Iran Welcomes 400,000 Authorized Foreign Workers: A Boost to the Economy!

In recent discussions surrounding the employment of foreign workers in Iran, it has been revealed that approximately 400,000 foreign nationals are legally employed in the country. This highlights the significant role these workers play in the Iranian labor market, particularly those from Afghanistan. Ali Baqeri, an official from the Ministry of Cooperatives, Labor and Social Welfare, shared insights into the employment landscape for foreign nationals in Iran.

Baqeri emphasized that while many foreign workers are legally employed, a considerable number remain unauthorized. He stated, “If Iranian employers are interested in hiring/employing foreign workers, they should apply for a legal permission.” This statement underscores the importance of adhering to legal procedures when employing foreign nationals.

Employment Regulations for Foreign Nationals

Regarding the employment of foreign nationals, Baqeri outlined several key points:

• Application for Work Permits: Employers must apply for legal permission to hire foreign workers.
• Reemployment Procedures: Foreign nationals wishing to return to Iran for work can apply for a passport and work visa if requested by their Iranian employers.
• Work Duration: Foreign workers are permitted to stay and work in Iran for nine months before returning to their home countries for a three-month period.
• Online Visa Applications: A special online platform is available for obtaining work visas.

Moreover, Baqeri assured that all employed refugees in Iran would be covered by health insurance. Employers are responsible for ensuring the legal presence and safety of their employees, holding them accountable to relevant authorities if necessary. This initiative aims to transition foreign workers from the informal to the formal employment market, contributing to better organization within the labor sector.

Ongoing Support Programs for Refugees

Iran has implemented several support programs to assist foreign nationals, including:

• Comprehensive Refugee Registration Plan (Amayesh): This plan facilitates the registration and employment of refugees.
• Family Passport Plan: This initiative allows family members of refugees to receive annual residence and work permits.
• Refugee Programs: Ongoing support programs for Afghan refugees continue to be available.

On October 7, Kim Eling, Senior Advisor to the Director-General of the International Organization for Migration (IOM), praised Iran for its efforts in hosting and providing services to Afghan refugees. In a meeting with Iranian Deputy Interior Minister Mohammad Bathaei, Eling acknowledged the challenges faced due to the reduction in aid from donor countries, which hampers the progress of various projects.

The Iranian official responded by highlighting that, “despite unilateral coercive sanctions, Iran has provided significant services to foreign nationals.” He expressed hope that donor countries would fulfill their responsibilities by allocating appropriate aid to support ongoing projects within Iran.

Annual UNHCR Executive Committee Session

During the 76th annual session of the Executive Committee of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), held from October 6 to 10 in Geneva, various discussions took place regarding refugee assistance and international obligations. Key activities included:

• Engagement with UN Officials: Meetings with the High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi, and the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Disaster Risk Reduction, Kamal Kishore.
• Program and Budget Review: The Executive Committee reviews and approves the agency’s programs and budget annually.
• International Protection Discussion: Addressing a range of issues related to international protection and support for refugees.

In August, Iranian Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni reported that over 1.2 million Afghan nationals, primarily undocumented migrants, had left Iran within the past year. The eastern borders of Khorasan Razavi province recorded the highest number of departures. Momeni clarified that the government is not planning to deport documented and authorized refugees, stating, “We are only deporting the two million Afghans who are illegally residing in Iran.”

He further noted, “Iran is not an anti-immigrant country, as it is hosting six million foreign nationals.” Since the beginning of the current Iranian year on March 21, approximately 800,000 undocumented refugees have left the country. Momeni highlighted the contributions of these individuals, referring to them as “honorable people who have contributed to the country’s production.”

In conclusion, the Iranian government maintains a commitment to managing foreign labor and supporting refugees amidst ongoing challenges. The emphasis on legal employment and the provision of health insurance for foreign workers illustrates Iran’s efforts to create a more organized and supportive labor environment.