Do You Want to Go Abroad?

Are you planning to leave Tajikistan? Perhaps for work, education, or to join your family abroad? If so, please follow the advice below to stay safe and prevent others from taking advantage of your vulnerable situation.

Be Aware and Informed

Before making a decision to migrate, learn as much as possible about the place where you will stay, the work you will do, and the people who will travel with you. Review the materials of the Migrant Resource Centre. Talk to your friends and family, local authorities, and NGOs.

Migrate Legally

Migrate only if you have all the necessary documents, including a visa and work permit. Irregular migration exposes you to many risks, including labour exploitation without payment.

Know the Recruiter — Employment Agency / Employer

Do not trust everyone. Find out as much information as possible about the employment agency that is helping you find a job abroad. What is their reputation? Are they licensed to operate? Do they ask you to provide false information about yourself or to work without a contract?

Sign a Contract

Contracts are important! Ask the employment agency to sign a contract with you. When you find a job, ask your employer to sign an employment contract with you. Without a contract, your work is illegal.

Protect Your Documents

Keep your personal documents safe. Make photocopies of your passport, visa, employment contract, and other important documents. Keep the originals of your documents in a secure place and carry copies with you. Do not give your documents to other people and do not allow anyone to keep or hold them for you.

In Case of Emergency

Be prepared. Always carry a list of important phone numbers with you, including the numbers of the local police, ambulance, fire department, your friends and family, your embassy or consular office, NGOs, trade unions, and migrant associations.

Stay in Contact with Other People

Do not stay alone in another country! Maintain regular contact with your friends and family in your home country. Let them know whether you are safe and doing well. Make friends and communicate with other migrants. This way, you can help and support one another.

Protect Yourself

If you face problems, first speak with your supervisor at work. If this does not help, contact trade unions and NGOs for advice and protection. Finally, you can always report the problem to the authorities, for example, by contacting the Embassy of Tajikistan and asking for their protection.