The Department of Immigration and Emigration has revised its requirement for photo standards used in Maldivian Travel Documents. The new photographic guidelines follow the revised standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the governing body that recommends standards for travel documents. The ICAO standards have been revised to accommodate the introduction of biometrically enabled passports, known as electronic passports or ePassports, with the potential to use Facial Recognition Technology (FRT) as part of border facilitation. .It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the photo submitted meets the requirements in these guidelines. Some applicants, because of either physical or mental disability, will find it difficult to meet our requirements. We are able to therefore accept an applicant’s statement that they cannot meet the requirement because of disability. In these instances we ask that as good an image as possible is captured. If you need further advice, or feel that you cannot meet one or more of our requirements, please contact the Department of Immigration and Emigration. Please note that photographs become part of the official records of the Department and will not be returned. A photo of the holder is an essential part of a Travel Document. A good clear photo means that the holder can be easily identified as they cross international borders. Please ensure staff taking photographs for Maldivian Travel Documents are familiar with these guidelines and have the appropriate skills and experience to meet the photographic requirements. Any photos not meeting the acceptable standard as per these guidelines will be rejected.
