The Lao government has temporarily suspended the recruitment of Bangladeshi workers and freezing the issuance of work permits and entry visas (LA-B2) until December 31, 2026.
Following official confirmation from Lao authorities, the Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment issued an urgent public warning advising prospective migrants not to travel to Laos and to stay vigilant against fraudulent recruiting agencies.
The Bangladesh Embassy in Laos contacted the Lao Ministry of Foreign Affairs to verify widespread media and social media reports regarding job opportunities. Lao officials confirmed that restrictions took effect on September 1.
The Ministry has urged jobseekers not to fall for fake visas or false promises by unauthorized agents, emphasizing that all overseas job offers and visa details must be verified through official channels before making any financial or travel commitment.
Despite the ban the Bureau of Manpower, Employment and Training (BMET) records reveal that 715 Bangladeshi workers received clearance for Laos between September 1 and October 5.
Addressing the situation, BMET Deputy Director Mizanur Rahman clarified that these clearances were granted exclusively to workers whose visas had already been issued and attested prior to the market closure. He confirmed that no new clearances have been issued since the suspension took effect.
