The Maldives was removed from the red list on September 22 – and, on September 28, the Foreign Office lifted its Covid-related advice against visiting. All of this is fantastic timing, of course, as the nation is one of the UK’s favourite winter sun destinations. 

If you’re planning an escape to the Maldives this season, read on to see the latest requirements – including any testing, vaccination and quarantine rules.

Can I travel to the Maldives? 

Yes. The Maldives is categorised as low risk by the UK Government, meaning you can travel there on holiday. On September 22, the country was removed from our red list – meaning that arrivals from the Maldives no longer need to enter hotel quarantine on their return.

In addition, the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) no longer advises against non-essential travel to the nation – making it easier to obtain insurance.

From the Maldives’ point of view, Britons can holiday at a resort without having to quarantine on arrival.

Will I be insured if I go? 

The FCDO no longer advises against non-essential travel (ie. holidays) to the Maldives based on its Covid risks, meaning that travel insurance is simpler to come by. 

What rules must I follow to enter?

All visitors over the age of one must present evidence of a negative PCR test for Covid taken within 96 hours of departure, regardless of vaccination status.

They must also fill in a Traveller Health Declaration Form 24 hours before travelling to the country and an Immigration Arrival Card when they land. Temperature and screening checks are also in place on arrival. Quarantine facilities are set up to isolate any suspected cases of the virus.

Anyone who does show symptoms when they arrive will be required to take another test at their cost or at the cost of the place they are booked to stay in the Maldives. 

All visitors are also asked to download the contract tracing app ‘Trace Ekee’ when or before they arrive.