Controller General of Immigration Mohamed Shamaan Waheed has revealed that efforts are underway to deport the French family that has been living illegally in the Maldives.

The issue has escalated after a media outlet reported that the French family has been living in the Maldives without a visa for 12 years.

The French couple initially came to the Maldives with their three children on tourist visas.

After settling in Veymandoo island of Thaa Atoll, the couple had two more children.

Locals in Veymandoo have reported that due to the lack of visas, they have been homeschooling their children instead of sending them to school.

Shedding light on the issue, Controller General of Immigration Shamaan noted that on 18 July 2024, 'Immigration Watch' received information about a family of French nationality living in the Maldives in violation of the country's immigration laws, and an investigation was launched into the matter.

Shamaan also mentioned that on 23 October 2024, the primary individual involved in the case was summoned to the Immigration Office.

Shamaan stated that since their passports have expired, efforts are underway in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to obtain the necessary travel documents to deport the family from the Maldives. He added that arrangements have been made to deport them as soon as their travel documents are received. Further, Shamaan stressed that no one will be given the opportunity to stay in the Maldives in violation of the Immigration Act.

According to available information, the French couple converted to Islam after arriving in the Maldives. They initially moved to the United Kingdom when living in their home country became challenging and then relocated to the Maldives.

Following media reports on the issue, the government has faced backlash from many for initiating the deportation process. It is said that if they return to France, they may face imprisonment. Consequently, many people are calling on social media for the government to facilitate a way for the family to continue living in the Maldives.