Maldives Foreign Ministry has instructed Maldivians traveling to Russia to travel to the country via a direct flight originating from the Maldives.
The “Agreement between the Government of Maldives and the Government of the Russian Federation on mutual exemption of visa requirements for nationals of the Republic of Maldives and for nationals of the Russian Federation” entered into force starting from 25 July 2019. The agreement provides 90 days on arrival visa to Maldivian travelers who do not intend to work, study or reside in Russia.
However, as part of stricter border control measures implemented by the Russian Federation due to the prevailing COVID-19 pandemic, Maldivians can now travel to Russian Federation only via a direct flight originating from the Maldives, said the Foreign Ministry. Therefore, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs urges Maldivians traveling to Russian Federation to be cautious of these restrictions and to check for the most updated travel guidelines prior to travelling, as these guidelines are subject to change.
