Controller General of Immigration Mohamed Shamaan Waheed has reiterated the Maldives' strict stance on immigration laws, stating that no one will be allowed to reside in the country unlawfully.

His remarks, shared via a post on 'X', follow recent media reports about a French family allegedly living in the Maldives without proper documentation for over a decade.

The French family initially arrived in the Maldives on tourist visas 12 years ago and have since resided in Thaa Veymandoo. During their time in the Maldives, the couple had two additional children, bringing their total to five.

Reports indicate that due to their lack of valid visas, the children are not enrolled in school and are instead homeschooled.

Shamaan disclosed that immigration authorities are actively working to deport the family. Efforts are underway with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to secure the necessary travel documents as the family’s passports have expired. He confirmed that the deportation will proceed once the required documentation is finalised.

The Immigration Office began investigating the matter earlier this year, summoning the main individual involved on October 23, 2024. Authorities are treating the case as a breach of immigration law, reaffirming the Government’s commitment to ensuring compliance.