Large enterprises with foreign investment in Ukraine have begun importing workers from Bangladesh, Pakistan, and other countries due to a severe labor shortage.

MP: Due to labor shortages, Ukraine is bringing in migrant workers from Asia

Related:

Kyiv Independent: War-hit Ukrainian employers expand recruitment in South Asia

Private Sector Push

Businesses and some politicians have begun to push for changes in immigration policy. The parliament registered a draft law in July 2024, making it easier for employers to hire non-Ukrainians through a single work and residence permit. It would also allow foreign university students up to nine months to find a job or start a business.

Despite widespread support from businesses, the law hasn’t been put up for a vote. The legislation “lacks clarity and is deficient in numerous legislative gaps,” the Ukrainian NGO Labor Initiatives said, adding that it’s unclear if the law’s conditions would still apply after Kyiv lifts martial law.