Passport services to be launched in Addu City, Kulhudhuffushi

The President’s Office has said that following a request by President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom, the Department of Immigration and Emigration has decided to introduce passport issuing service in Addu City and Kulhudhuffushi before the end of the week.

Spokesperson of President’s Office Muaz Ali told Sun Online today that this decision by the President to offer passport issuing service in the north and south of Maldives, follows concerns shared with him by citizens during his visits to the atolls.

“When he met with people during his visits to the atolls, they shared with him that they face serious difficulties due to having to travel to Male’ to obtain passport services, and other similar services. The President has directed the heads of the Immigration Department to launch this service as soon as possible, if possible, tomorrow,” said Muaz.

Haveeru has reported that according to Immigration Controller Hassan Ali, passport issuing service will be launched in Addu City tomorrow, and on Friday in Kulhudhuffushi.

Presently, offices in eight regions across the country accept passport application forms, but the applicant must travel to Male’ to collect his passport.

The introduction of passport services in the atolls within five years is among the several election pledges made by President Yameen.