Mostafa Ghanizadeh, Morteza Diari | Islamic Parliament Research Center Of The Islamic Republic Of IRAN
Iran’s strategic location has made it a major destination for migrants, particularly from neighboring countries such as Afghanistan. The growing migrant population has highlighted gaps in policymaking, planning, and the assessment of opportunities and challenges. Drawing on the migration policies and experiences of developed and neighboring countries can help address Iran’s migration challenges.
An Assessment of Migration in Iran
Iran has experienced sustained migration, but the absence of a comprehensive and unified migration policy has created governance challenges across economic, social, and security domains.
Effective policymaking therefore requires a clear understanding of migrant-related issues, governance capacities, societal concerns, and the state’s approach to migration.
Migration Policies in Selected Countries
Countries adopt different migration policies based on their economic, demographic, and security needs.
Key models include planned immigration, selective admission, and strict border controls.
Canada: Planned Immigration
- Immigration supports population growth, economic development, and labor needs.
- Multi-year planning and points-based selection shape the system.
Australia: Points-Based, Strict Borders
- Skilled and family migration are combined with strict asylum and border policies.
- Recent reforms prioritize selective and controlled migration.
Germany: From “Guest Workers” to Immigration
- Germany increasingly relies on immigration to address labor shortages and demographic change.
- Skilled migration and citizenship pathways have been expanded.
Japan: Limited but Growing Immigration
- Aging and labor shortages have gradually increased demand for foreign workers.
- Migration remains selective and tightly controlled, particularly for refugees.
UAE: Residency Without Nation-Building
- Foreign labor and capital are central to the UAE economy.
- Long-term residency is available, but citizenship remains highly limited.
Turkey: Refuge, Regional Migration, and Investment
- Turkey combines refugee hosting with regional migration and investment-based residency.
- Recent policies have introduced tighter controls on registration and residency.
Migration Policymaking in Iran
Iran can draw on international experience, but its migration policy must be adapted to its specific demographic, geographic, and economic conditions.
Domestic data and research should guide this process.
Migrants vs. Asylum Seekers
- Distinguish between legal migrants, irregular migrants, and asylum seekers.
- Each category requires different legal and policy responses.
Security Challenges
Large-scale migration requires effective registration, monitoring, and border management.
Key concerns include trafficking, organized crime, social tensions, and demographic pressures.
Student Visas
- International students can contribute to economic growth, skilled labor, and cultural exchange.
- Easier study visas and part-time work opportunities could increase these benefits.
Public Awareness
Host communities need greater awareness of migration laws and social coexistence.
Public media and educational initiatives can help reduce tensions and misunderstandings.
Cross-Border Economic Linkages
- Strengthen complementary economic ties between Iran and Afghanistan.
- Productive trade networks can create mutual economic benefits and support voluntary return.
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