MVR 1.6 billion recovered in unpaid expatriate fees

The government has recovered MVR 1.6 billion in unpaid expatriate fees, according to Homeland Ministry State Minister Abdul Majeed Ibrahim.

Speaking during a programme on state media PSM, Majeed explained that the government has made significant strides in addressing the issue of unpaid fees related to expatriates.

When the current administration took office, the state was owed MVR 1.7 billion for various expatriate-related fees, with only 22.7 percent of fees being paid regularly.

Since October of last year, the government has implemented various measures to address the issue. Majeed said that individuals with significant outstanding amounts were granted a one-year grace period, allowing them to arrange repayment plans.

This approach has led to an increase in the number of people paying their fees regularly.

“Compared to previous years, 55 percent of people have paid their fees to date,” he said.

While MVR 1.6 billion isi recovered so far, Majeed noted that MVR 900 million is still outstanding. The deadline for full payment is set for October this year. After this period, accounts that remain unpaid will be suspended, he added.

"Over the past year, we have implemented several measures, including suspending services for those who owe money to the state," Majeed said.

The government has also committed to regulating illegal immigrants within three years. Over the past year, 38,000 people have been legalized, but a significant number of individuals still remain undocumented.

Majeed said that the government’s portal indicates that 11,000 people are currently fleeing from their employers. However, he emphasized the government’s commitment to regulating these individuals within the next year.

“The goal is not to deport many people,” he said.

“Instead, we want to provide an opportunity for them to live according to the rules.”