Maldives Immigration has issued a reminder that all foreign nationals residing in the country must strictly adhere to the conditions and purpose of their permits, noting that any breach constitutes an offence under the Immigration Act.

The advisory comes following a series of recent arrests involving foreign nationals found engaging in unlawful commercial activities.

In a statement shared on social media, Maldives Immigration underscored that expatriates are required to remain in the Maldives only under the terms of the permits granted to them. It further warned that permits will be cancelled for any individual found violating Maldivian laws or regulations.

Immigration officials, together with other relevant authorities, are intensifying efforts to address the issue of illegal migrants. Common violations include working on expired visas, operating outside the permitted sector, and undertaking unauthorised employment.

The agency also raised concerns about the misuse of so-called “open visas,” noting that some foreign nationals have been using these permits to earn significant income through unapproved work, self-employment, or business activities.