Maldives: Officials extend state of public health emergency through at least Oct. 31 /update 53

Event

Authorities have extended the state of public health emergency nationwide through Oct. 31 to curb the spread of COVID-19. Nationwide restrictions remain in effect. Unvaccinated people are banned from using public transport and dining in at restaurants. Employees can work at offices, though unvaccinated staff must take a COVID-19 test to enter office buildings. Residents must wear facemasks in public places nationwide, except when exercising. Fully vaccinated people can travel without quarantine to islands that are not under government monitoring and stricter curbs, such as a curfew. The list of islands under government monitoring is unclear. Passengers exiting the Greater Male area must undergo PCR tests no more than 72 hours before departure.

Authorities may enforce more stringent rules in locations with increased COVID-19 activity. The stricter curbs typically include the suspension of entry and exit, daily curfews, and limits for most nonessential businesses for at least two weeks.

International Travel Restrictions
Entrants must submit an online health declaration via the "Imuga" portal within 24 hours before travel and producing proof of a negative result from a PCR test taken within 72 hours before departure. Foreign arrivals must reserve accommodations at approved lodging establishments; split stays between facilities must be approved by the Ministry of Tourism at least two days before departure.

Returning citizens and work permit holders who arrive in the Maldives are exempt from quarantine if they have been fully vaccinated at least 14 days before arrival, or have recovered from COVID-19 in the Maldives and departed for the country within 60 days of receiving a positive test result. Exempted arrivals must provide a negative PCR test obtained within 72 hours before departure and take a PCR test between days 5 and 7 after arrival. All other passengers must quarantine for 14 days upon entry.

Authorities are allowing passengers from some countries, including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, to enter with visas on arrival, provided they are going to resorts.

Any person staying for over 48 hours in the Greater Male region must take a pre-departure COVID-19 test within 72 hours before leaving the Maldives. Officials have advised Maldivian citizens to refrain from all nonessential international travel.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm business appointments, deliveries, and travel arrangements, especially across Greater Male. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. If intending to travel within the Maldives liaise with the local authorities for any additional travel document requirements. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments.

Resources

Ministry of Health (English)
World Health Organization (WHO)
Imuga Health Declaration Portal
Ministry of Tourism Split Stay Application
Maldives Police Movement Pass Application