License Rules: Recruitment Agent (RA) License & Compliance Guide
- Ms. Jasmine
- Apr 25
- 2 min read
(For Registered Overseas Recruitment Agents in India)
To operate legally as a Recruiting Agent (RA) under the Emigration Act, 1983, it is essential to follow the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) regulations. Below is a concise guide to help you understand your Overseas Recruitment Agent License obligations and ensure full compliance.
1. License Validity & Ownership
The RA License is valid for 5 years.
It is non-transferable and strictly for the original applicant—either an individual or a registered entity.
All operations must be under the registered name, and a visible copy of the license must be displayed at the office.
2. Registered Office Requirement
RAs must operate only from the approved address listed in the license.
Opening additional centers or trade testing venues requires prior approval through the e-Migrate portal.
3. Mandatory Documentation
To maintain transparency, every RA must keep proper records, including:
Receipts of payments from emigrants.
Pre-paid Ticket Advices (PTAs) and recruitment cost breakdowns.
Copies of employment contracts, biodata, and original demand letters.
Registers for visas, compensation claims, and advertisements.
Interview logs and related documentation.
4. Strict Prohibitions
Sub-agents are not allowed under the Overseas Recruitment Agent License framework.
No emigrant can be charged for repatriation or unjustified expenses.
False job offers or misleading ads are strictly prohibited.
5. Emigrant Welfare Obligations
RAs must:
Provide full disclosure of job terms before departure.
Ensure employers honor contract conditions post-deployment.
Support emigrants upon arrival and ensure timely renewal of legal documents.
Assist in dispute resolution between workers and employers.
6. Office Infrastructure Requirements
To qualify as a legitimate RA, your premises must meet the following criteria:
Minimum of 50 sq. meters/ 538 Sq ft built-up area.
Waiting hall (for at least 30 people), interview room, basic office setup.
Internet, email, telephone.
A web portal detailing job listings, recruitment procedures, fees, and grievance support.
7. Monthly Compliance Reporting
RAs must file Form IV to the Protector General of Emigrants (PGE) or concerned PoE by the 10th of every month.
8. Employer Compliance Responsibility
RAs must ensure employers provide proper working conditions and legal benefits.
In case of migrant death or injury, RAs must notify Indian Missions and families within 48 hours and coordinate compensation.
9. Penalties for Non-Compliance
Violations may result in:
Suspension or cancellation of the RA License.
Legal penalties under Sections 24 & 25 of the Emigration Act, 1983.
Financial penalties and blacklisting from recruitment activities.
Common Issues in Overseas Recruitment:
Contract Breach: Salary cuts, altered roles, or unauthorized shifts in job terms.
Passport Confiscation: Illegal retention by employers.
Salary Delays or Non-Payment.
Exit Visa Denials: Blocking workers from returning home.
Compensation Disputes: Injury or death cases with no follow-through from employers.
Advertisement Guidelines for Registered RAs:
To ensure ethical recruitment:
Conduct interviews only at MEA-approved offices.
Notify PoE of all advertisements via e-Migrate within 3 days of publication.
Ads must be clear, include license details, job roles, employer details, and only promote fee payments via traceable methods (no cash).
Non-compliance may lead to penalties or license suspension.
FAQs
Can an RA open more offices?
Yes, with prior approval via the e-Migrate portal.
What is the minimum space needed for an RA office? Main office: 538 sq. ft.
Branch office: Minimum 300 sq. ft.
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