Govt. to increase USD limit for NSPA patients traveling abroad to USD 2,000

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu states he has instructed to facilitate up to USD 2,000 at bank rate for patients traveling abroad for medical purposes through National Social Protection Agency (NSPA) starting August.  

At present, patients traveling abroad for medical purposes through Aasandha can access up to USD 2,000 at bank rate.

President Muizzu, via a post on X on Monday, said he has instructed to facilitate up to USD 2,000 at bank rate for NSPA patients as well, starting from August, in a move aimed at improving access to foreign currency for those seeking medical treatment abroad.

He added that relevant authorities have been instructed to facilitate up to USD 1,000 for patients traveling abroad for medical purposes at their own expense.

The President’s directive comes amid growing challenges faced by the public in obtaining US dollars for essential needs. With limited access through official channels, many are forced to turn to the black market, where the exchange rate has recently surged to MVR 20.