Concerns over government decision to increase medical test fees for foreign employment

Kathmandu, Nov 28: The Nepal Forum of Democratic Foreign Employment Entrepreneurs has raised concerns over the government’s recent decision to increase medical test fees for aspiring migrant workers.

In a statement issued today, the Federation said the decision that has been implemented since November 26 adds an unnecessary financial burden on individuals seeking foreign employment.

The medical examination fee for workers traveling to the UAE has been increased by more than double, rising from Rs 4,500 to Rs 9,500, while fees for other destinations have increased from Rs 6,500 to Rs 9,500. According to the Forum, this hike disproportionately impacts people from poor and marginalized communities.

Forum President Deepak Thapa said that when the service fee for workers heading to Gulf countries and Malaysia is capped at Rs 10,000, charging Rs 9,500 solely for medical tests is extremely worrying. Stressing that most workers going to these countries come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, he urged the government to immediately revoke the decision. (RSS)