Maldives Mandates Direct Bank Deposits for All Expatriate Worker Salaries
- The Maldives now requires all expatriate worker salaries to be paid directly into personal bank accounts through MMA-licensed institutions.
- Electronic payment records will be the sole valid evidence of wage payment in disputes or investigations.
- Employers must swiftly open bank accounts for foreign staff to comply ahead of upcoming audits.
The Ministry of Homeland Security, Labour and Technology has instructed all business owners operating within the Maldives to transfer foreign employees’ salaries and allowances directly into personal bank accounts established in their names.
According to statutory updates to the Employment of Expatriates framework, companies must conduct all payroll transfers exclusively through financial institutions licensed by or registered with the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA). The government introduced the directive to secure verifiable financial records and stamp out off-the-books transactions across the migrant labour force.
The Ministry has called on businesses to expedite opening bank accounts for their foreign staff. Regulatory bodies noted that employers must act swiftly during this transition phase to bring their payroll practices into full compliance ahead of upcoming audits.
The Labour Relations Authority confirmed that electronic payment records will serve as the sole evidence of wage distribution. In cases involving formal salary disputes or workplace investigations, regulatory authorities will only recognise wage payments as valid if an employer has remitted the funds directly into the employee’s personal MMA-approved account.
The mandate reflects broader state efforts to elevate labour standards, safeguard foreign workers’ rights, and modernise economic tracking across the nation.
Those seeking clarification are requested to contact the Ministry of Homeland Security, Labour and Technology via their helpline on 1485, or via email at xpat@home.gov.mv and info@home.gov.mv. Operational enquiries may also be directed to phone lines 3031515 or 3031501.
