Brunei · Government & Safety

Department of Labour

Name: Department of Labour
Brand: Department of Labour

Up to date as of October 22, 2026

Brunei's Department of Labour issues the foreign worker licence (LPA) that employers need before hiring a foreigner, and handles labour complaints.

What it helps with

Working legally in BruneiThrough the employer.
A dispute with an employerLabour complaint.
Changing jobsNew licence needed.

About Department of Labour:

An employer first advertises the job on JobCentre Brunei, gets a clearance letter, and then applies to the Department of Labour for a Lesen Pekerja Asing with a security deposit; the licence is usually issued in about two weeks. The worker then has a medical check and receives an employment pass from Immigration, valid for two years and renewable, together with a green IC.

Key Features:

Foreign worker licence: LPA for employers.
Employment rules: Wages and working hours.
Complaints: Disputes with employers.
Short-term passes: SAWP for under a year.

How to Get Started:

Ask your employer to apply for the LPA before you travel.
Do not start work on a tourist or business visa.
Complete the medical check after arrival.
Collect your employment pass and green IC from Immigration.

Before you use it

Sign-up: The employer, not the worker, applies for the foreign worker licence and pays the deposit.
Limits: A business visitor visa does not allow any paid work.

English available

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Department of Labour work with a foreign bank card in Brunei?: Not reliably — a foreign card may be declined. Check the notice above, or plan to use a local payment method.
Is Department of Labour available in English?: Yes, Department of Labour has an English-language interface.
Do I need a local phone number to use Department of Labour?: No, an international phone number generally works for Department of Labour.
Do I need local ID or residency for Department of Labour?: No, Department of Labour doesn't require local ID or residency for visitors.
Where can I use Department of Labour?: Web
How much does Department of Labour cost?: Licence fees and deposits paid by the employer