Apr 25, Colombo: The government of Sri Lanka has requested the government of Kuwait extend the time allowed for overstaying Sri Lankans to return until 30 May.

Foreign Relations Minister Dinesh Gunawardena made this request when he met Kuwait's ambassador to Sri Lanka Khalaf Bu Dhhair at the Foreign Ministry recently.

The Sri Lanka Foreign Employment Bureau (SLBFE) said in a statement today that it has requested Kuwait to reconsider the general period of time granted for Sri Lankans illegally residing in Kuwait to leave without a fine. The period granted for Sri Lankans to apply for general amnesty ends today.

The government of Kuwait has granted an amnesty from April 1-30 to all undocumented expatriates to leave at Kuwait’s expense without paying fines, with a chance to return in the future. Sri Lankan nationals can apply from April 20 to 25.

The Kuwaiti government has also taken steps to provide the undocumented workers with food and shelter.

A Kuwait Times report yesterday said the Sri Lankan Embassy in Kuwait has dissuaded the undocumented Sri Lankan from taking the opportunity to apply for amnesty as Sri Lanka is virtually locked down and the airport is closed.