President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, in his first Republic Day address, stated that if a permanent solution is not found for illegal expatriates, the issue could escalate into a threat to national independence. Over the past two years, the Government has prioritised resolving this longstanding challenge, adopting a coordinated and systematic approach to regularisation, documentation, and enforcement.

A central component of the Administration’s strategy is Operation Kurangi, launched on 2 May 2025 as a nationwide initiative to document expatriates across the Maldives. When President Dr Muizzu assumed office, the Government did not possess updated or accurate data on the foreign population, with no unified system to identify individuals, their employment status, or residential locations.

Progress since the launch of Operation Kurangi has been significant. As of 14 November 2025, biometric information, including ten fingerprints and other personal details, has been collected from 191,723 expatriates. The data also captures employment and residential information that had previously not been systematically maintained, enabling law enforcement and regulatory agencies to strengthen oversight and decision-making.

In parallel with documentation efforts, authorities have intensified action against undocumented workers and individuals involved in unlawful activities. Over the past two years, 9,021 foreigners have been deported. This represents a marked contrast to the preceding five-year period, during which 2,165 individuals were deported. Deportations under President Dr Muizzu’s Administration stand 143 per cent higher, demonstrating a more assertive and sustained enforcement framework.

Marking two years in office, the Administration continues to frame expatriate regularisation as essential for safeguarding sovereignty, strengthening national security, and ensuring an orderly and lawful labour environment across the Maldives.