The Ministry of Homeland Security and Technology has announced that employers in the Maldives currently owe the state MVR 1.76 billion in unpaid fees for various permits issued to expatriate workers.
In an official gazette announcement yesterday, the ministry disclosed that 102,807 expatriates registered with 10,619 employers have outstanding fees. These employers have been given until 18 June to settle all outstanding fees and fines. Failing to do so by the deadline will result in public naming and suspension via the Xpat system, the ministry warns.
Employers seeking further information on this matter have been encouraged to reach out to the ministry at 1500 or via email at xpat@1500help.mv.
The ministry has also alerted employers about potential delays in the issuance of work permits as it undergoes a review of regulations governing the recruitment of expatriates. This comprehensive review aims to address existing system issues and pave the way for a more streamlined and convenient service.
Furthermore, the ministry has taken decisive action in the fight against illegal migration by establishing a national task force. Known as the ‘National Task Force on Combating Illegal Expatriate Operations’, the task force has already conducted 33 operations, leading to the identification and repatriation of over 1,700 undocumented expatriates.
In a gazetted announcement yesterday, the ministry revealed these outstanding fees involve 102,807 expatriates registered with 10,619 employers.
These employers have been instructed to settle all outstanding fees and fines by 18 June, the ministry said. Those who fail to comply by the deadline will be publicly named and suspended via the Xpat system, which will halt the issuance of new permits.
Employers seeking further information can contact the ministry at 1500 or via email at xpat@1500help.mv.
In addition, the Home Ministry has alerted employers to potential delays in issuing work permits as it revises regulations governing the recruitment of expatriates. This review aims to address current system issues and develop a more efficient and convenient service.
The ministry has also formed a national task force to combat illegal migration. The ‘National Task Force on Combating Illegal Expatriate Operations’ has already conducted 33 operations, identifying and repatriating over 1,700 undocumented expatriates.
