The government launched several initiatives to strengthen migrant worker welfare in 2025, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism reported.
Deputy Minister Hemachandra outlined the introduction of the Migrant Worker Housing Scheme, providing housing loans of up to LKR 10 million with support from state and private sector banks. A welfare programme was also implemented in collaboration with the Presidential Fund.
Additionally, the ministry established a 24/7 SLBFE call centre integrated with WhatsApp, SMS, and digital dashboards, and plans to launch a Migrant Worker Facilitation Mobile Application. A new Foreign Employment Act, currently under formulation, will align the sector with international best practices.
