President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has decided to reform and enhance the medical system for expatriates living in the Maldives.

The President made this decision following discussions on a paper submitted by the Ministry of Finance during Sunday’s Cabinet meeting.

Following this decision, it is now mandatory for expatriates residing in the Maldives, particularly those from 'endemic' countries, to undergo 'on-arrival' and yearly medical check-ups as per the rules and regulations before arriving and staying in the Maldives. Additionally, all foreigners who intend to stay in the Maldives for an extended period on dependent visa, work visa, resident visa, student visa, corporate resident visa must undergo 'on arrival' and medical checks once a year and must undergo medical checks even if they apply for a marriage visa for the first time.

The President further decided to reduce the duration of medical check-ups after arrival from 30 to 15 days. The government will also take steps to reform and reinforce medical screenings for expatriates in the Maldives, and make mandatory to complete medical screenings for all expatriates in the Maldives over the next six months.

Following the President's decision, methods will be developed to prevent diseases that have been eliminated and controlled in the Maldives from recurring.