Last year, remittance inflows to Tajikistan amounted to US$5.8 billion, which is a 27% increase compared to 2023, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) reported, citing World Bank data.
It is noted that last year, remittances accounted for 45% of Tajikistan's GDP, which is 6.0 percent higher than the year before.
The report highlights that in 2023, the volume of remittances to the country was US$4.6 billion, equaling 39% of the GDP.
Russia remains the primary destination country for Tajik migrants. Citing data from the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs, the report notes that as of August 2024, more than 1.2 million Tajik migrants were living in Russia, making them the second-largest migrant group in the country after Uzbek migrants (about 1.7 million people).
“In 2024, employment restrictions affecting labor migrants continued to expand across the Russian Federation. By the end of the year, 49 out of 89 regions had introduced sector-specific bans prohibiting migrants from working in areas such as healthcare, education, social services, trade, and pharmaceutical production,” the report states.
It also notes that a new decree by the President of Russia, dated December 30, 2024, introduced additional requirements for migrants, foreign nationals, and stateless persons listed in the national registry of controlled individuals.
“Starting January 1, 2025, the new regulation requires migrants and stateless individuals to provide biometric data, undergo medical examinations, demonstrate knowledge of the Russian language and understanding of local laws, as well as confirm the absence of unpaid debts or entry bans.
Exceptions will be made for those signing contracts for military service. While this provision offers a path to legal residency, it may raise concerns among migrant communities, including Tajik citizens, as some individuals may feel pressured to enlist in the army to avoid deportation or legal uncertainty,” the report adds.
According to the report, Kazakhstan is the second most important destination for Tajik labor migrants. Data from Kazakhstan’s National Security Committee’s Border Guard Service shows that approximately 970,000 Tajik citizens entered Kazakhstan in 2024.
The authors also highlight employment of Tajik citizens in Uzbekistan and South Korea during 2024.
