Malé City Council announced on Tuesday that local market vendors must register their businesses with the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade before receiving permits to employ expatriates. This new regulation is part of a broader crackdown on illegal expatriates and foreign-run businesses operating unlawfully in the Maldives.
Nationwide Crackdown on Illegal Expatriates
The Maldives has recently launched a multi-agency initiative to track and manage illegal expatriates and businesses. Spearheaded by the Ministry of Homeland Security and Technology and led by Maldives Immigration, this effort has resulted in successful raids, the detention of numerous illegal expatriates, and the deportation of the majority.
Council’s New Regulations
Malé City Council’s latest announcement aligns with the central government’s efforts to control the illegal expatriate population. In a circular, the council stated that any business involving expatriates must first be registered with the Economic Ministry.
Implementation Timeline
Starting August 2024, vendors will only receive permits to employ foreign workers after registering their businesses. Additionally, foreign workers will be restricted to operating exclusively at the stall or vendor under which they are registered. Local businesses with existing permits to employ foreigners must also comply and register before August 31, 2024.
Conclusion
This initiative by Male’ City Council underscores the Maldives’ commitment to regulating expatriate employment and ensuring that businesses operate within the legal framework. The new registration requirements aim to enhance control over the employment of foreign workers and support the broader crackdown on illegal expatriates in the country.
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