Immigration warns of deportation of foreigners working outside Visa permits

Maldives Immigration has issued a warning, stating that any foreigner found earning income outside the scope of their visa permit will be deported. Legal action will also be taken against those who employ such individuals illegally.

According to the authority, foreigners in the Maldives on an “open visa” who engage in unauthorized income-generating activities will be deported. Furthermore, employers who utilize their services outside the visa's permitted scope will also face legal consequences.

Immigration regulations clearly state that foreign nationals are only permitted to work in the specific locations and roles for which their visas have been issued.

Despite this, a growing number of immigrants are reportedly earning substantial income by taking on odd jobs or conducting business activities outside the terms of their visa. Immigration emphasized that such actions are a violation of Maldivian law.

Last week, a major operation was launched to combat the rise of illegal foreign-run businesses in the country. Authorities confirmed that any such businesses will be shut down immediately, and the individuals involved will be deported.

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, speaking last week, highlighted that the government is actively working to document foreigners working in the Maldives through the "Kurangi Operation," which collects biometric data of foreign workers. According to the program, a total of 178,982 foreigners have resided in the Maldives over the past two years.

The President also pointed out that, in the past, deportations were largely symbolic. However, under his administration, 8,609 undocumented immigrants have been deported so far.