Maldives Seeks Visa-Free and Visa-on-Arrival Access for Citizens Travelling to Europe
- Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam announced efforts to secure visa-free and visa-on-arrival access to European countries for Maldivians.
- Officials held discussions this year with the EU and member states to ease Schengen visa access for citizens travelling for education, holidays, and family visits.
- The Foreign Ministry is also pursuing bilateral consultations with other countries to establish visa-on-arrival facilities and visa waiver agreements.
The Maldivian government is actively working to secure visa-free entry and visa-on-arrival arrangements for Maldivians travelling to European countries, Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam has announced.
Speaking during the 11th “Ahaa” public forum on 9 November 2026, Minister Iruthisham stated that strengthening foreign relations and expanding travel opportunities for citizens remain key priorities for President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s administration. Cabinet ministers use the forum to answer questions directly from the public.
While the Maldives attracts large numbers of European tourists, the Minister noted that many Maldivians also travel to Europe for education, holidays, and family visits. To simplify these journeys, officials have held discussions this year with both the European Union (EU) and individual member states to ease access to Schengen visas.
Alongside these European negotiations, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is conducting bilateral political consultations with several other countries to establish visa-on-arrival facilities and formalise new visa waiver agreements.
Outlining the administration’s wider diplomatic approach, Minister Iruthisham emphasised that the government’s core foreign policy focuses on safeguarding the Maldives’ independence and national interests while ensuring citizens receive international respect and comprehensive travel facilitation.
