Government working to secure Schengen visa concessions for Maldivians: Foreign Minister

Foreign Minister Irtisham Adam has announced that the government is actively working to secure concessions for Maldivian citizens applying for Schengen visas to travel to European countries. Speaking at the “Ahaa” forum, jointly organized by the Office of the President and PSM News, the minister stated that efforts are being made around the clock by embassies worldwide and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to strengthen the Maldives' connection with the international community and find easier travel options for citizens. He noted that Europe is a popular destination for Maldivians, but obtaining Schengen visas has been difficult. The government is continuously working to secure concessions in this regard. While applications for Schengen visas previously required travel to Sri Lanka, they are now submitted through VFS Global in the Maldives. The Foreign Minister highlighted that numerous consultations are ongoing with European countries and the European Union to secure additional concessions, including talks held in February this year. He emphasized that Maldivian citizens do not face issues while traveling and that their travel is for beneficial tourism, education, or settlement. Consultations are also being held with specific countries under the Schengen visa scheme and for visas to other countries, such as Malaysia and Sri Lanka, where many Maldivians reside.