Maldivians Advised to Exercise Caution as UK Tightens Immigration Procedures

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has urged Maldivians traveling to the United Kingdom to exercise caution amid tighter immigration procedures. In a statement, the Ministry highlighted that the UK government is digitizing and strengthening its border control to prevent the misuse of the immigration system and to enhance security.

Starting November 27, 2024, Maldivians will be among citizens from 49 countries eligible to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), a requirement for entry into the UK. The ETA, which will cost £10, will allow multiple entries to the UK for up to two years, with a maximum stay of six months per trip.

The Ministry added that as of April 2025, the ETA will become mandatory for all nationalities, excluding UK and Irish citizens, before traveling to the UK.