New Policy Requires Island-Specific Permits for Foreign Workers

Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusaan has announced a new regulation requiring foreign labourers in the Maldives to obtain an additional permit for each island they work on.

In an exclusive interview with PSM News, Minister Ihusaan shared the policy details, emphasizing its importance in addressing the issue of illegal migrants. The government has outlined a three-year timeline to tackle this problem, with Operation Kurangi playing a key role in this strategy. Launched in May, the operation aims to collect information on all foreign workers residing in the Maldives.

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During the pilot phase of Operation Kurangi in Himmafushi, Kaafu Atoll, over 800 migrant workers lived on the island, exceeding the expected amounts by over 100. According to the government, the operation aims to identify undocumented foreigners and maintain accurate records.

Minister Ihusaan highlighted that local councils are responsible for tracking foreigners on their respective islands but currently lack the necessary systems.

To address this issue, the government is collecting biometric data from foreigners and providing councils with access to a comprehensive record-keeping system. Additionally, foreign workers with permits to work in the Maldives will now need separate permits for each island where they are employed.

The government is also focusing on making the deportation process for illegal immigrants more efficient. The maximum deportation cost is USD 519, and proper documentation allows for deportation within 48 hours of arrest. However, deporting undocumented individuals remains a challenge, and Minister Ihusaan noted that the government is collaborating with embassies to resolve these issues.

Under Operation Kurangi, the biometric data of 805 expatriates in Maafushi and 705 in Himmafushi has been collected so far. The first phase of the operation aims to gather biometric data from all migrant workers in the Maldives within a year, after which the government will work on regularizing undocumented migrants.

Minister Ihusaan emphasized that the objective is not to arrest and deport migrants but to offer them a chance to legalize their status.