Maldives Immigration officially launched its comprehensive digitisation of immigration services on Monday, marking a significant stride under the nation's "Maldives 2.0" digitisation policy framework.
A special ceremony, designed to elevate the agency's operational efficiency and public service, was graced by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu.
The event saw the introduction of a new suite of digital tools aimed at modernising the immigration landscape. Among these were the Maldives Immigration's new mobile application, an advanced facial recognition application dubbed "M ID Checker," and a streamlined e-visa service.
Controller General of Immigration, Commissioner of Police (Rtd) Ahmed Faseeh, unveiled the new mobile application. This platform is designed to consolidate and provide the public with access to all up-to-date services offered by Maldives Immigration from a single, convenient platform.
Following this, Minister of Homeland Security and Technology, Ali Ihsan, officially launched the "M ID Checker" facial recognition application. Immigration said that the "M ID Checker" represents a crucial step in the government's "Maldives 2.0" agenda to effectively address issues concerning illegal immigration within the archipelago.
A particularly impactful launch was the new "e-visa" service. This initiative promises to revolutionise the visa application process, doing away with the protracted, in-person requirements previously necessary for foreigners residing in or visiting the Maldives. With the e-visa, all processing will now be conducted online, ensuring greater ease and efficiency for applicants.
President Dr Muizzu was also presented with a special commemorative plaque by Maldives Immigration during the ceremony, acknowledging his support for this transformative digital leap.
The newly established services are expected to significantly enhance the user experience for both residents and visitors, while simultaneously bolstering the nation's capacity to manage and secure its borders.