Maldivian authorities have launched a mass legalisation programme allowing undocumented Bangladeshi migrant workers to regularise their status between 1st January and 2nd April 2026.

Bangladesh High Commission in Male announced the three-month initiative, which targets workers without valid work permits. Programme provides a time-bound opportunity for eligible individuals to legalise their employment status and avoid future legal complications.

Workers must meet specific criteria to qualify. Applicants need to currently reside in Maldives, not be blacklisted and must be applying to work for a different employer than their previous company. Notice specified the legalisation facility can be used only once per worker.

Programme also covers workers reported as "missing" before 31st December 2025. This provision extends eligibility to individuals who left their registered employers but remained in Maldives.

Applications must be submitted through Maldives' Expat System by current employers or companies. Maldives Ministry of Homeland Security and Technology will issue user guidelines on the process shortly, according to High Commission statement.

Workers who previously submitted biometric data but are not attached to any employer may participate by completing a designated online form. High Commission urged migrant workers to utilise the programme within the stipulated timeframe.

Bangladesh currently has thousands of migrant workers in Maldives, many employed in tourism, construction and hospitality sectors. Regularisation programme aims to bring undocumented workers into formal employment system while providing legal protections.

High Commission emphasised that workers should act promptly to avoid missing the deadline and facing potential deportation or legal action after programme ends.