New System Launched to Protect Foreign Workers Affected by Wage Delays
The Ministry of Justice has announced that starting November 6, 2025, a new program will be implemented to exempt foreign workers affected by wage delays from reporting requirements. This initiative aims to ensure that foreign workers who have experienced wage theft or unfair treatment can seek legal recourse without the fear of exposing their undocumented status.
Under the current Immigration Control Act, governmental officials are mandated to report any knowledge of a foreign national’s illegal residency status to immigration authorities while performing their duties. As a result, many foreign workers have hesitated to report issues like wage theft or workplace injuries due to the fear of deportation, creating a significant barrier to seeking help.
With this amendment, moving forward, labor inspectors will not be required to notify authorities about the illegal residency status of foreign workers who have suffered from wage delays.
Expanded Protection Beyond Existing Exemptions
Previously, the exemption from reporting was limited to certain groups, such as students in kindergarten and primary or secondary schools, patients in public health institutions, children in welfare facilities, minors seeking help from counseling centers, as well as victims of crime and human rights violations.
However, with the recent rule change, “foreign workers affected by wage delays” have now been included in the expanded list of those receiving protection. This adjustment significantly broadens the scope of survivors eligible for support.
Now, even if foreign workers find themselves unlawfully residing in the country, they will have a legal avenue to seek remedies for unfair working conditions or unpaid wages. This step is in line with the human rights standards set by the International Labour Organization (ILO) and furthers the protection of foreign workers’ rights within the labor market.
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