'Govt. seeking visa-on-arrival arrangements for Maldivians travelling to Europe'

Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam has stated that the government is continuously working to establish arrangements that would enable Maldivians to travel to European countries with visa-free entry or visas on arrival.

Speaking at Monday night’s "Ahaa" forum, held to address public inquiries, Iruthisham emphasized that strengthening foreign relations and securing easier travel opportunities for Maldivians are key priorities of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s administration.

The Minister noted that although the Maldives is a popular destination for European tourists, many Maldivians also travel to Europe for education, holidays, and family-related purposes. In this regard, official discussions have been held this year with both the European Union (EU) and individual member states to facilitate easier access to Schengen visas for Maldivians.

Furthermore, the Minister stated that efforts are underway through bilateral political consultations with other countries to secure visa-on-arrival facilities and formalize visa waiver agreements.

Iruthisham added that the government’s core policy is to safeguard the independence and national interests of the Maldives while ensuring that Maldivians are respected internationally and provided with comprehensive travel facilitation.