SLBFE Chairman, Mr. Koshala Wickramasinghe, regarding the E-8 visa system and illegal agreements concerning foreign employment in South Korea.Mr. Wickramasinghe clarifies that no private foreign employment agency in Sri Lanka is authorized to send workers to South Korea or to collect money under the E-8 visa system. He emphasizes that this visa arrangement, which was discussed between the two countries since 2019, had not progressed due to various concerns, including the short duration of the visa (4 Y 5M months) and the low salaries that come with it. These issues contribute to potential illegal overstaying by workers, which poses significant risks for both workers and bilateral relations.
He also sheds light on an illegal agreement made in April 2024 by a former Sri Lankan minister, who signed an unauthorized deal with the governor of Wando province in South Korea. This was done without the necessary cabinet or government approvals. As a result, the South Korean government has advised against the use of this visa system to avoid illegal immigration and the potential loss of legitimate employment opportunities.
The Chairman further warns job seekers in Sri Lanka against paying any fees for the E-8 visa and urges the public to report any illegal activity related to this visa. He underscores that legitimate opportunities through the E-9 visa, which allows longer-term employment for nearly 5 years, should not be jeopardized by these unlawful schemes.
In conclusion, the SLBFE is committed to maintaining lawful foreign employment arrangements with South Korea, urging a careful and regulated approach to avoid any diplomatic or legal complications.
