Over 15,000 Foreign Citizens Receive Work Permits in Afghanistan in Past Four Years

Afghanistan's Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs announced that more than 15,000 foreign citizens have received work permits over the past four years, mostly from China, Turkey and Iran, and have been employed primarily in the private sector.

Samiullah Ebrahimi, spokesperson for the ministry, stated that work permits for foreign citizens are valid for one year. He said permits are extended if there is continued need for their services, otherwise the workers return to their countries. Opportunities in the private sector are provided based on requirements.

In a chapli kebab factory in Kabul, Pakistani citizen Mohammad Mia has worked in the technical section for 10 years. He said he came from Pakistan to work in his specialized field and earn better income, noting that 1,000 Afghanis equals 4,500 Pakistani rupees. He added that Pakistan lacks electricity and business opportunities.

Factory manager Mohammad Azam Yusufi said the presence of such foreign specialists is important for production and machinery, providing facilities and experience transfer. Afghan worker Abdul Rahman described Mohammad Mia as a good colleague who repairs machines easily, adding that local workers have learned from him.

The ministry's announcement comes amid growing industrial activities and investments in Afghanistan, increasing the need for skilled labor in some sectors. Officials note that foreign specialists working alongside locals can help develop skills and strengthen the production sector.