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Laos has suspended the issuance of new work permits, plans to import Bangladeshi workers and approval of labour projects involving Bangladeshi nationals until the end of 2026.
The suspension took effect on September 1, according to a report published by The Laotian Times on September 14, citing a directive issued by Laos’ Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare on September 9.
The ministry said the measure was aimed at curbing illegal entry, human trafficking, unauthorised labour suppliers and employers who evade responsibility after bringing workers from abroad.
However, the directive did not specify why the measures were introduced specifically for Bangladeshi workers.
According to Bangladesh’s Bureau of Manpower, Employment and Training (BMET), around 3,000 Bangladeshi workers obtained clearance to travel to Laos during the first eight months of this year.
Laos ranked 13th among the countries receiving Bangladeshi workers during the period, up from 16th last year, when 3,835 Bangladeshi workers obtained clearance to travel there.
There have been allegations of Bangladeshi nationals being subjected to abuse and involvement in criminal activities in Laos.
According to The Laotian Times, major priority projects approved by the Lao government with predetermined work schedules will remain outside the scope of the suspension.
Under the directive, individuals, companies, employers and labour-supply agencies will not be allowed to independently bring Bangladeshi nationals into Laos or employ them. Approval of labour visas (LA-B2) for Bangladeshis will also remain suspended until the end of 2026.
Violations could result in fines, deportation and cancellation of business licences.
Employers bringing or hiring workers without approval will face a fine of 2.5 million Lao kip ($110) per worker for each violation. The same fine will apply when workers are brought for another labour unit.
Employers using or accepting workers assigned to another labour unit will face a fine of 2 million kip ($89) per worker for each violation.
Workers who work outside their authorised workplace without permission will face a fine of 1 million kip ($44) per violation and will be deported within 30 days. The employer or responsible party must bear all costs related to their return.
Repeat offences will attract fines three times higher, along with possible legal action.
The directive did not state how many Bangladeshis are currently working in Laos or which sectors would be most affected by the suspension. Bangladeshi workers in Laos are mainly employed in construction and manufacturing.
