Recommendation to Suspend New Work Permits for Gulf Region Amid Rising Conflicts

Kathmandu, March 29 – It has been advised to temporarily halt the issuance of new work permits for individuals seeking foreign employment in the Gulf region and other conflict-affected countries. Labor, Employment and Social Security Minister Deepak Kumar Sah conveyed this guidance during a virtual meeting with labor attachés stationed worldwide. The recommendation comes in response to escalating security risks in the Gulf countries and Israel amid ongoing tensions between Israel and the United States, as well as conflict with Iran.

In light of the deteriorating security situation, the Ministry of Labor had suspended the issuance of new work permits starting February 28 for Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, Iraq, Yemen, Jordan, Lebanon, Turkey, and Israel. Among these, work permit issuance has been resumed for seven countries. Labor attachés participating in today’s virtual meeting advised against issuing new work permits under the current circumstances. As Ministry spokesperson Pitamber Ghimire stated, “Issuing renewed permits for workers returning from leave, those who have arrived back in Nepal, or are being recalled by their companies, is appropriate. However, granting new work permits with the intent to send workers abroad for a short period is not considered advisable at this time.”

The discussions also covered accommodations, health screenings, workplace safety, and other concerns for Nepali workers currently employed in the affected countries across the Middle East and Western Asia. Spokesperson Ghimire noted that the complex situation and the challenges faced by migrant workers in these regions were thoroughly reviewed. Measures regarding the regular use of allocated funds for Safe Houses and Shelters operated by the Foreign Employment Board, timely reporting to relevant authorities, and effective information dissemination to destination countries through embassies, labor consulters, and attachés were integral topics discussed.

Additionally, the meeting addressed efforts to promptly investigate complaints and information received. Draft standards for Safe Houses and Shelters run by embassies were also deliberated, aiming to improve the welfare provisions for Nepali migrant workers abroad.