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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Travel
Julie Delahaye

Maldives' entry rules for UK travellers this winter including PCR test requirements

The Maldives' islands have everything you could want for a holiday of a lifetime; ridiculously beautiful beaches, glorious sunny weather, colourful reefs and crystalline waters that are a snorkeler's paradise, and seriously luxurious resorts.

That's not even counting all of the amazing experiences on the islands from underwater restaurants to submarine rides.

The best part is that they're one of the destinations open to Brits for holidays, in excellent timing as winter offers some of the best weather if you want to visit the islands.

Meanwhile, they were one of eight destinations recently removed from the red list, meaning you won't need to stay in a quarantine hotel when you're back. (There are other requirements - more on that below).

So, what are the entry rules if you are planning to visit the Maldives this winter?

Currently the islands are open to all UK travellers, regardless of vaccination status. However, you will need to fill out an online form before travelling, and you'll also need to be able to show proof of a negative PCR test result taken within 96 hours of departure.

The Maldives’ authorities have said there are no plans to quarantine tourists on arrival, but there may be health screenings in place on arrival, and if a traveller tests positive for Covid they will be required to stay in quarantine facilities.

As for when you're back in the UK, the rules have changed this week as the amber list was scrapped. Destinations are now placed on either the red list, or 'rest of the world' list.

You can visit regardless of your vaccination status, as long as you have a negative PCR test (Getty Images/Tetra images RF)

Currently, the Maldives is on the 'rest of the world' list, and requirements when you return will depend on your vaccination status.

If you're fully vaccinated, you'll just need to take a PCR test on day two after landing.

If you're partially vaccinated or unvaccinated, you'll need to take a pre-departure test, as well as PCR tests on days two and eight. You'll also be required to self-isolate for 10 days, although you can opt to pay for a fourth test where a negative result will release you from the self-isolation early.

If you have always dreamed of ticking the Maldives off the bucket list, the good news is that there are ways to keep the costs down, even if the islands aren't exactly renowned for being budget-friendly.

We've got a guide on how to find cheap Maldives holidays which includes tips on everything from the travel firms offering deals, to the best budget-friendly resorts across the islands.

While entry rules are correct at the time of writing, these can change quickly during the pandemic. If you are planning a trip to the Maldives always check the latest Foreign Office advice here before booking or going on a holiday.

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