Passport services remain available during Independence Day holidays

As the Maldives prepares to mark its 60th Independence Day this Saturday, the Maldives Immigration has announced that passport services will remain operational throughout the holiday period, offering flexibility for those planning to travel during the extended break.

Despite official government closures from Sunday till Tuesday, the Immigration Office will facilitate passport services to accommodate the high travel demand expected over the long weekend.

Key service hours during the Independence Day period are as follows:

- Saturday (July 26): Passport applications will be accepted from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., with token numbers issued during the same hours.

- Monday (July 28) & Tuesday (July 29): Applicants can submit passports from 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., with token distribution also from 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

In addition, the public may apply for passports online 24/7 via the IMUGA portal, streamlining access for routine and urgent requests. Special provision has also been made for individuals aged 65 and above, as well as emergency cases, ensuring priority handling.

This year’s Independence Day falls in the weekend and the beginning of the school holidays, creating a rare four-day break. As a result, a significant number of residents are expected to travel abroad, leading to increased demand for passport renewals and urgent travel documents.

Authorities advise the public to plan ahead and make use of the available services to avoid delays during what is expected to be one of the busiest travel periods of the year.