Content Group 6 of Afghanistan

Foreign Worker Permits

The Foreigners Employment law in Afghanistan stipulates that foreigners can be employed on the basis of a work permit issued by the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs. Work permits are issued for one year and are renewable. Foreign citizens travelling to Afghanistan for employment need to obtain business visas and work permits.

Localisation Requirements

The employment of foreign workers is allowed, but a 2005 labour regulation requires that priority be given to equally qualified Afghan workers.

Visa/Travel Restrictions

Citizens of all countries require a visa to visit Afghanistan. Exemptions apply to visitors born in Afghanistan or born to Afghan parents, as well as for holders of diplomatic or service passports of mainland China, India (diplomatic only), Indonesia, Iran, Tajikistan and Turkey for visits of up to 30 days.

Security is a concern for foreigners travelling to Afghanistan due to the threat from terrorism, armed conflict and kidnapping. It is advised that no foreigners travel to Afghanistan unless travel is essential (although essential travel is restricted to only a few areas, including Kabul). Owing to the ongoing conflict in Afghanistan, any foreign workers sent to the country will need high levels of security or protection as well as additional compensation. Foreign workers would need to be paid a danger pay of approximately 35% of their basic compensation as well as a hardship pay of 35% of their basic compensation on top of their normal wages or salaries.

Sources: Government websites, US Department of Commerce, Fitch Solutions