Erbil, Kurdistan Region, 15 July 2024 — In a significant move to prioritize local employment, the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has introduced stricter regulations on foreign labor, allowing only 25% of job opportunities to be allocated to non-domestic workers. This policy, outlined in Article 172 by the Council of Ministers, is designed to ensure that 75% of jobs are reserved for local residents.

The Directorate of Erbil Residency reports that in the first six months of 2024, they processed over 700 migrant workers' applications for residence extensions or leave to remain. Remarkably, more than 60,000 workers from 88 countries applied for residency cards or renewals within this period.

Fatima, an Indonesian housekeeper who has been working in the Kurdistan Region for seven years, shared her experience with Kurdistan 24, stating, "I have been working in the Kurdistan Region, the job opportunity is better over here." She has recently applied to extend her residence.

Kamil Mohammed, the Director of Erbil Residency, emphasized in an interview on Monday that the new residency status procedures adhere to the 75% by 25% rule and follow the Minister of Interior's instructions. He noted, "The procedure of granting residence status is according to the new rule (75% by 25%), and following the instructions from the Minister of Interior."

The tightening of foreign labor regulations reflects Kurdistan's commitment to securing more job opportunities for its local population. "At the same time having too many requests, those are encouraged by countries to head to Kurdistan Region seeking job opportunities, but by law we provide it to our own people,” Mohammed added.

Due to the updated regulations, which include the Social Security Fund benefits, terms, and conditions of Employer’s Sponsoring, and Article 172 by the Council of Ministers, over 200 foreign workers have had their applications refused and have returned to their home countries.

These measures underscore the KRG's focus on bolstering local employment and ensuring that the benefits of economic opportunities in the region are primarily enjoyed by its residents.