Foreign Employment: All You Need To Know For Nepali Workers
Foreign employment has been a major source of income for Nepali workers for many years. In 2021, remittances from Nepali workers abroad amounted to $8.8 billion, which is about 25% of Nepal's GDP.
There are many pros and cons to foreign employment for Nepali workers. On the one hand, it can provide a much higher income than is possible in Nepal. It can also be a way to gain new skills and experience, and to see the world. On the other hand, foreign employment can be risky. Workers may face exploitation, abuse, and discrimination. They may also have to work long hours in difficult conditions.
Here are some of the pros and cons of foreign employment for Nepali workers:
Advantages:
- Higher-income: Foreign workers can earn much higher salaries than they could in Nepal. This can help them to improve their standard of living and to support their families.
- New skills and experience: Foreign workers can gain new skills and experience in their field of work. This can help them to advance their careers when they return to Nepal.
- Seeing the world: Foreign workers can have the opportunity to see the world and to experience different cultures. This can be a rewarding and enriching experience.
Risks and Disadvantages:
- Exploitation, abuse, and discrimination: Foreign workers may face exploitation, abuse, and discrimination in their host countries. They may be paid less than the minimum wage, or they may be forced to work long hours in dangerous conditions. They may also be denied basic rights, such as the right to freedom of movement and the right to join a union.
- Risk of accidents and illness: Foreign workers may be at risk of accidents and illness in their host countries. They may not have access to adequate healthcare, and they may not be able to speak the local language, which can make it difficult to get help in an emergency.
- Homesickness and loneliness: Foreign workers may experience homesickness and loneliness. They may miss their families and friends, and they may find it difficult to adjust to a new culture.
Conclusion
Foreign employment can be a good option for Nepali workers who are looking for a higher income and new opportunities. However, it is important to be aware of the risks involved before making a decision to work abroad.
Here are some tips for Nepali workers who are considering foreign employment:
- Do your research: Before you decide to work abroad, it is important to do your research and understand the risks involved. Talk to other Nepali workers who have worked in your chosen destination, and read up on the laws and regulations in that country.
- Get a good contract: Once you have found a job offer, be sure to get a good contract. This should include details of your salary, working hours, and benefits.
- Be prepared to deal with culture shock: When you first arrive in your host country, you may experience culture shock. This is a normal reaction to being in a new and unfamiliar environment. Be patient with yourself, and give yourself time to adjust.
- Stay connected with your family and friends: It is important to stay connected with your family and friends back home. This will help you to feel less lonely and homesick.
If you are considering foreign employment, be sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully. It is important to choose a destination that is a good fit for you and to be prepared for the challenges that you may face.