Maldives and Russia has signed an agreement, which effectively exempts visa requirements for Maldivians travelling to Russia.

"As per the agreement concluded on 25 June 2019 between the Maldives and Russian Federation on Mutual Exemption of Visa Requirements for Nationals of the Republic of Maldives and Nationals of the Russian Federation, Maldivians travelling to the Russian Federation will be exempted from visa, to enter into, stay in, exit from or transit through the territory of the Russian Federation, effective from today, 25 July 2019," Foreign Ministry said in a statement issued Thursday.

This applies for all Maldivian nationals holding valid travel documents and not intending to work, study or reside in the territory of the Russian Federation.

It is important that all travelers ensure that they have with them confirmed hotel bookings, return tickets and adequate funds while travelling to Russia.