Maldives Immigration has declared that electronic passport services are anticipated to restart early next month, after being suspended for over two months.

The service was briefly halted because of delays in receiving the passport booklets necessary for issuing Ordinary Electronic Passports.

In a conversation with state media, PSM, Controller General of Immigration Ahmed Faseeh announced that requests for the necessary materials have been made. He mentioned that the delivery is anticipated to reach by the conclusion of this month or the start of next month, with the distribution of electronic passports scheduled to restart promptly after the stock is received.

The service was halted on May 8 to conserve the remaining supply of passport booklets. Since that time, those applying for regular passports have received Non-Electronic Passports that are machine-readable and adhere to International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards. These passports are valid for a duration of five years.

The cost of an Ordinary Electronic Passport is MVR 1,000, while the Non-Electronic Passport being issued now is priced at MVR 600. Immigration has also specified that those who obtain a non-electronic passport during the suspension period can convert to an electronic passport prior to its expiration without facing any cancellation charges.

Electronic passports feature a built-in chip that allows travelers to access automated e-gate services, permitting them to skip traditional immigration lines. The chip safely retains the holder's personal data, image, and biometric information, such as fingerprints, to enable identity confirmation.

The halt of electronic passport services has captured public interest due to the increased international travel by Maldivians. Immigration is focusing on obtaining more passport booklets to quickly revert to regular services.