News Desk
In a recent turn of events, the deadline for all foreign nationals presently working in the country to submit their medical reports and work permits, along with the associated fees, has been extended to July.
The Ministry of Homeland Security and Technology initially issued a notice mandating the submission of medical reports at the earliest payment of work permit fees. However, the extension was granted due to challenges faced by both companies and foreign workers in preparing a multitude of medical reports simultaneously, as cited by the Ministry of Internal Security.
One of the contributing factors to this extension is the overcrowding of clinics and hospitals, making it logistically challenging for the timely processing of medical reports. Foreign workers were initially instructed to submit their medical reports along with the work permit fees. Nevertheless, recognizing the practical difficulties, the deadline for the submission of workers’ medical reports has been extended to July 4, providing an additional six-month timeframe.
According to the Foreigners Employment Regulations, every foreigner entering the country for employment purposes must be accompanied by a medical report. This measure is in place to prevent the introduction of communicable diseases that have been eradicated from the country and to screen for other potential health risks.
A recent incident involving foreign workers in Kulhudhuhfushi, located in the northern part of the country, and some in Hulhumale’, revealed cases of Filariasis,a disease caused by a chronic mosquito-borne parasitic infection, that had been eradicated from the country. It was noted that these individuals had entered the country without adhering to the required medical report procedures. As a consequence, 32 foreigners have been infected, prompting a reinforcement of the mandatory medical report submission.
A specific “work permit medical” is now required along with the screening report for specified diseases. The Ministry of Internal Security has issued a warning, stating that action will be taken against those who fail to submit their medical examination before the revised deadline in July 2024.
This development underscores the government’s commitment to safeguard public health and maintain stringent protocols for the entry and employment of foreign workers, particularly in light of recent health concerns arising from non-compliance with established procedures.
