Maldivians in Sri Lanka to benefit from one-year visa under new bilateral agreement

Maldivians residing in Sri Lanka for work or study will now be eligible for a one-year visa, following a joint agreement between the two nations announced during Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s official visit to the Maldives.

In a joint statement issued during the visit, President Mohamed Muizzu expressed gratitude to the Sri Lankan government for facilitating one-year medical and spousal visas for Maldivian nationals. He described the gesture as a reflection of the enduring bond between the two countries.

President Muizzu emphasized that the Maldives–Sri Lanka relationship is deeply rooted in mutual respect and shared interests. He expressed confidence that President Anura’s visit would serve to further elevate diplomatic and people-to-people ties.

Addressing areas of mutual cooperation, the President highlighted the fisheries sector as a critical pillar for both economies, affirming a commitment to collaborate on combating illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing.

On the topic of climate change, President Muizzu identified it as a pressing and shared threat, urging swift collective action. He reiterated the Maldives’ ongoing environmental initiatives and pledged continued efforts to safeguard the region's ecological future.

He also extended congratulations to President Anura on Sri Lanka’s steady recovery from its recent economic challenges, commending the resilience demonstrated by the nation.