NewsApril 30, 2021

Maldives Requires Traveler’s Negative PCR Test Done 96 Hours Prior Departure

Effective from 3rd May 2021, all inbound travelers are required to present negative PCR test result, with the sample taken not more than 96 hours prior to departure to #Maldives. This includes travelers who have also completed the administration of their 2nd dose of COVID-19 vaccine.

Under the released order signed by the Health Protection Agency of Maldives on 30th April, this however, does not apply for children below 1 year of age. The negative PCR test result must be attached while completing Traveler Health Declaration form, which has to be submitted online via IMUGA (www.imuga.immigration.gov.mv), by all arriving passengers before arrival (but not exceeding 24 hours before arrival time).

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Maldives reopened borders to all nationalities from 15th July 2020. All visitors are granted a 30-day free on-arrival visa with a confirmed booking for a stay at any registered tourist facility in the country. Maldives resorts and liveaboards continues to welcome tourists from all countries.

Due to the surge in COVID-19 cases in India, Maldives is now implementing stringent measures including a temporary suspension of Indian tourists for stays only at guesthouses and local hotels in residential Maldivian islands from 27th April 2021. This temporary ban does not apply to resorts and hotels located away from the local population.

As per the released travel restrictions released on 25th April 2021:

– Travelers from India to Maldives (including those who have spent over 24 hours in transit in India) are required to present proof of a negative PCR test taken no more than 92 hours before when entering Maldives. This includes those who have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

– Maldivian citizens and work permit holders who arrive in Maldives from India, including those who have been vaccinated against COVID-19, are required to get a PCR test done within 24 hours upon arrival, and undergo 10 days of quarantine. They will be released from quarantine once they test negative upon completion of the quarantine period. This does not include children under the age of one year.

– Indian tourists are also required to undergo a PCR test prior to departure from Maldives.

– While Indian tourists are no longer be permitted to check in to hotels and guesthouses in residential islands starting April 27, those already checked into hotels and guesthouses will be allowed to stay at such facilities till the completion of their booking duration.

India was the top source market for tourism in the Maldives in the year 2020 and remains as the top source market even in 2021. According to statistics publicized by the Tourism Ministry, Indian tourists made up 11.3% of total tourist arrivals to the Maldives in 2020.