The Maldives and Seychelles have taken a step towards closer mobility and cooperation, signing a visa waiver agreement that will allow citizens of both countries to travel without obtaining a visa in advance.
The agreement was finalised during the official visit to the Maldives by Seychelles Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism Barry Faure. It allows citizens of both countries to travel and stay for up to 30 days without a visa.
Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Iruthisham Adam said it was a pleasure to begin implementing the visa-free travel arrangement from 15 May. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the commencement of the agreement during Minister Faure’s first official visit to the Maldives as an important step in further strengthening bilateral relations.
The ministry said the agreement reflects the close friendship and cooperation between the Maldives and Seychelles, particularly as fellow Small Island Developing States. Both countries share common interests in areas such as tourism, ocean governance, climate resilience and regional cooperation.
Foreign Minister Iruthisham expressed hope that the agreement would strengthen people-to-people connections between the two nations, revitalise tourism and related investment opportunities, and encourage citizens of both countries to experience each other’s natural beauty and marine environments.
The Maldives and Seychelles established diplomatic relations on 1 July 1980. This year marks the 46th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two island nations.
