Maldives Warns Travellers of New Immigration Rules in India and Sri Lanka

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Maldives has issued an urgent advisory for citizens planning to travel to India and Sri Lanka, urging heightened vigilance due to upcoming changes in immigration regulations in both countries.

For travel to India, all passengers are now required to complete an e-arrival card online before entering the country, effective from 10 October. The Ministry has advised travellers to submit the form within 72 hours of departure via the official portal at https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/earrival/. The Ministry clarified that this update does not alter existing visa arrangements or policies for Maldivian citizens travelling to India.

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For Sri Lanka, new rules require all travellers to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before arrival, effective from 15 October. Travellers are instructed to complete the ETA form between 48 and 24 hours prior to departure through https://eta.gov.lk/slvisa. The Ministry confirmed that this requirement does not constitute a change to the visa policies for Maldivian nationals visiting Sri Lanka.

The Ministry has urged all Maldivians travelling to India and Sri Lanka to familiarise themselves with the new regulations and ensure all necessary arrangements are completed well in advance. Compliance with these procedures is essential to ensure smooth travel and avoid potential disruptions.