseas.

The meeting, chaired by Minister Vijitha Herath, focused on improving the existing system to provide greater benefits to migrant workers, particularly those remitting earnings through formal banking channels.

Deputy Minister Hemachandra said attention was given to simplifying customs procedures, linking duty‑free benefits with remittance records, improving access to loan facilities, and strengthening coordination among the Ministry of Finance, the Central Bank, Sri Lanka Customs, commercial banks, and Lanka Remit.

“These proposed measures aim to recognise the valuable contribution of overseas Sri Lankans and make duty‑free benefits more accessible, transparent and practical,” he added. (Newswire)

The post Bigger duty-free benefits proposed for Sri Lankan migrant workers appeared first on Newswire.

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism, Arun Hemachandra, says that in 2026, Sri Lanka entered into several beneficial agreements with foreign countries, strengthened consular services, and implemented a number of welfare measures for migrant workers.

Deputy Minister Hemachandra made these remarks yesterday (Jan 05) while participating in a media briefing held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

He noted that the decades‑old Foreign Service Appointments Act contains many shortcomings, and announced that this year it will be amended and presented as a new Foreign Employment Act.

Speaking further, he said several measures will be taken for the welfare of migrant workers, including providing housing loans worth Rs. 10 million.

Deputy Minister Hemachandra also mentioned that discussions are underway to introduce a pension scheme for migrant workers, and emphasized that he will personally intervene to resolve their issues.

He went on to note that if migrant workers face any problems, they will be able to lodge complaints via social media, with a special investigation unit to be established for this purpose. 

Deputy Minister Hemachandra added that a WhatsApp number will be introduced in the future to facilitate the submission of complaints. (Newswire)

The post Govt announces housing loans, pension plans for migrant workers appeared first on Newswire.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Employment has set up an emergency disaster response unit to assist families of Sri Lankan migrant workers and others abroad, in light of the current disaster situation in the country.

This unit was established under the directives of Minister Vijitha Herath, with Deputy Minister Arun Hemachandra also instructing the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE) to provide immediate relief to the migrant worker community.

Due to practical challenges in delivering emergency aid, the SLBFE has allocated up to Rs. 15,000 per family registered with the Bureau. Families can use this allowance to purchase essential goods from local shops, based on their preference. A circular has been issued to facilitate this process, according to Bureau Chairman Kosala Wickramasinghe.

A special program has also been launched to provide compensation for damages caused by the disaster. Under this scheme, information on affected migrant worker families must be collected and submitted by Provincial Senior Managers to the Bureau’s Deputy General Manager (Social Development), in line with the conditions outlined in the circular.

To assist children of migrant workers, the SLBFE has introduced a program to provide school books and supplies. Each child in need will receive material assistance up to Rs. 10,000, ensuring their education continues despite the disaster.

As part of immediate relief measures, migrant worker families are also eligible for up to Rs. 7,000 in aid for purchasing essential medicines.

Affected migrant workers abroad can share their family details with the SLBFE through the hotline 1989 or via WhatsApp at +94 719802822. (Newswire)

The post Several initiatives to support migrant worker families affected by disaster appeared first on Newswire.

A new government initiative offering discounted air tickets for Sri Lankan migrant workers officially launched today at the Sri Lanka Foreign Employment Agency in Nawala

The ticket counter was opened under the patronage of Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Employment Arun Hemachandra.

The program provides airline tickets at rates lower than those available in the open market. All migrant workers leaving for employment abroad, regardless of destination, are eligible to purchase these discounted tickets.

Officials present at the opening included Additional Secretary to the Ministry of Foreign Employment B.S. Yalagama, SLBFE Chairman Kosala Wickramasinghe, and Sri Lanka Foreign Employment Agency Chairman Lal Hettiarachchi. (Newswire)

The post Govt launches low-cost air ticket program for Migrant Workers appeared first on Newswire.

The government is to launch a programme under the President’s Fund to provide financial assistance for the education of children in Sri Lanka whose parents are facing hardships while working abroad.

The new programme will be launched in line with the concept of “Ensuring No Child is Left Behind in Education”.

The initiative will be implemented jointly by the President’s Fund, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism and the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE). 

A discussion on expanding the services of the President’s Fund to benefit Sri Lankans employed overseas, as well as those aspiring to seek employment overseas, was held at the Presidential Secretariat yesterday (03).

The meeting was chaired by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, Vijitha Herath, together with Senior Additional Secretary to the President and Secretary to the President’s Fund, Roshan Gamage. 

The programme aims to safeguard the school and university education of children in Sri Lanka whose parents are working overseas, particularly those who have passed away, are affected by disasters, imprisoned or missing abroad. 

The programme also seeks to offer financial assistance to young individuals who are preparing to work overseas, to study foreign languages, monthly allowances for resource personnel at language training centres, financial backing for rural youth to obtain necessary skills, training for overseas employment and the development of a skilled workforce for the tourism sector, particularly focusing on rural areas. 

The discussion yesterday was attended by Additional Secretary of the Foreign Employment Division of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. M. M. S. S. B. Yalegama, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment Kogala Wickramasinghe, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management Dheera Hettiarachchi, along with officials from the President’s Fund and the SLBFE. (Newswire)

The post Govt to support children of migrant workers facing hardship overseas appeared first on Newswire.

Sri Lankan workers affiliated with the National People’s Power (NPP) residing in the United Kingdom have donated Rs. 06 million for the establishment of rest facilities for drivers at five selected depots of the Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB). 

The five depots selected for the development of rest facilities were jointly identified by the SLTB and the Ministry of Transport. 

Commenting on the donation, Transport Minister Bimal Rathnayake said the government is grateful for this contribution made in the interest of the country.

A cheque worth Rs. 06 million was handed over to the minister by Darshana Hettiarachchi, a representative of the NPP UK branch, at the Transport Ministry premises in Battaramulla this morning (15).

“We hope that this generous initiative by the UK-based Sri Lankans will serve as a model for other Sri Lankan workers living abroad,” Minister Rathnayake added. (Newswire)

The post NPP UK members donate Rs 6 million for SLTB appeared first on Newswire.

The Government has responded to key questions raised by opposition MP Ravi Karunanayake concerning Sri Lankan migrant workers, including on minimum wages and working conditions.

MP Karunanayake had raised the questions from the Minister of Finance under Parliamentary Standing Order 27(2) in May this year.

According to a Parliament statement, the government’s response to the 10 questions is as follows; 

1. What are the Minimum wages currently applicable to Sri Lankan migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar and Kuwait?

The Government of Sri Lanka lifted the mandatory minimum monthly wage of USD 300 for migrant workers on 13th September 2021, as part of post-COVID-19 economic recovery efforts and to enhance overseas job opportunities. Therefore, currently there is no imposed minimum wage for migrant workers by the Sri Lankan Government. However, as of 2025, minimum wage provisions for migrant workers in the Middle East vary by country. 

In Qatar, a legally mandated non-discriminatory minimum wage applies to all workers, including domestic workers. It ensures a basic monthly salary of 1,000 Qatari Riyals (approximately USD 275), with additional allowances of 300 QAR for food and 500 QAR for accommodation if not provided by the employer, bringing the total to 1,800 QAR (around USD 494). 

In Kuwait, the minimum wage for private sector workers, including expatriates, is 75 Kuwaiti Dinars (about USD 240) per month. Saudi Arabia does not currently have a legally established minimum wage for migrant workers. In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), there is no specified minimum wage.

The Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE) and Sri Lankan Missions abroad maintain ongoing engagement with these host countries to monitor wage conditions and advocate for the fair treatment and protection of its workers abroad.

2. Has Sri Lanka signed Bilateral Labour Agreements with Middle Eastern Governments to guarantee fair wages and better working conditions for Sri Lankan workers?

Yes. Sri Lanka has signed Bilateral Labour Agreements and Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with key Middle Eastern destination countries to safeguard the rights and welfare of Sri Lankan migrant workers. These agreements are designed to ensure fair wages, decent and safe working conditions, dispute resolution mechanisms and legal protections, particularly for domestic and low-skilled workers.

Through diplomatic engagement and labour diplomacy, Sri Lanka has signed 08 MoUs/labour agreements with key destination countries in the Middle East, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Israel, Bahrain, Jordan and Kuwait. These agreements typically cover key aspects, including standardized employment contracts, dispute resolution mechanisms, wage protection, access to grievance redress, and regulation of recruitment practices.

In addition, Sri Lanka continues to work closely with host countries to monitor implementation, enhance oversight, and engage in joint committees to review labour conditions. These efforts reflect Sri Lanka’s commitment to protecting its overseas workers and ensuring their dignity and rights are upheld in line with international labour standards.

3. How does the Ministry ensure that Sri Lankan workers receive wages equal or better than workers from Nepal, Bangladesh, and the Philippines in the same industries?

The Government of Sri Lanka, through the Ministry in close coordination with the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE) and the Sri Lankan Missions in abroad, takes a comprehensive and diplomatic approach to ensure that Sri Lankan workers in destination countries receive wages and employment conditions equal to or better than those offered to migrant workers from other competiting labour sending countries in the same sectors. This is achieved through regular bilateral engagements and labour cooperation agreement,s and joint committee meetings with relevant countries. These agreements are reviewed whenever necessary to discuss and decide on relevant issues that arise to reflect labour market changes and uphold wage parity across nationalities.

Further, before departure, all Sri Lankan workers undergo mandatory registration and pre-departure training, during which their employment contracts are reviewed to ensure that salary levels comply with legal minimum wage and, where possible, reflect regional benchmarks. The Sri Lankan Missions abroad, supported by labour attachés, actively monitor wage trends and employer compliance, while also addressing grievances, including wage discrepancies, through direct engagement with relevant authorities and employers. In cases where Sri Lankan workers are offered lower wages than their counterparts from other countries despite performing similar roles, the Embassy intervenes diplomatically to resolve such disparities.

The Ministry also collaborates with regional and international platforms such as the Abu Dhabi Dialogue to stay aligned with best practices and policy innovations in labour migration. This multilateral engagement helps ensure that Sri Lankan workers benefit from comparable protections and compensation packages. Moreover, the Ministry enforces strict regulations on recruitment agencies within Sri Lanka to prevent contract manipulation or wage undercutting at the source level. Agencies found to be in violation of fair recruitment standards are subject to disciplinary action.

Overall, Sri Lanka’s strategy is rooted in fairness, transparency, and diplomatic engagement, ensuring that its migrant workers are treated equitably and competitively in the global labour market. Through continuous monitoring, international cooperation, and strong consular support, the Ministry remains fully committed to protecting the rights and welfare of Sri Lankan workers abroad.

However, the wages of migrant workers may vary depending on their skill level, competencies, job performance, and overall attitude.

Further, the SLBFE acknowledges the importance of conducting a wage comparison analysis and is considering initiating a study in collaboration with labour attachés and missions abroad.

4. What specific legal and diplomatic measures has the government taken to prevent wage exploitation, underpayment and contract violations affecting Sri Lankan migrant workers? 

The Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE) has taken several legal and diplomatic measures to protect Sri Lankan migrant workers from wage exploitation, contract violations, and non-payment of dues by foreign employers.

Specifically, Section 44 of the SLBFE Act No. 21 of 1985 empowers the Bureau to take action against foreign employment agencies and employers who breach employment contracts or fail to fulfil their obligations. The SLBFE may:

• Initiate inquiries and investigations into complaints received from migrant workers
• Take legal proceedings against errant licensed agencies
• Revoke or suspend the licenses of recruitment agencies violating employment conditions
• Recommend blacklisting of foreign employers who exploit Sri Lankan workers

In addition to the above, the SLBFE has established the following mechanisms and interventions:

• Pre-departure contract verification and attestation to ensure terms and wages are in line with host country laws and bilateral agreements.
• Deployment of officers for the Employment and Welfare Sections in Sri Lankan Missions abroad to handle grievances, mediate disputes, and liaise with foreign authorities.
• Collaboration with host country labour ministries and recruitment regulatory bodies to ensure the enforcement of fair labour standards.
• Blacklisting and banning of employers and agencies found guilty of wage-related abuses or contract violations.
• Emergency repatriation assistance and legal aid for victims of wage theft and abuse.

These measures are part of a broader national commitment to protect the rights and dignity of Sri Lankan migrant workers and to ensure fair and safe migration under international labour standards.

5. Given that Qatar has set a minimum wage of $ 494 per month, do Sri Lankan workers receive at least this amount? If not, why?

Yes. Qatar’s Ministry of Administrative Development, Labour and Social Affairs (MADLSA) enforces a minimum wage legislation for migrant workers, established under Law No.17 of 2020 and Ministerial Decision No. 25 of 2020.  Sri Lankan migrant workers in Qatar are entitled to receive the national minimum wage, which was implemented in March 2021. This legislation mandates a basic minimum wage of 1,000 Qatari riyals (approximately $275), along with allowances of 300 QAR for food and 500 QAR for accommodation if these are not provided directly by the employer. This brings the total minimum package (if the employer does not provide food and housing) to 1,800 QAR (around $494) per month. 

This minimum wage applies uniformly to all workers, regardless of nationality or sector, including domestic workers. It reflects Qatar’s broader labour reforms aimed at improving the rights and welfare of migrant workers.

The Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE), in close coordination with the Sri Lankan Embassy in Doha, continues to monitor compliance with these wage standards to ensure Sri Lankan workers receive their rightful entitlements. While many Sri Lankan workers earn at or above the stipulated minimum. If underpaid, a migrant worker can make complaints.

To address challenges such as delayed payments or unauthorised deductions, the Qatari authorities have introduced key safeguards, including the Workers’ Support and Insurance Fund, which provides compensation for unpaid wages. Both the Sri Lankan and Qatar governments remain engaged in constructive dialogue to strengthen the implementation of labour laws and uphold the rights of Sri Lankan workers through ongoing bilateral cooperation.

6. Filipino domestic workers in Saudi Arabia receive a minimum wage of $ 384 per month. What is the minimum wage for Sri Lankan domestic workers in Saudi Arabia and other Gulf Countries?

There is no uniform minimum wage for Sri Lankan domestic workers in the Gulf region at present. However, in Saudi Arabia, wages typically range from USD 250 to USD 350, depending on the contract and experience. The Philippines currently secures USD 400 for domestic workers due to its strict deployment policies and bilateral protections. Sri Lanka continues to advocate for better wages through diplomatic channels.

7. How does the Ministry monitor wage compliance by employers and recruitment agencies to ensure that Sri Lankan workers are not underpaid or exploited?

The Ministry, in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE), employs a multi-tiered monitoring mechanism to ensure wage compliance and protect Sri Lankan workers from underpayment and exploitation abroad.

This includes pre-departure verification of employment contracts to ensure alignment with agreed wage standards and legal requirements. The SLBFE also closely regulates and licenses recruitment agencies, conducts periodic audits, and enforces compliance with ethical recruitment guidelines, digital systems for worker registration and complaint management and post-arrival surveys and exit interviews to capture wage-related feedback.

At the destination level, Sri Lanka’s diplomatic missions play a proactive role in monitoring worker welfare, engaging with host country authorities, and addressing grievances through established labour attachés or welfare officers. Bilateral agreements further strengthen these mechanisms by providing for joint committees and dispute resolution frameworks.

8. Does the Ministry have plans to reintroduce a mandatory wage policy for Sri Lankan workers going abroad, similar to what was there in Sri Lanka in 2016. If so when?

The 2023 revision of the National Policy and Action Plan on Migration for Employment (2023–2027 emphasizes strengthening the protection and welfare of migrant workers. This forward-looking policy framework is grounded in the principles of decent work, protection of rights, and equitable treatment of Sri Lankan workers employed overseas. While the current framework does not include a reintroduced fixed mandatory minimum wage for outbound workers, it places strong emphasis on enhancing governance structures, promoting fair recruitment practices, and improving overall employment conditions in line with international standards.

In this context, the Ministry is giving due consideration to reviewing existing policies, including the potential reintroduction of a minimum wage mechanism for Sri Lankan migrant workers. This process is being approached with careful deliberation, taking into account stakeholder consultations, economic sustainability, and prevailing international practices. The objective is to ensure that any future policy decisions are balanced, evidence-based, and aligned with the overarching goal of safeguarding the dignity and livelihoods of Sri Lankan workers abroad.

9. Can Sri Lanka Foreign Employment Bureau through Sri Lankan recruiting agencies given guidelines to introduce minimum wage requirements to prevent underpayment of workers by employers in the Middle East?

Yes. SLBFE is working on issuing standard wage guideline benchmarks for licensed Sri Lankan recruitment agencies, especially for high-demand occupations, to minimize the risk of wage exploitation in host countries.

10. Will the Minister agree that since we have around 1.7 Million Sri Lankans working in the Middle East, such policy can help to earn a minimum of US Dollars 1.5 billion per year?

Indeed, with approximately 1.3 million Sri Lankan workers in the Middle East, the annual remittance potential is significant. Strengthening wage protection mechanisms and introducing clear wage standards can enhance worker welfare and foreign exchange earnings. The Ministry recognizes this and is actively formulating policy in this regard. (Newswire)

The post Salaries of Sri Lankan workers in Middle East : Govt responds to 10 key questions appeared first on Newswire.

Over 100,000 migrant workers registered with the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE) have left for overseas jobs so far in 2025.

According to the SLBFE, a total of 100,413 registered Sri Lankan migrant workers have left for overseas jobs since January this year.

Among them, those who left through self-registration are 64,150, and those who registered through foreign employment agencies are 36,263. The group includes 39,496 women and 60,917 men.

The largest number of registrations was for jobs in Kuwait, with 25,672 people having departed.

A total of 18,474 registered persons left for jobs in the United Arab Emirates, 14,162 for Qatar, and 12,625 for Saudi Arabia, during this period.   

The SLBFE reported that the persons had also registered for other countries and had already departed. 

The Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment added that it expects to send 340,000 people abroad this year. (Newswire)

The post 100,000 leave for foreign jobs in 2025 : Which country is in demand? appeared first on Newswire.

Minister Bimal Rathnayake says Sri Lanka will not dispatch migrant workers for jobs in Israel-held Palestinian lands. 

Speaking to reporters, Minister Rathnayake said, like several countries maintaining diplomatic and economic ties with Israel, Sri Lanka, too, has to continue, including sending migrant workers, for the benefit of the nation’s economy.

“If Sri Lanka suddenly ends ties with Israel, the economy will crash. It will also result in several Sri Lankan migrants currently employed in Israel losing their jobs. We cannot do this. Sri Lanka will act like several countries, including Saudi Arabia, China, and Russia, who stand with Palestine but continue ties with Israel for diplomatic and economic purposes,” he said. 

Minister Rathnayake explained that Sri Lanka cannot end diplomatic and economic ties with Israel over the Palestinian conflict, as it could be detrimental for Sri Lanka’s economy. 

“We believe in an independent Palestinian State and an Independent Israel State. Sri Lanka considers them as two separate Governments. As such, Sri Lanka will have to continue with political and economic ties with Israel,” he explained.

Minister Bimal Rathnayake reiterated that Sri Lanka stands strong on its stance for a free Palestinian State and condemns the killing of innocent lives by Israel. 

The minister made the remarks in response to questions raised by reporters on MP Rauff Hakeem’s recent statement that Sri Lanka should stop sending migrant workers to Israel for employment due to its attacks on Palestine.

“Rauff Hakeem was a minister for decades. During that period, too, Sri Lankan employees were sent to Israel and Israel was occupying and killing Palestinian people at that time. Why didn’t he try to stop sending Sri Lankan migrants to Israel while he was a minister under the Rajapaksha and Ranil Wickremesinghe regimes?” Minister Rathnayake questioned. (Newswire)

The post Minister Bimal explains Sri Lanka’s stand on Economic cooperation with Israel appeared first on Newswire.

The Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE) has announced various concessions for migrant workers registered with the SLBFE who are returning to Sri Lanka.

According to a SLBFE notice, the concessions are as follows; 

• If you are an aspiring entrepreneur or already have a business, assistance up to Rs. 1 million to be provided. 
• Those aspiring for self-employment or are already self-employed are to be provided with non-financial assistance of up to Rs. 150,000. 
• A grant to develop and promote an already successful Business/industry. 
• A one-time donation of stationery worth Rs. 10,000 if your child is completing their full education at a public, private, or religious school.
• If you’re a migrant worker who earned less than US$ 300 and returned to the country, and your child is studying at a public, private university or higher education institute, education tools up to Rs. 200,000 to be provided. (Newswire)

The post SLBFE announces concessions for returning migrant workers appeared first on Newswire.

Deputy Minister of Economic Development Anil Jayantha Fernando informed the Parliament that misinformation has been spread by a local newspaper claiming that the government has decided to impose a tax on remittances by Sri Lankan migrant workers. 

Addressing the Parliament today, Minister Anil Jayantha Fernando said that the Sunday newspaper claims that a 15% tax will be imposed on remittances of Sri Lankan migrant workers under the 2025 Budget. 

He pointed out that at a time when the 2025 Budget had been presented and passed in Parliament, this was an attempt to cause harm to the reputation of the government and himself, as the Deputy Minister of Economic Development.

Claiming that the newspaper article had violated his Parliamentary privileges by quoting him, he called on the Parliament to bring the matter before the Parliamentary Privileges Committee to investigate and take appropriate action against the newspaper. (Newswire)

The post Minister slams newspaper for fake news on Tax on migrant workers appeared first on Newswire.

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) – UN Migration, has facilitated the safe and voluntary repatriation of 53 Sri Lankan migrant workers from Lebanon, pursuant to an official request made by the Government of Sri Lanka due to the ongoing conflict in the region. 

Issuing a statement, the IOM said four groups of stranded migrants in extremely vulnerable situations were repatriated on 6, 12, and 28 November and most recently 04 December 2024.

The IOM further said that the repatriations were conducted in close coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism Sri Lanka, the Sri Lankan Embassy in Lebanon, and IOM Lebanon.

IOM said its missions in Sri Lanka and Lebanon worked closely to provide comprehensive assistance to the migrants. This included conducting vulnerability screenings, consular assistance and documentation support, organizing travel, offering pre-departure counselling, conducting pre-departure medical evaluations and managing logistics related to voluntary repatriation. Urgent medical needs were also addressed upon migrants’ return to Sri Lanka.

Remarking on the repatriation effort, Ms. Kristin Parco, Chief of Mission for IOM Sri Lanka stated, “The successful repatriation of stranded Sri Lankan migrants from Lebanon highlights the power of coordinated action. IOM Sri Lanka extends its sincere appreciation to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs,Foreign Employment, and Tourism, the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment, the Embassy of Sri

Lanka in Lebanon, and IOM Lebanon for the swift and effective efforts.” She further commended the unwavering commitment of the Sri Lankan Embassy in Lebanon in advocating for the well-being of stranded Sri Lankans, ensuring that their needs were prioritized and addressed amidst volatile circumstances.

An estimated 7,600 Sri Lankan migrant workers are currently in Lebanon. These repatriations mark a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to support and protect Sri Lankan nationals overseas, particularly those impacted by conflicts and crises. IOM said it remains resolute in its commitment to facilitating humanitarian returns and upholding the rights and welfare of all migrants. (Newswire)

The post IOM facilitates repatriation of 53 Lankan workers from Lebanon appeared first on Newswire.

Chairman of the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE) Koshala Wickremasinghe has taken measures to introduce a special programme to address the unresolved issues of migrant workers and to combat trafficking.  

The programme announced as ‘Talk to Chairman’ was launched at the SLBFE head office yesterday.

The SLBFE Chairman pointed out that migrant workers face undue pressure when leaving for foreign jobs, while officials and brokers of various ranks have intervened to exploit them for financial benefits.

Koshala Wickremasinghe assured that the new government will work to completely stop these activities. 

He further outlined the following measures taken to address issues faced by migrant workers;

• The ‘Talk to Chairman’ programme has been introduced via a special counter on the first floor of the SLBFE head office in Denzil Kobbekaduwa Mawatha. All types of accusations, criticisms, and grievances will be recorded here. 
• A complaint box has been installed, where solutions will be provided for the complaints received.
• Steps have been taken to protect the confidentiality of the complainant.
• Complaints can be registered via the telephone number 0112  864188, WhatsApp number 0717 593 593, or email talkchairman@slbfe.lk. 

“Any citizen can submit their complaint. They can submit complaints in various ways. Injustice caused by outsiders or by government officials can be reported. Regardless of any form of injustice, I will work irrespective of rank to provide solutions,” the SLBFE Chairman assured. 

The measures are being implemented to provide a proper system to address the problems of migrant workers and to provide a more favourable service to the people. (Newswire)

The post “Talk to Chairman” new program to address issues of migrant workers appeared first on Newswire.

The National Peoples’ Power (NPP) has filed a complaint with the National Election Commission alleging that former Minister Rajitha Senaratne had threatened Sri Lankan migrant workers against arriving to cast their ballots in the 2024 Presidential Election.

In its complaint filed yesterday, the NPP pointed out that Minister Rajitha Senaratne, who had extended his support for President Ranil Wickremesinghe in the upcoming polls, had made the threat in the presence of media, which has now been released on social media.

Pointing out that this was a hindrance to conducting a free and fair election, the NPP points out that it is a violation of election laws. (Newswire)

The post NPP lodges complaint with EC against Rajitha’s ‘threat’ to expats appeared first on Newswire.

Sri Lankan migrant workers in Bangladesh have not been harmed in the recent unrest reported in the country, Minister of Labour and Foreign Employment Manusha Nanayakkara said. 

Speaking in Parliament today, Minister Manusha Nanayakkara said a total of 2835 Sri Lankans are living in Bangladesh from 2019 to date.

“A total of 2690 Sri Lankans were sent as trainees, among which 107 are women and 2583 are men. A total of 145 Sri Lankans were sent as low-skilled migrant workers, among which 06 are women and 139 are men,” he said giving a breakdown of the Sri Lankans residing in Bangladesh at present. 

Minister Manusha Nanayakkara said that the Sri Lankan Embassy in Bangladesh has informed that no Sri Lankans have been injured in the unrest in Bangladesh. 

“If there is a situation where Sri Lankan migrant workers need to be brought home, the Sri Lankan Embassy will ensure their safety and take the necessary measures as and when required,” he assured. 

Clashes between protesters and security forces killed at least 139 people across Bangladesh after the high court last month reinstated job reservations removed by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government in 2018.

However, the Supreme Court ordered that 93% of government jobs should be allocated on the basis of merit, against earlier quotas of 56% for groups such as families of freedom fighters, women, and people from underdeveloped areas.

More than 500 people, including some opposition leaders, have been arrested so far over days of clashes in the Bangladeshi capital Dhaka. (Newswire)

The post Crisis in Bangladesh : Update on Lankan migrant workers appeared first on Newswire.

A programme to provide returning migrant workers with seed capital to support self-employment ventures was launched in Kurunegala by the President on Sunday. 

The inauguration ceremony of the “Wigamanika Harasara” initiative, which aims to recognize the impact of migrant workers on the Sri Lankan economy, was held at the Sathyawadi Ground in Kurunegala yesterday. 

To assess the contribution of migrant workers to Sri Lanka’s economy, the “Wigamanika Harasara” programme was launched across the country, beginning in the North West Province. 

Approximately 5,000 migrants from the Kurunegala, Puttalam, Anuradhapura, Matale, and Kegalle districts participated in this initiative, the President’s Media Division said. 

During the event, President Ranil Wickremesinghe awarded Rs. 50,000 each to migrant workers as seed capital to support their self-employment ventures under a welfare benefits program managed by the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE). 

This initiative aims to empower the migrant community economically and socially, confirm their rights, and gather ideas and proposals for policy development. 

The President took the opportunity to personally engage with migrant workers, inquiring about their well-being and participating in friendly conversations.

Addressing the event, President Ranil Wickremesinghe announced plans to ensure returning migrant workers can live with dignity after completing their service abroad. He thanked these workers for their vital contributions to foreign exchange during the recent economic crisis, acknowledging their crucial role in advancing the country’s economy.

“The government has provided support to migrant workers returning after earning foreign exchange to help them start a new chapter in their lives. This support is not a reward or grant, but a right earned through their dedicated service. Many returning individuals may find their old jobs no longer suitable for their aspirations, and this program is designed to assist those with the drive and determination to forge a new path. I encourage you to make the most of this opportunity.

“During the country’s economic crisis, your contributions to foreign exchange were crucial for our recovery. Without such support, our economy would not have been able to stabilize. When I took over, the country was in severe decline, with shortages of fuel, and fertilizer, and a bleak future ahead. In those early months, we faced numerous challenges. Without the money you sent, we would not have been able to navigate these difficulties,” he said.

The President pointed out that thanks to the timely provision of fertilizers, the government achieved a successful harvest in recent seasons, which has significantly advanced the economy.

“Every dollar you sent was invaluable, and I extend my gratitude to all of you. Your contributions enabled us to celebrate the Sinhala New Year, Vesak, and Poson festivals with great success.

“We must continue to advance and develop our country, as relying on loans alone cannot sustain our economy. While we have received concessions to help repay foreign loans, merely servicing the debt is insufficient. We need to boost our foreign exchange reserves, which require borrowing until we reach our target amount. However, this increases our debt, so efforts must focus on enhancing our foreign exchange inflow,” he said.

Stating that formal training for those seeking foreign employment is essential, the President revealed he has advised the subject minister to develop a program that equips returning workers with advanced professional skills. 

“Additionally, we should shift towards an export-driven economy, attract foreign investments, and increase tourism. This new approach will guide our country toward further development.

“We also need to focus on advancing agriculture in the country, particularly by increasing paddy production. To support this, we have initiated an agricultural modernization program. As a country, we must move forward with confidence. While large-scale companies are attracting more investors, which is promising, my goal is to also uplift the common people. We have launched programs to address this,” he said.

President Wickremesinghe further said that the “Aswesuma” and “Urumaya” programs have been introduced to ensure that everyone in the country receives their rights.

“Additionally, Rs.50 billion has been allocated to provide essential loans for small and medium-sized businesses. This initiative is part of our broader effort to foster ground-level progress as the country develops.

“In building an export-driven economy, it is crucial for individuals to focus on their village’s economic development as well. While we are committed to national economic growth, we are also providing support for local development. The future of our country is at stake, and there is no room for complacency. Politics should not be about false promises or superficial interactions; it’s about making informed decisions for the future. I remind you of the important responsibility you hold in this process,” he added.

Also addressing the event, Minister of Labour and Foreign Employment Manusha Nanayakkara said Sri Lanka has been able to stand strong as a country because of its foreign employees. 

“In 2019, foreign workers sent USD 6.1 billion to Sri Lanka. By 2022, this amount had decreased to USD 3 billion. However, this year, these dedicated individuals have already sent USD 12 billion, bolstering the program led by President Ranil Wickremesinghe. Despite attempts by some political leaders to deter them from sending money for political reasons, these national heroes have remained committed.

“President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s economic programs have successfully encouraged foreign workers to resume sending money to Sri Lanka, providing the necessary foreign exchange for the country’s basic needs. The government has introduced several special initiatives to support these workers, such as offering vehicle licenses, gifts, and certificates to those who have travelled abroad more than six times. These programs aim to recognize and honour migrant workers. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for your invaluable service,” he said.

Minister Nanayakkara added that the government is working to provide the facilities needed to help migrant workers become entrepreneurs. (Newswire)

The post Govt backs migrant workers’ self-employment ventures with seed capital appeared first on Newswire.

The Sri Lankan High Commission in Singapore organized an outreach programme for around 200 Sri Lankan female migrant workers to educate them on certain areas and foster a strong relationship with the Mission.

According to the Sri Lankan High Commission, the event was held at Caritas Village in April with the main objective of empowering Sri Lankan female migrant workers.

The programme was organized in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Business Association of Singapore, the second such event organized by the High Commission since September 2023.

Addressing the gathering, the High Commissioner of Sri Lanka in Singapore Senarath Dissanayake acknowledged the significant contribution made by the migrant workforce towards Sri Lanka’s economy. He highlighted the importance of empowering the migrant workforce and maintaining their standards and efficiency. High Commissioner Dissanayake said that the Labor Section of the High Commission is committed towards the welfare, safety, and security of the Sri Lankan migrant workers in Singapore and that it can be contacted round the clock for assistance.

President of the Sri Lanka Business Association Lakshanthi Fernando highlighted the importance of educating migrant workers and expressed delight on the success of this year’s event. Counsellor and Head of the Labor Section of the High Commission of Sri Lanka in Singapore Nipuna Thibbutumunuwa emphasized the significance of the event and requested the participants to derive valuable insights for their lives, aligning with the event’s primary objective.

Resource persons from the Ministry of Manpower of Singapore (MoM), Singapore Police Force (SPF) and Foreign Domestic Worker Association for Social Support and Training (FAST) briefed the participants on their specialized areas through comprehensive presentations.

All attendees received a certificate of participation endorsed by the High Commission of Sri Lanka and partnering agencies in Singapore, including the Singapore Ministry of Manpower (MOM), Singapore Police Force (SPF), Association of Employment Agencies – Singapore (AEAS), Foreign Domestic Worker Association for Social Support and Training (FAST), Centre for Domestic Employees (CDE), Humanitarian Organization for Migration Economics (HOME), and AIDHA. (Newswire)

The post Outreach programme organized for Sri Lankan migrant workers in Singapore appeared first on Newswire.

Cabinet approval has been granted for the implementation of a housing programme for Sri Lankans employed overseas. 

The Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE) in collaboration with the National Housing Development Authority and licensed banks has planned to implement a housing programme for overseas employees.

It is expected to grant a maximum of Rs.10 million as a loan grant and a portion of its loan interest amount is to be contributed by the SLBFE. 

As per the proposal, the loan amount obtained under the proposed loan scheme should be paid by foreign exchange remitted through legitimate channels within the period the loan receiver is engaged in overseas employment.

Payments would be made in Sri Lankan rupees once the foreign employment is completed and the Sri Lankan migrant worker returns to the country. 

Accordingly, the Cabinet approved the proposal submitted by the Minister of Labour and Foreign Employment to implement the proposed housing programme. (NewsWire)

The post Govt to implement housing programme for Sri Lankans employed overseas appeared first on Newswire.