The Maldives government has set a deadline of April 20 for employers to update the biometric data of expatriate workers, warning that failure to comply will result in deportation. The directive, issued by the Ministry of Homeland Security, is part of ongoing efforts to document and regulate the country’s large migrant workforce.
Employers in urban areas, including Malé, Hulhumalé, Vilimalé, K. Thilafushi, and K. Gulhifalhu, are required to complete the process by March 15, while those employing workers in resorts, safaris, and designated industrial and agricultural islands must ensure compliance by the final deadline in April. The process will be facilitated through the Joint Operations Center at NCIT or the nearest local council office where the employee is based.
This initiative falls under ‘Operation Kurangi’, a government programme launched on May 2, 2024, aimed at collecting biometric data, including photographs and fingerprints, to address the growing issue of undocumented foreign workers. Since its launch, biometric data of over 25,000 expatriates has been collected.
The 2024 census indicates that there are 132,371 expatriates residing in the Maldives, with a significant percentage being undocumented. ‘Operation Kurangi’ is structured into three phases: first, identifying the nationality, location, and employment status of foreign workers; second, registering undocumented workers, collecting biometric data, and issuing photo IDs; and third, coordinating with embassies to verify identities and deport those whose information is not found in government records.
Employers are expected to coordinate with local councils and the Homeland Security Ministry to ensure compliance within the given timeframe. For further information, the ministry can be contacted at 7690228 or via email at operation.kurangi@mohst.gov.mv.
