The government has set a goal to address the issue of illegal immigrants in the Maldives within the next three years, according to Mohamed Shamaan Waheed, the Controller General of Immigration. Speaking in an interview with PSM News following a major immigration inspection in Hulhumalé, Shamaan expressed optimism about the progress being made in regulating foreign workers in the country.
Shamaan highlighted that the recent operations by the Immigration Department are showing promising results, with 95% of those issued notices for non-compliance responding to authorities. “Those who have requested to correct their documentation and visas have had their issues resolved by Immigration,” he said, noting that both foreign employers and workers are demonstrating increased compliance with local regulations.
Expanding on the ongoing efforts, the Controller General outlined plans to extend these operations beyond the capital to other islands across the country. “Our primary goal is to solve the problem of illegal immigrants within the next three years. We are actively working on this, and many have been given the opportunity to regularize their status,” Shamaan added.
He also emphasized the responsibility of businesses, urging them not to cooperate with or employ illegal immigrants. “Companies must ensure that their workforce is fully compliant with immigration laws,” he stressed.
The recent large-scale inspection in Hulhumalé saw participation from over 200 Immigration officers, including Shamaan and Deputy Controller of Immigration Ahmed Ashfan. The operation involved several government agencies, such as the Maldives Police Service, the Health Protection Agency (HPA), the Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA), and the Ministry of Economic Development. Together, the teams covered 27 zones in Hulhumalé, inspecting businesses such as shops, salons, and garages where foreign workers are employed.
Those found in violation of immigration laws have been provided an opportunity to enter the legal framework, Shamaan said, underscoring the government’s aim to bring illegal workers into compliance rather than imposing punitive measures.
The campaign is part of a larger government initiative to identify foreigners living and working in the Maldives without proper permits. Despite previous efforts by various governments, the issue of illegal immigration has persisted. However, the current administration’s more stringent approach has drawn public support, with many praising the Immigration Department’s increased vigilance and proactive measures.
As the government ramps up its efforts, the public remains hopeful that the long-standing issue of illegal immigration will finally be resolved within the set timeframe.
