Parliament accepts resolution on Aasandha for foreigners married to Maldivians

Parliament has accepted a resolution seeking MPs’ views on extending Aasandha, the universal health insurance scheme, to foreigners married to Maldivians.

The resolution, submitted by Galolhu North MDP MP Mohamed Ibrahim, was passed unanimously by 47 members and referred to the Social Committee for further consideration.

In his resolution, MP Mohamed highlighted that many foreigners have contributed to the state and even represented the national team.

He clarified that this does not concern foreigners seeking marriage visas primarily to work in Maldives.

“There are many foreigners married to Maldivians who pay taxes and are now older, some grandparents. We have to take care of them. We are not talking about everyone,” he said.

MP Mohamed suggested that eligibility rules could be established, such as requiring insurance coverage when issuing marriage visas, a minimum period of residence in the Maldives, or having children.

“After getting a child or two If a person’s life here [in Maldives] is stable, we have a responsibility to care for them,” he added.