Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE) - slbfe.lk

The Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment is technically the official government body which oversees and promotes overseas employment, a division of the Sri Lankan government bodies. The SLBFE mandate is pursued through the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment in accordance with the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment Act No. 21 of 1985 and it is responsible for the protection, welfare, and rights of migrant workers from Sri Lanka and ethical recruitments in licensed agencies.

The bureau is an integral part of the economy in Sri Lanka as it enables safe migration and protects the interest of the Sri Lankan workers in foreign countries.

Key Responsibilities of SLBFE

The SLBFE undertakes various functions to support both job seekers and recruitment agencies. Its primary responsibilities include

Regulating foreign employment agencies through licensing and monitoring
Providing pre-departure training to workers on legal rights, work culture, and language
Registering migrant workers before departure
Offering legal and welfare support for workers abroad
Monitoring and investigating complaints against unethical recruitment practices
Facilitating repatriation and compensation for distressed workers

SLBFE Contact Details

Head Office Address	No. 234, Denzil Kobbekaduwa Mawatha, Koswatta, Battaramulla, Sri Lanka
Hotline	1989 / (+94)11 2 880 500
Only for Foreign Countries	(+94) 71 9 802 822
Fax	+94 11 2864103
Email	info@slbfe.lk
Website	https://www.slbfe.lk
Facebook	https://www.facebook.com/slbfeOfficial
YouTube	https://www.youtube.com/@srilankabureauofforeignemp
Important Links
Tenders/ Notices	https://www.slbfe.lk/tenders-notices
Overseas Employment Guidebook	Download PDF

SLBFE e-Services List

Offering a suite of e-services to expedite procedures for employers, recruitment companies, and migrant workers, the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE) These services seek to improve convenience, lower physical visits, and guarantee open and safe access to foreign job sites.

E-Service	Description	Full Details and Instructions
Online Worker Registration	Migrant workers can register online before leaving Sri Lanka. Required document uploads and fee payments can be done through the portal. Digital registration certificate is provided.	Click Here
Foreign Job Vacancies Portal	Search for approved job vacancies by destination country, job category, or agency. Ensures job offers are verified by SLBFE.	Click Here
SLBFE Agency Verification	Allows the public to verify if a recruitment agency is licensed. Shows contact details, license number, and validity status.	Click Here
Insurance Policy Verification	Workers can check the validity of their SLBFE welfare and insurance coverage. Includes policy number, coverage period, and benefits.	Click Here
Complaint Submission System	Online form to report fraudulent job offers, agency misconduct, or mistreatment abroad. Can be submitted by workers or their family members.	Click Here
Overseas Worker Tracking	Family members can inquire about a registered worker’s status. Useful for welfare and emergency assistance.	Click Here
Agency License Renewal & Applications	Recruitment agencies can apply for or renew their SLBFE license online. Document submission and fee payments are supported.	Click Here
Online Training Scheduling	Book slots for pre-departure training programs. Includes schedules, venues, and training content.	Click Here
Document Verification & Status Tracking	Track the processing status of registration, insurance claims, or training.	Click Here

SLBFE Registered Recruitment Agencies

Every recruiting company forwarding Sri Lankans overseas has to be licenced by the SLBFE. These organisations have to keep openness and follow ethical recruitment policies.

When choosing a foreign job agency, always verify if they are SLBFE-registered.

Check the Latest SLBFE Registered Agency List

How to Register with SLBFE: Step-by-Step Guide

All individuals seeking employment abroad must register with the SLBFE. Here’s how:

Step-by-Step Registration Process

Visit a SLBFE office or service center near you.
Submit required documents (see list below).
Pay the registration fee depending on your employment category.
Attend mandatory pre-departure training (for domestic workers and selected categories).
Receive your registration card and a welfare insurance certificate.

Required Documents for Registration

National Identity Card (NIC)
Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
Employment Contract approved by the SLBFE
Visa/Work Permit
Medical report from a SLBFE-recognized hospital
Two passport-sized photographs
Proof of insurance payment
Training certificate (if applicable)

Online Services Provided by SLBFE

To make services more accessible, the SLBFE has introduced various online facilities:

Online registration for migrant workers
Verification of recruitment agencies
Complaint submission portal
Foreign job vacancies search tool
Insurance claim application forms

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1.Does one have to register with the SLBFE before travelling overseas?

Indeed, all Sri Lankans looking for work overseas should register to guarantee legal protection and welfare advantages.

2. How can I find out whether a hiring agency is SLBFE approved?

To confirm, visit the SLBFE agency list page or phone the hotline.

3. What benefits does SLBFE registration offer?

Registered workers get insurance, legal support, welfare assistance, and training before departure.

4. Can I register online?

Yes. The SLBFE offers online registration for certain categories of employment at https://www.slbfe.lk.

5. Is training compulsory for all workers?

Training is mandatory for selected categories, especially domestic workers.

Additional Tips for Migrant Workers

Always use a SLBFE-licensed recruitment agency.
Keep multiple copies of all documents and contracts.
Inform your family about your employer and location.
Attend SLBFE’s pre-departure training.
Register with the Sri Lankan Embassy in the country of employment.

Conclusion

Ensuring the safety and success of Sri Lankans employed abroad depends mostly on the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment. From registration and training to legal protection and welfare, the SLBFE is your reliable partner in overseas employment. For a safe and fulfilling migration, always keep informed, follow the legal process, and make use of authorized channels.

Downloadable Resources

Overseas Employment Guidebook – PDF

Jobs/CVs SMS Alerts