The South Ari Atoll Council has officially launched identity card (ID) printing and issuing services.

According to the Department of National Registration (DNR), residents of South Ari Atoll can now obtain their Maldivian citizenship ID cards without having to leave their islands. The new service is expected to significantly speed up processing times and enhance overall efficiency.

This initiative forms part of a broader national policy aimed at ensuring ID card services are available in every atoll and inhabited island across the Maldives. As ID cards are integral to accessing a range of government and private services, expanding local access remains a priority.

In addition to South Ari Atoll, ID card services have also been introduced through the councils of Baa Atoll’s Dharavandhoo and Eydhafushi. The Government aims to provide these services on all inhabited islands by the end of the year.

Work is also underway to extend ID card services to Maldivians residing overseas. Preparations are in progress to launch the service in Sri Lanka, India, and the United Kingdom. Malaysia was the first foreign country to offer this service.

The nationwide rollout gained momentum in November last year, with Gaafu Alifu Vilingili becoming the first location outside the Malé region to establish ID card services.

Officials say the expansion reflects the Government’s continued commitment to making essential services more accessible to Maldivians, both at home and abroad.