Expats subject to MVR 100k fine is troubling, MDP raises concern

The Maldivian Democratic Party's (MDP) parliamentary group raised concerns on Wednesday about the new Employment Act amendment bill.

The main opposition claims the new bill enhances levying a fine of up to MVR 100,000 from expatriates.

During the press conference the party's parliamentary group held, Kendhoo MP Mauroof Zakir said the new government has ignored the previous statutes, which cap the maximum number of foreigners allowed entry to the Maldives at 100,000.

He said the current administration has decided to forego this and allow entry of expatriates beyond this limitation.

Mauroof also said that this decision was previously halted after the MDP parliamentary group raised concerns about it.

The MP further claimed the amendment to fine expatriates employed or working illegally by MVR 50,000 had ambiguity with regards to which ministry held discretion to enforce the said statute.

Mauroof said the primary concern is granting the relevant ministry authority to bring expatriates without any limits.

He also said the amendment to grant the minister discretionary power to revise quota and work permit fees indicated the state's intention was to generate income out of the practice instead of regulating foreign workers.

"The law is being revised to ensure the minister has the authority to change quota fee to more than MVR 2,000 or less. Besides this, the minister will have the authority to revise the current work permit fee of MVR 350." Mauroof added.

Mauroof added that removing the limitations could also obstruct the prospects of Maldivians finding work in the tourism and fisheries sectors, since employers could be looking to hire expat workers for cheaper wages.

The opposition party however, do not object to fine employers who neglect expat workers but added such a mechanism must be handled responsibly.

"But the amendment to fine an employee is concerning. Moreover, the amendment's intention is to enhance the ministry or the minister to abuse their authority."

The amendment seeking to fine Maldivian employers who neglect their foreign workers by MVR 50,000 was submitted last Thursday.

According to the amendment, if the employer or employee breaches any of the provisions stipulated in the amendment, or in exceptional circumstances, they can be fined with no more than MVR 100,000.