Maldives Immigration has simplified the process for tourists to extend their visas, removing existing difficulties and streamlining the entire procedure.

According to the agency, these significant changes were introduced today under the "Maldives 2.0" initiative, which aims to modernize and strengthen immigration services. A key feature of the new system is that tourists are no longer required to re-enter information already available in the immigration database. Data such as passport details and accommodation records will now be automatically populated by the system.

Those wishing to extend their stay can apply through the "Imuga" portal. Immigration noted that by simply entering a passport number or uploading the passport biodata page, the system will automatically retrieve the individual's information.

Under the new rules, applicants generally only need to submit a passport-sized photo taken within the last year. A new upload of the passport biodata page is only required if the passport has been renewed or if there are discrepancies between the system's data and the current passport. Furthermore, if a tourist has moved to a different hotel or guesthouse, they can now update this information themselves.

These changes have significantly reduced processing times. While the extension process previously took up to five days, the new system ensures that visa extensions are processed and approved within 48 hours.