Parliament resolution seeks Aasandha access for foreign spouses of Maldivians

A resolution has been submitted to Parliament seeking to extend Aasandha health insurance coverage to foreigners living in the Maldives who are married to Maldivian citizens.

The resolution was introduced by Galolhu North MP Mohamed Ibrahim of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) during Monday’s sitting. The proposal aims to determine Parliament’s view on granting Aasandha eligibility to foreign spouses of Maldivians. The first reading of the resolution was held during the same session.

According to the resolution, the Maldivian Constitution does not discriminate between citizens and foreigners residing within the country’s jurisdiction in the granting of rights, except in matters relating to contesting elections and holding public office.

It stated that a significant number of Maldivians are married to foreigners and that Aasandha — designed to cover healthcare costs — currently provides benefits only to registered Maldivian nationals.

The resolution also noted that many foreign spouses live their entire lives in the Maldives, raise children, and contribute to Maldivian society.

It further stated that the Citizenship Act, which governs how foreigners may acquire Maldivian citizenship, is over 50 years old and has limited the opportunities for foreign spouses to obtain citizenship. As a result, many such individuals — particularly elderly residents — face difficulties accessing healthcare for chronic illnesses.

The resolution emphasised that these foreigners, as members of Maldivian families, are entitled to equal care, protection, and access to state services.