The Government has announced plans to gradually phase out the recruitment of foreign workers in several sectors, giving priority to Maldivian employment.
Amendments to the Employment of Foreigners in Maldives Regulations, announced on Sunday, introduce a phased ban on hiring foreigners for specific jobs.
Two years after the regulations take effect, foreigners will no longer be allowed to work as hairdressers, beauticians, babysitters, personal trainers, electricians, tour guides, accountants, guest relations officers (English) and imams.
Within three years, foreign recruitment will be banned for divers, nurses, building inspectors, surveyors, site supervisors and pilots.
The regulations also state that work permits will not be issued for taxi drivers, aircraft pilots and first officers, vessel captains, and jobs in photography, videography and entertainment, unless there is a shortage of qualified Maldivians.
After four years, foreign quotas for electrical engineers and dive instructors will end. After five years, foreigners will be barred from managerial roles such as housekeeping, human resources and front office managers, as well as from primary and secondary school teaching positions.
The Government said the changes are part of wider efforts to regulate expatriate labour and protect opportunities for Maldivians.
