The Bank of Maldives (BML) has introduced a new feature on its Mobile App allowing customers to request US dollars for overseas medical treatment directly through the platform.

With this update, customers travelling abroad for healthcare can submit the necessary documents and information digitally, removing the need for in-person processing.

The bank stated that applicants will also be able to track the status of their requests in real time through the app.

Under the revised arrangement, individuals travelling for treatment under the sponsorship of Aasandha or National Social Protection Agency (NSPA) are eligible to purchase up to USD 2,000.

Those seeking medical care at their own expense may purchase up to USD 1,000. BML confirmed that the approved foreign currency will be credited directly to the applicant’s BML account.

In terms of documentation, applicants sponsored by Aasandha or NSPA are required to submit their assistance approval letter, flight tickets, and passport copies.

Self-funded travellers must provide a doctor’s letter confirming the need for medical treatment along with proof of a confirmed hospital appointment.

The bank further noted that if the approved funds are to be deposited into the account of a caregiver or another third party, an official document verifying the relationship between the patient and the recipient must be provided.

BML has also highlighted recent adjustments to debit card limits aimed at easing overseas transactions.

Since November, the limit for point-of-sale (POS) payments abroad has been raised to USD 1,000.

Additionally, the debit card ceiling for airline ticket purchases and hotel payments overseas has been increased to USD 3,000.

These measures are set to provide greater convenience for customers travelling abroad for medical purposes, particularly when settling hospital and related expenses.