Laos suspends work permits and labour visas for Bangladeshis

Laos has suspended the issuance of new work permits, labour-import approvals and labour project clearances for Bangladeshi nationals until the end of 2026, according to a directive from the country’s Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare.

The suspension took effect on September 1, with the ministry issuing the directive on September 9.

It cited concerns over irregular entry, human trafficking, unauthorised labour brokers and employers bringing in workers without taking responsibility for them.

The directive does not specify why the restrictions apply specifically to Bangladeshi nationals.

Under the new rules, individuals, companies, employers and labour-recruitment agencies will not be allowed to facilitate the entry or employment of Bangladeshi workers in Laos. Labour visas for Bangladeshi nationals will also remain suspended through December 2026.

Government-approved priority projects operating under valid contracts will be exempt from the suspension.

Employers found importing or hiring workers without approval will face a fine of 2.5 million Lao kip, or about $110, for each worker and each violation. Employers accepting or using workers transferred without approval will face a fine of 2 million kip, or about $89, per worker.

Workers who leave their designated workplace without authorisation and take up employment elsewhere can be fined 1 million kip, or about $44, per person and violation, and may be deported within 30 days. The employer or responsible party must cover the deportation costs.

Repeat violations will attract fines three times higher, along with possible legal action.

The directive provides no estimate of the number of Bangladeshi nationals currently working in Laos or details on which sectors will be most affected. Bangladeshi labour migration to Laos has historically been concentrated in construction and manufacturing.

Source: The Laotian Times