The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Maldives has issued an urgent advisory to its citizens planning to travel to India and Sri Lanka, urging them to exercise vigilance due to upcoming changes in immigration regulations in both neighbouring countries.
For those traveling to India, a significant update mandates that all passengers must complete an e-arrival card online prior to entering the country, effective from 10 October. The Ministry has advised travelers to fill out this necessary form within 72 hours of their departure. The official portal for this process is available at: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/earrival/.
The Ministry has clarified that this does not represent a change to the existing visa arrangements or policies concerning Maldivian citizens travelling to India.
Similarly, concerning Sri Lanka, changes to immigration rules will necessitate that all travelers obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before their arrival. This requirement commences on 15 October. Travelers bound for Sri Lanka are instructed to complete the electronic travel authorisation form between 48 and 24 hours before their departure. The designated link for this is: https://eta.gov.lk/slvisa.
As with India, the Ministry has emphasised that this is not a change in the visa policies or arrangements for Maldivian nationals visiting Sri Lanka.
The Ministry has strongly encouraged all Maldivians undertaking travel to India and Sri Lanka to familiarise themselves with these new regulations and ensure all required arrangements are completed well in advance of their journeys. Adherence to these procedures, the Ministry said, is crucial for facilitating smooth travel and avoiding any potential inconveniences.