SLBFE Introduces New Rule for Self-Employed Migrant Workers from July 2025 – What Every Migrant Must Know

Sri Lanka’s Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE) is set to roll out a new policy framework effective from July 1, 2025. These changes will affect Sri Lankans looking for self-directed jobs overseas. SLBFE Chairman Kosala Wickramasinghe states that the rule covers 15 non-professional categories across 13 countries. Applicants must get their foreign job contracts certified at Sri Lankan diplomatic missions abroad before registering with the Bureau. There is a fee of USD 60 per application to ensure contract authenticity and prevent exploitation.

Who Must Follow the New Rule?

The regulation only applies to non-professional migrant categories found on the SLBFE website, which involve domestic workers, drivers and care staff. Professionals like doctors and engineers may not need to comply if they can show passports or documentary evidence that they were professionals overseas.

Why Certify Contracts at Embassies?

SLBFE explained that the certificate process establishes transparency and protection. When a migrant verifies the terms of their contract before leaving, they are less exposed to job fraud or changes to the contract, long-term or forced labour. This accomplishment is consistent with what has previously been put forward by the SLBFE.

What Are the Future Requirements?

Effective Date – July 1, 2025.

Certification Required – Prior to SLBFE Registration.

Fee – USD 60 per contract.

Coverage – 15 non-professional classifications in 13 countries.

Exemptions – Professionals with supporting evidence.

This policy indicates Sri Lanka’s ongoing commitment to ethical migration practices and internationally established standards for protecting workers. Migrants will need to start using embassy services very early if they are going to start completing the new requirements. Employers, migration agencies and future migrants need to get into the SLBF guidelines as soon as possible to ensure they will meet all the requirements and protect worker welfare.