Safety starts with reliable information. Before deciding to migrate, learn as much as possible about your destination country, employer, type of employment, living and working conditions, legal requirements and potential risks. Discuss your decision with your family and seek reliable information from the Migrant Resource Centre (MRC).

Migrate legally

Travel abroad only with the required documents and in accordance with the laws of your destination country. For employment, you may need an appropriate visa, work permit and other required documents.

Irregular migration increases the risk of exploitation, non-payment of wages, deportation and other violations of your rights.

If you are offered a job abroad — check the recruiter

Do not trust every job offer. Find out who is offering you the job and whether they are legally authorized to recruit workers for employment abroad.

Check information about the employer and private employment agency, as well as the working conditions and salary.

Be especially careful if you are asked to:

• provide false information or forged documents;
• travel on a tourist visa and work illegally;
• pay money without an official agreement or receipt;
• hand over your original passport or other personal documents.

Sign an employment contract before starting work

Do not start working without a clear employment contract. Carefully check the terms of your contract, including your position, salary, working hours, workplace, contract duration, accommodation and payment arrangements.

Make sure you understand the contract. Keep a copy for yourself and give another copy to a trusted family member.

Protect your documents

Keep your passport, visa, employment contract and other important documents in a safe place. Make paper or electronic copies and leave them with someone you trust.

Do not hand over your original passport to an employer or recruiter unless there is a lawful reason to do so.

In emergencies

Before travelling, save important telephone numbers in your destination country, including emergency services, police, ambulance, your employer, family and friends, and the diplomatic representation of the Republic of Tajikistan.

Let your family know where you live and work. In an emergency, do not face the problem alone — seek assistance.

Stay in contact with your family

Keep regular contact with your family and let them know where you are, how you are doing and what your working conditions are.

Stay connected with other Tajik citizens and people you trust.

If you’re working or living conditions are different from what you were promised, inform your family and seek advice as soon as possible.

Protect your rights

If you experience fraud, non-payment of wages, exploitation, threats or other problems, contact the relevant authorities in your destination country, the diplomatic representation of the Republic of Tajikistan or the MRC.

Use only official and trusted services to send money. Plan your expenses and save part of your income.

Important

All MRC counselling services are free of charge. Personal data and information shared during counselling are handled in accordance with applicable confidentiality and data protection principles.

Before making a migration decision — get reliable information, check your documents and protect your rights.