The year 2024 has marked a historic milestone for Sri Lanka, with 312,836 individuals migrating for overseas employment—the highest annual figure ever recorded. This surpasses the previous peak set in 2022, reflecting a significant trend in labor migration in recent years.
Migration Statistics:
- Total Migrants (2019–2024): 1.3 million Sri Lankans pursued employment abroad during this period.
- 2024 Breakdown:
- Male Workers: 185,162
- Female Workers: 127,674
Top Destinations in 2024:
- Kuwait: 77,546 workers
- United Arab Emirates: 51,550 workers
- South Korea: 7,098 workers
- Israel: 9,665 workers
- Japan: 8,665 workers
The growing preference for employment in countries like South Korea, Israel, and Japan demonstrates a shift in destination trends, as highlighted by the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment.
Economic Impact:
By November 2024, remittances from Sri Lankan expatriates reached USD 6,462 million, showcasing the vital contribution of migrant workers to the national economy.
Comparison with 2023:
In 2023, 297,584 Sri Lankans sought overseas employment:
- Male Workers: 164,680
- Female Workers: 132,904
The continued rise in labor migration underscores its growing importance to Sri Lanka’s economic resilience and foreign exchange earnings.
