The Ministry of Economic Development has publicised a set of regulations for the accommodation of migrant labourers.

The ministry states that employers are mandated to follow the accommodation regulations when hiring new foreign labourers. The regulations come into effect six months from the date of publication, on 11th October 2020.

Action will be taken accordingly against employers who violate the new accommodation regulations, said the ministry.

Under the new regulations, the accommodation facilities need to be registered at the ministry. The accommodations must be registered on the 'xpat online system' prior to seeking employment approval for the new labourers.

If the accommodation belongs to the employer, registration will require a copy of the property registration and a document stating that the property will be used as labour quarters. If the accommodation is a rented property, registration requires a copy of the rent agreement and a copy of the floor plan. The number of rooms, beds and appliances must also be specified.

The regulations also details other standards required for the accommodations, including the level of lighting, ventilation and the ratio of space to person capacity in addition to standards for bathroom facilities, water supply, cooking spaces and building safety measures.