High risks

Policy changes and achieving some level of life and property security are risks facing overseas migrant workers. In the U.S. a new regulation from the IRS (Internal Revenue Service) came into force on January 1, 2014, requiring restaurants to pay tax on tips from big dining groups. According to Li, an employee in a restaurant: "Our earnings will be cut . But we have no choice in the matter."

In addition to policy changes, China's migrant workers abroad also need to be vigilant in taking care of their lives and property. Incidents over the course of the past year have resulted in harm to both overseas Chinese and overseas migrant workers.

Searching for opportunities

How should China's migrant workers abroad protect their rights and seek better opportunities?

The authorities remind us that China's migrant workers abroad should keep in touch with the Chinese Embassy and the relevant departments of overseas labor in the country where they work, and keep in regular contact with each other in case there is a problem. Meanwhile, workers themselves should improve their awareness of rights, and take action to prevent and minimize risks.

Lawyers working in related fields suggest Chinese migrant workers traveling abroad should also acquaint themselves with and try to understand the country's customs, laws and regulations. At the same time, they have to recognize cultural differences and integrate into local society, which is the only way that they can hope to improve their position.