Labour Ministry Tightens Work Permit Regulations | News

The Ministry of Labour has introduced stricter requirements for new work permit applications, mandating that all business entities, concessionaires, and members of the public must first demonstrate that available positions have been publicly advertised and that no suitably qualified Liberian citizens are available before foreign workers can be considered.

According to a Ministry of Labour press release, the directive—contained in a communication signed by Labour Minister Cllr. Cooper W. Kruah, Sr.—serves as a formal reminder of the established procedures governing work permit processing in Liberia.

Under the new enforcement measure, all new work permit applications must be accompanied by proof that the job vacancies were advertised widely. The Ministry specified that such advertisements must be published in two local newspapers, broadcast on two local radio stations, and posted on two Liberian websites, including the Ministry of Labour’s official website.

The advertisements must run for a minimum period of thirty (30) days, ensuring sufficient public visibility and access for qualified Liberian job seekers.

In addition to proof of advertisement, employers are also required to submit evidence demonstrating the non-availability of suitably qualified Liberian citizens for the positions being sought.

The Ministry emphasized that the directive is grounded in existing legal provisions, noting that it is consistent with Chapter 45.1, Sub-section 45.1(c)(i) of the Decent Work Act of 2015 of the Republic of Liberia, as well as Section 6 of Revised Regulation No. 17 of 2019.

Minister Kruah reiterated that the policy is designed to ensure that qualified Liberian citizens are given full opportunity to compete for available jobs before consideration is given to foreign applicants.

He stressed that the measure is part of government efforts to strengthen local employment opportunities and promote fair participation of Liberians in the labor market.

The Ministry further urged all business houses and concessionaires to strictly comply with the requirement when submitting new work permit applications, warning that failure to meet the conditions may affect processing outcomes.