May 20, Colombo (LNW): More than 100,000 Sri Lankans have officially departed for overseas employment during the first five months of 2025, according to the latest figures released by the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE).
The surge in outbound labour migration highlights both the continued demand for Sri Lankan workers abroad and the ongoing domestic push for foreign remittances.
As of mid-May, 100,413 individuals registered with the SLBFE have taken up employment opportunities overseas. Of these, 64,150 workers secured their placements through self-registration processes, whilst 36,263 departed via recognised foreign employment agencies.
The group comprises 39,496 women and 60,917 men, reflecting a relatively broad gender representation in overseas job markets.
Kuwait emerged as the top destination, with 25,672 registered workers having travelled there since January. The United Arab Emirates followed with 18,474 placements, whilst Qatar and Saudi Arabia attracted 14,162 and 12,625 workers respectively.
These Gulf countries continue to serve as the principal employment hubs for Sri Lankan migrants, offering roles in sectors such as domestic work, construction, logistics, and hospitality.
The SLBFE further reported that registered workers have also left for a variety of other countries. The bureau reiterated its target of facilitating employment opportunities for a total of 340,000 Sri Lankans abroad by the end of the year.
