The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued an urgent travel advisory for Maldivian citizens planning to visit India and Sri Lanka, urging them to exercise caution and comply with upcoming changes to immigration regulations in both countries.
For travellers heading to India, a new requirement mandates that all passengers must complete an online e-arrival card before entering the country, effective from 10 October. According to the Ministry, travellers are required to fill out the form within 72 hours prior to departure.
The Ministry clarified that this update does not alter existing visa arrangements or policies applicable to Maldivian citizens visiting India.
Similarly, new immigration rules in Sri Lanka will require all travellers to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before arrival, starting 15 October. Travellers are instructed to complete the online authorisation between 48 and 24 hours before departure.
As with India, the Ministry confirmed that this measure does not constitute a change in the visa policy for Maldivian nationals travelling to Sri Lanka.
The Ministry has urged all Maldivians planning to travel to either destination to familiarise themselves with these updated procedures and complete all necessary formalities ahead of time to avoid any travel disruptions or delays.
