Maldives Immigration Expands Passport Services to Dharavandhoo to Ease Resident Travel

Maldives Immigration has officially launched passport services in Dharavandhoo, Baa Atoll, marking a significant step in the government's strategy to decentralize essential public services. Residents of Baa Atoll now have the convenience of accessing passport services from two separate islands within their atoll. To utilize the service, applicants must submit their requests online via the Imuga portal. During the application process, users can now select either Dharavandhoo or Eydhafushi as their preferred collection point, streamlining the process for those living in the northern regions of the atoll. This expansion is part of a broader national initiative to strengthen decentralization by bringing critical government functions closer to the people. Previously, many citizens were forced to travel to the capital, Malé, to secure passports and national identity cards. These trips often resulted in significant financial burdens due to travel and accommodation costs. The government has committed to ensuring that passport and national identity card services are available on at least one island in every atoll across the archipelago. By removing the necessity of traveling to the capital for basic documentation, the state aims to reduce the economic strain on island residents and increase the efficiency of administrative delivery. By integrating digital applications through the Imuga portal with localized collection points, Maldives Immigration is transitioning toward a more accessible service model. This move is expected to significantly reduce waiting times and logistical hurdles for thousands of citizens residing outside the Greater Malé area.