Maldives Immigration has introduced a streamlined process for extending tourist visas, with approvals now expected to be completed within 48 hours.
Tourists who receive a 30-day visa on arrival can now apply for extensions more conveniently through the Imuga portal, following changes aimed at simplifying procedures and reducing processing time.
The update comes as ongoing disruptions linked to the Middle East conflict have affected travel plans, leading to flight cancellations and forcing some visitors to prolong their stays. Authorities noted that tourism operators had called for more flexible measures to manage these challenges.
Speaking at a press briefing held at the President’s Office, Ali Ihusaan, Minister of Homeland Security, Labour and Technology, said the ministry worked closely with Maldives Immigration to overhaul the system.
Under the previous process, applicants were required to submit nine documents and wait up to five days for approval. With the revised system, only a passport-sized photograph is needed, and approvals are now issued within one to two days.
The minister said the reform supports the government’s broader Maldives 2.0 initiative to improve public service delivery, adding that facilitating visa extensions is essential for visitors needing to remain in the country longer.
Maldives Immigration stated that the simplified process maintains strict security standards while improving efficiency.
Meanwhile, the government, together with Visit Maldives, is working to diversify tourist markets, as arrivals from some regions have declined amid the ongoing situation in the Middle East.
