The free movement of skilled labor under the ASEAN Economic Community framework consists of two types – trade and services under the ASEAN Framework Agreement on Services including the natural flow of commerce and investment, and the movement of professional-level labor in accordance with the Mutual Recognition Arrangements (MRAs).
Under MRAs, ASEAN members have agreed on the free flow of professional-level labor in seven fields, namely engineering, architectural, surveying, nursing, medical, dental, and accounting services. For the tourism industry, skilled workers must register their profession, or obtain job certification, or pass specific job tests of the host nation. They must also obtain a work permit from the host country and comply with related rules and regulations.