The number of migrant workers operating with valid work permits in the Maldives has reached 208,937, according to recent data released by the Ministry of Homeland Security, Labour and Technology, as the government accelerates regulatory efforts to address undocumented labour.
Details of the state’s enforcement strategy under ‘Operation Kurangi’, an initiative launched to resolve the persistent issue of undocumented migrant labour, were outlined by Ali Ihusaan, the homeland security minister, during the ‘Addu Business Dialogue’ held in Addu City.
Official figures provided by Minister Ihusaan indicate that between 12 November 2023 and 1 May of this year, total submitted work permits declined from 295,678 to 232,884. Concurrently, a pre-2012 backlog of unverified permits fell from 86,741 to 19,904, while active permits rose from 208,937 to 212,980. Reflecting improved legal compliance, permits with valid visas and paid fees surged from 20 per cent to 66 per cent, while non-compliant permits dropped from 80 per cent to 34 per cent.
In biometric registration, individuals submitting full ten-fingerprint records and photographs rose from 27,200 to 202,224, reducing the population lacking biometric documentation from 181,737 to 10,756. Though 6,716 additional individuals received entry authorisation, officials identified 4,040 who have yet to complete initial fingerprint registration.
Enforcement operations targeting unauthorised businesses and repatriation revealed that migrant workers with unexpired visas frequently work at unauthorised locations or outside their approved designations, immigration authorities stated. The population operating illegally under an "open visa" to run private enterprises or secure alternative employment away from designated employers is steadily increasing, officials emphasised, advising the public, employers, and expatriates to adhere to the law.