The Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE) will introduce a new regulation from July 01, 2025, for Sri Lankans seeking overseas employment through self-directed means, SLBFE Chairman Kosala Wickramasinghe announced.
Under the new rule, those applying must have their foreign employment agreement certified by producing necessary documents to the Sri Lankan diplomatic mission in the respective country before registering with the SLBFE.
This process will involve a fee of USD 60.
According to the SLBFE Chairman, the rule will apply to only non-professional categories which are listed on the website of the bureau.
Under the first phase, it will apply to only 15 categories that are provided diplomatic services in 13 countries where labour units of the SLBFE are underway.
The SLBFE says that this move is aimed at safeguarding the rights of migrant workers by ensuring contract authenticity and transparency, prior to departure.
Exemptions will be granted to those who can present passports indicating their profession or relevant documentation proving their professional status abroad.