Government Introduces Flexible Payment Plan for Vehicle and Vessel Fees

Maldivian government has introduced a new payment option that allows individuals to settle annual fees and fines for land vehicles and marine vessels in monthly installments. This arrangement comes under the recently gazetted Regulations on the Allocation of Annual Fees and Penalties Payable for Road Vehicles and Marine Vessels, issued by the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation.

The initiative aims to offer a more manageable way for individuals facing financial difficulties to pay their fees, including penalties for late payments. To be eligible for the flexible payment plan, individuals must meet five criteria: the total amount owed must exceed USD 648, the payment due date must have passed, they must request the payment plan, and they must not have used this option before. Additionally, they must be the registered owner of the vehicle or vessel in question.

A commitment fee must be paid to access the plan, and if not paid within 14 days, the request will be canceled. Once the payment is made, an agreement will be drawn up, specifying the minimum monthly amount owed. If payments are not made within 30 days of the agreed schedule, the Ministry can terminate the agreement.

Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, Mohamed Ameen, emphasized that the new regulation reflects President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's vision to make life easier for the public, offering more accessible and flexible financial solutions.