The cost of labour migration in Nepal: Evidence from the 2023 recruitment cost survey of migrant workers

This report, "The cost of labour migration in Nepal: Evidence from the 2023 recruitment cost survey of migrant workers," provides nationally representative evidence on the recruitment fees and related costs incurred by Nepali migrant workers.

The National Statistics Office (NSO) of Nepal, with technical support from the International Labour Organization (ILO), conducted this survey to profile international migrants and Nepali migrant workers, and to collect comprehensive data on the recruitment fees and related costs they incur, as well as their monthly earnings. International labour migration is a key driver of Nepal's economy, but high recruitment fees and related costs can place a significant financial burden on migrant workers. The survey provides nationally representative estimates of these costs and their proportion relative to workers' monthly earnings in destination countries, in line with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Indicator 10.7.1, which measures recruitment costs borne by employees as a proportion of their monthly income earned in the country of destination.

Labour migration is a vital source of income and opportunity for many Nepali households, but high recruitment fees and related costs can leave migrant workers in debt and increase their vulnerability to exploitation. International labour standards and the Sustainable Development Goals call for fair recruitment practices where workers do not bear recruitment costs. This report provides nationally representative evidence on the recruitment costs faced by Nepali migrant workers, offering valuable insights to inform policies, monitor progress, and strengthen efforts to promote fair, transparent, and rights-based labour migration.