The Ministry of Labor has announced a temporary allowance for men aged 18 to 35 to work abroad through licensed agencies. This decision follows a request from these agencies after a sudden suspension of the overseas labor deployment process.
Previously, the eligible age range for men seeking employment abroad was 23 to 31. However, on January 30, the ministry expanded the age range to 18 to 35 but simultaneously halted the processing of applications. This abrupt suspension caused significant disruptions for both workers and agencies, prompting urgent appeals for reconsideration.
“When operations were suddenly suspended, agencies faced many challenges. We requested the Ministry of Labor to allow workers who had already signed contracts to proceed with their applications. Today, they confirmed that those with signed contracts can apply for OWIC cards through the labor office until January 30,” stated an official from a licensed agency.
Despite this temporary allowance, individuals approved for military service will not be permitted to leave the country.
“Although those with signed contracts until January 30 are allowed to depart, the process remains uncertain. If a worker’s name appears on the military service list at the airport, they will be denied departure. This situation creates difficulties for both workers and agencies. Initially, the ministry suspended all deployments, but after appeals from agencies, they made an exception for pre-existing contracts. If additional issues arise at the airport, workers may face further obstacles,” explained a source familiar with the labor agency community.
At present, only men aged 18 to 35 with contracts signed before January 30 are permitted to work abroad. Other men within this age group remain temporarily restricted from overseas employment.
Notably, no age restrictions have been placed on female workers, who continue to be allowed to seek employment abroad without interruption.