Growing demand for foreign workers
Ukrainian businesses have started to actively recruit labor migrants from Asia to address workforce shortages. According to HRD-club co-founder Dmytro Degtyar, most foreign workers are employed as:
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handymen,
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logistics specialists,
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drivers,
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welders.
The majority of migrants arriving in Ukraine come from India and Bangladesh.
Not a mass phenomenon, but a trend
Degtyar emphasized that the influx of Asian workers is not yet massive, but the trend is visible:
“We are expecting this flow. It will not be massive, but it is already happening,” he noted.
This development reflects both the demographic challenges Ukraine faces due to war and emigration, and the growing interest of foreign workers in filling gaps in industries where local labor is scarce.
Challenges with registration
Despite demand, Ukrainian companies face bureaucratic barriers in employing foreigners. The expert noted that:
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the registration process for foreign workers is long and complex,
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on average, the procedure takes about six months,
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delays often discourage both businesses and potential employees.
Broader migration context
Degtyar also added that, even after Ukraine opens its borders wider for labor migration, not all foreigners will be willing to move due to security concerns and economic risks.
At the same time, Ukrainian refugees abroad continue to decide on permanent settlement in other countries, with certain destinations proving more attractive than others.
