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If you are planning to settle permanently in Maldives, there are a few things you need to know. You can work as well as live in the country by virtue of the work and residence permits that are issued by the Maldives government. In the country, getting an employment offer is already one step closer to permanent residence.

Employment for foreign nationals is only possible in Maldives under the permission granted by the Ministry of Employment and Labour. In line with this, the immigration department also issues a resident permit or a working visa based on the duration and terms of the work permit that a foreign national can secure. Because of this, an individual who intends to work in Maldives should already have a copy of his work permit with him upon his arrival.

It is your responsibility to make confirmation of your employment and receive a copy of your work permit before you even depart for Maldives from your country of origin. As your resident permit is dependent on your work permit's validity, you and your employer should make sure that everything about it is in order. Failure to do so may result in the cancellation of your resident permit upon your re-entry to or departure from Maldives. You have to take note that if you have entered Maldives by virtue of a tourist visa, then you will not be permitted to have your visa converted to a resident permit to allow you to work in the country.