May 2, 2024, 12:19 AM IST

Country where only Muslim get citizenship

Shweta Singh

Citizenship in the Maldives is governed by Islamic principles, with adherence to Islam being a prerequisite.

Any person, who wishes to become a citizen of Maldives, shall submit a written application to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, provided they fulfill the following conditions; They are Muslim.

They have attained the age of 21 and is of sound mind. They have resided in the Maldives for a continuous period of 12 years.

The Maldives operates as a unitary presidential republic with decentralized governance through atoll and island councils.

The Maldives holds the distinction of being the smallest Asian country both in terms of land area and population.

Comprising around 1,200 coral islands grouped into 26 atolls, the Maldives is the planet's lowest-lying country, with its highest point standing just 2.4 meters (7 feet 10 inches) above sea level.

Several areas in the Maldives have been designated as UNESCO Biosphere Reserves due to their unique ecosystems and biodiversity, including the Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve and Addu Atoll Biosphere Reserve.

The Maldives features distinctive Islamic architecture, characterized by coral stone mosques adorned with intricate carvings and ornate domes.