Vehicle Ownership Change in the Maldives

Streamlining Vehicle Ownership Transfer in the Maldives with Hushihei

Transferring vehicle ownership in the Maldives can be challenging, particularly due to the unique requirements for regions such as Malé, Hulhumalé, Villimalé, and other islands. Hushihei simplifies this process by guiding you through every crucial step. Whether you are purchasing, selling, or transferring a vehicle for different reasons, this guide details the necessary steps and how Hushihei can help.

Comprehensive Guide to Transferring Vehicle Ownership

In the Maldives, changing vehicle ownership entails transferring legal rights and obligations from the seller to the buyer. This procedure is relevant to vehicle sales, gifts, inheritances, and family transfers. Below is a detailed examination of each crucial step involved:

1. Seller’s Financial Record Clearance

• Importance: Clearing the seller’s financial records with government and financial entities is essential before transferring ownership.

• Requirements: Obtain clearance from the Main Courts in Malé, Magistrate Courts throughout the Maldives, Maldives Inland Revenue Authority (MIRA), Bank of Maldives, Maldives Islamic Bank, and the Employment Tribunal.

• Hushihei’s Assistance: We assist in organizing and obtaining these clearances on your behalf, streamlining the initial process.

2. Roadworthiness Certificate

• Purpose: This certificate confirms the vehicle complies with legal safety standards.

• Requirements: A valid roadworthiness certificate or inspection report.

• Hushihei’s Assistance: We guide you through the requirements and help ensure your vehicle’s roadworthiness certification is up to date.

3. Settlement of Fees and Fines

• Why it Matters: All pending fees, fines, or traffic violations must be settled before applying for the transfer.

• Requirements: Clearance documents, sale agreement, National ID copies, and the original registration certificate.

• Hushihei’s Assistance: We calculate any outstanding fees and assist you in ensuring all payments are made promptly.

4. Identification Requirements

• Why it’s Necessary: Both buyer and seller must provide valid, undamaged identification for verification.

• Requirements: National ID for Maldivians, passport and visa copy for foreigners, or company registration for business transactions.

• Hushihei’s Assistance: We review your identification documents to ensure they meet verification requirements and assist with any missing documentation.

5. Original Registration Document

• Requirement: The original registration document is crucial for ownership transfer. If lost, a digital registration from the SIMS portal wallet is equally valid and can be used instead.

• Hushihei’s Assistance: We help you access the SIMS portal and retrieve the digital registration if necessary, ensuring a seamless process.

6. Garage Letter for Larger Vehicles

• Purpose: Vehicles with more than two wheels may need proof of suitable parking space, as required by authorities.

• Requirements: A “no objection” letter from the garage owner, the garage owner’s ID, and proof of garage registration, if applicable.

• Hushihei’s Assistance: While we don’t arrange garages, we ensure you have the correct documentation from the garage owner to comply with local regulations.

7. Ownership Change Application Form

• Details: The form must be completed and signed by both buyer and seller, with the seller’s fingerprint. If the seller is absent, a video verification with MTA staff may be needed.

• Hushihei’s Assistance: We provide the application form and guide you through filling it out accurately, ensuring completeness.

8. Administrative Fees Payment

• Method: All fees must be paid via bank transfer.

• Hushihei’s Assistance: We assist in processing these payments and verifying they meet MTA’s requirements.

9. New Registration Certificate

• Final Step: Once MTA approves the ownership change, a new registration certificate is issued in the buyer’s name.

• Hushihei’s Assistance: We monitor the progress of your application to ensure you receive the new registration certificate.

Location-Specific Requirements

For vehicles other than two-wheelers, additional documents and approvals are required based on the location within the Maldives. Here’s a breakdown for Malé, Hulhumalé, Villingili, and other islands:

For Islands (excluding Malé and Hulhumalé)

• Required Permits: Obtain a permit from the respective island council for larger vehicles.

• Additional Documentation: A1 form with clearance from judicial and financial authorities, third-party insurance, and a valid roadworthiness certificate.

For Hulhumalé

• Required Permits: Obtain a permit from the Housing Development Corporation (HDC) for vehicles other than two-wheelers.

• Additional Documentation: Similar to island requirements, with emphasis on garage verification if applicable.

For Malé

• Required Permits: Approval from the Malé City Council, and documentation from the garage owner if needed.

• Additional Documentation: A1 form clearance, third-party insurance, garage verification, and agreement between garage owner and vehicle owner.

For Villingili

• Required Permits: Approval from Housing Ministry or Malé City Council.

• Additional Documentation: Similar to Malé requirements, ensuring garage documentation and roadworthiness.

How Hushihei Simplifies the Process

At Hushihei, our aim is to make the vehicle ownership change process straightforward and stress-free for you. Here’s how we assist:

1. Expert GuidanceWe offer clear guidance through each step, ensuring all requirements are properly completed.

2. Document PreparationWe help gather and prepare all necessary documents, including clearances, identification, and permits, saving you time and effort.

3. Fee and Payment ManagementWe assist you in calculating and managing payments, ensuring all fees are paid promptly.

4. Communication with AuthoritiesWe handle communication with MTA and other relevant authorities on your behalf, reducing delays and making the process efficient.

Contact Us for a Smooth, Hassle-Free Ownership Change

Hushihei is located in Daisymagu, Hithadhoo, Addu City, with an online presence to support clients across the Maldives. We manage the administrative details so you can complete the vehicle ownership change without stress. Reach out to us via phone, Viber, email, or our website for expert guidance.

Disclaimer

This guide is based on regulations set by the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation as of November 10, 2024. Requirements may change over time, so we recommend consulting Hushihei or checking for the latest information.

Let Hushihei simplify the vehicle ownership change process, allowing you to focus on enjoying your new vehicle or completing the transfer smoothly. Whether you’re in Malé, Hulhumalé, Villimalé, or another island, Hushihei is your dependable partner for a stress-free experience.