The Ministry of Homeland Security has announced that employers can now cancel work permits that remain unpaid, provided they agree to settle the outstanding fees and penalties at a later date.

According to the ministry, the decision aims to provide employers with greater flexibility in managing work permits and maintaining employee records for foreign workers in the Maldives.

Under the revised policy, employers may cancel work permits through the Expat system without making immediate payment of the related fees or penalties. The payments can be made later, once the employer has agreed to fulfil the dues.

The ministry further stated that quota slots linked to revoked permits will be released after the associated fees and penalties have been fully collected.