Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusaan has stated that major changes have been introduced to Maldives Immigration services through digitalisation and the use of modern technology over the past two years.

Speaking at a press conference held at the President’s Office, the minister said significant efforts have been made to digitise immigration services and reduce the need for individuals to visit service counters in person.

Minister Ihusaan noted that the e-visa system, introduced in November 2025, has enabled over 63,000 people to access visa-related services online during the past year. This includes both expatriates residing in the Maldives who need to renew visas and individuals applying for visas to enter the country.

The minister explained that previously, these services required applicants to physically submit passports at immigration offices, while Maldivians also needed to visit immigration counters to complete procedures. With the new digital system, many of these services can now be completed online.

As part of efforts to modernise border control, e-gates have also been installed at Velana International Airport (VIA) to facilitate automated clearance for Maldivian travellers. Additional e-gates have been placed in both the arrival and departure halls to streamline immigration clearance for tourists visiting the Maldives.

According to Minister Ihusaan, 10 e-gates have been installed in the arrival terminal and another 10 in the departure terminal, with the system expected to become operational by April 2026. 

The minister further revealed that biometric data of more than 240,000 expatriates has been collected under Operation Kurangi, with facial recognition technology now integrated into enforcement systems. The technology enables authorities to quickly identify individuals during immigration enforcement operations.

Minister Ihusaan said the use of digital platforms and advanced technologies is intended to strengthen immigration services, improve operational efficiency and support national security efforts. He added that the digital transformation of Government services remains a priority of the Administration of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu.