Immigration launches operation against undocumented expats in Addu
As part of broader enforcement efforts, the government has completed the registration of 150,000 migrant workers in the Maldives.
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The Maldives Immigration Department has launched a large-scale operation in Addu City targeting undocumented foreign workers, marking the most extensive enforcement activity by the agency this year.
The operation is being carried out in response to the high concentration of foreign nationals residing and working in Addu.
A total of 35 immigration officers are involved in the task force, with participation from Immigration Controller Ahmed Faseeh and Deputy Controller Ahmed Ashfan. Officers from the Maldives Police Service and Addu City Council members are also assisting in the operation.
According to Immigration, the aim is to address the issue of undocumented foreign workers in a timely manner. Under the operation, individuals found working without valid permits in Addu will be transferred to the detention centre in Malé. Notices will also be issued to Maldivian employers found to be hiring such workers.
The operation will be expanded to other regions of the country. Immigration stated that it is in the process of identifying foreign nationals engaged in employment or business activities without proper authorisation, including those operating small and medium enterprises in violation of permit conditions. Legal action will be taken against those found in breach of the Immigration Act.
As part of broader enforcement efforts, the government has completed the registration of 150,000 migrant workers in the Maldives, including collecting photographs for facial recognition. This database is intended to support more effective monitoring and regulation of the foreign workforce in the country.
