COVID-19 test for a trip to the Maldives: who needs it, requirements

The Maldives was one of the first tourist destinations to open in the coronavirus 2020. Nevertheless, to visit the paradise islands, a PCR test is required. The exact requirements further in the article with the nuances that you need to know before traveling to the Maldives.

Who needs a PCR test in the Maldives

Since September 10, 2020, in connection with the coronavirus pandemic in the Maldives, new entry rules have been introduced. Among them, the presence of a negative PCR test for COVID-19. This applies to absolutely all tourists arriving in the Maldives. An exception is infants under one year of age as well as people who are vaccinated (read about vaccinations further in the article). The airline may refuse boarding if the traveler does not have a negative PCR certificate for COVID-19.

• The test must be done no more than 96 hours prior to arrival in the Maldives.
• If a tourist flies to the Maldives with a transfer and the period of stay at the transit airport does not exceed 24 hours, a test made in the country of departure is sufficient.
• If the waiting time at the transit airport is more than a day, it is necessary to retest.

Mufid Majnun

PCR test requirements for COVID-19 in 2021

The document can be issued on the forms of different countries and laboratories, but there is information that must be contained in the PCR test.

• The test must be submitted in English.
• It should contain the following information: last name and first name (as in the passport), passport data, type of testing (PCR), time of sampling, name and address of the laboratory that performed the analysis, test result (negative).
• Wet print or electronic version? A negative PCR test can be shown both in the original and from a smartphone or tablet.

If a tourist shows symptoms of COVID-19 upon arrival in the Maldives, they may be asked to re-undergo PCR testing.

Shamia Casiano

How to get a QR code

In addition, those traveling to the Maldives must complete a health declaration in advance. It is filled out online on the website of the Immigration Center of the Maldives, no later than a day before departure to the Maldives.

• The PCR test and declaration must be uploaded together, after which a QR code will be assigned.
• After submitting the form, it will be available on the Maldives Immigration Center website.
• The QR code must be saved and presented during passport control at Male Airport.
• Not earlier than a day before departure, you must repeat the same procedure by filling out a declaration and receiving a QR code

Do not forget that you must have a health insurance policy with you that covers the risks associated with COVID-19.

Markus Winkle

About vaccination

Tourists who have been vaccinated against Covid-19 with any vaccine will still need to provide a negative PCR test to enter the Maldives. For more details on vaccinations and other nuances of visiting the Maldives during a pandemic, read the article at the link below.