The government has amended recent changes to the Foreign Employment Regulations, allowing foreign nationals to continue working as babysitters following public concern over proposed restrictions.
Under the amendments introduced on Sunday, quotas were imposed on foreign workers in specific sectors, outlining timelines for when certain jobs would be restricted to Maldivians. As part of the original changes, childcare services for families where both parents are employed, including babysitting, were set to be prohibited for foreign workers within two years.
However, the proposal prompted widespread public concern, particularly on social media, with many highlighting the challenges faced by working families. In response, the government has revised the regulation, permitting foreign babysitters to continue working in the Maldives.
The updated Foreign Employment Regulations introduce restrictions on foreign workers across multiple sectors, with implementation periods ranging from two to five years, depending on the profession.
According to the regulations, occupations scheduled to be restricted to Maldivian nationals within two years include hairdressers, beauticians, personal trainers, electricians, English-speaking guest relations officers, tour guides, accountants and imams.
Authorities said the revisions aim to balance workforce localisation efforts with practical social needs, while ensuring a gradual transition for affected sectors.