maldives tourist visa

• Maldives Visa

Tourist Visa

Tourist visa is granted for all nationalities on arrival to the Maldives. As such, a foreigner travelling to Maldives as a tourist does not require pre-approval for the visa. However, the person must satisfy the basic entry requirements to get immigration clearance upon arrival.

The basic entry requirements are as follows;

• A passport or a travel document with Machine Readable Zone (MRZ) with at least 1 month validity.  (Passengers with an extended validity in their passports are not allowed to enter.)
• A complete travel itinerary including return journey confirmed tickets, with a prepaid confirmed hotel booking at a registered hotel, or provide proof of financial means for sufficient funds to support the stay in Maldives, or hold a pre-approved visa sponsorship Maldives Immigration.
• Entry requirements to their onward destinations; for example, the visa and passport validity.
• Traveller Declaration  must be filled in and submitted by all travelers travelling to and from Maldives, within 96 hours to the flight time. The form has to be submitted electronically via  IMUGA.  
• Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate, if applicable. Children under 1 year of age are exempt from Yellow Fever vaccination.  Click here  to check the Yellow Fever endemic countries.

Children / minors must have their own passport to enter the Maldives.

Transit travellers are defined as those travelling to another country via Maldives, without clearing Maldives arrival immigration.

A complete travel itinerary (return journey confirmed tickets, prepaid confirmed hotel booking at a registered hotel, if not provide proof of financial means for sufficient funds to support the stay in Maldives) does not guarantee entry to Maldives. Entry will be granted at the port of entry after the determination of admissibility by Immigration officers, as in accordance with Section 7 and 8 of The Maldives Immigration Act 2007.

Last update: December 21, 2022 Source: Maldives Immigration

Meeting Visa

Effective from 14 th  May 2023, an on-arrival 14 (fourteen) days short-stay visa ‘Meeting Visa’ will be granted for any foreign national visiting the Maldives for the purpose of attending a meeting, conference or convention held in the Maldives provided that the individual satisfies the entry requirements to the Maldives.

The following are the prerequisites for entry;

• The primary purpose of the visit is to attend or participate in a meeting, conference or convention held in the Maldives for permissible businesses accepted by the Registrar of Businesses, or to participate in a meeting held in the Maldives for government and state use, or to participate in a meeting or a conference or a convention arranged by other entities with approval from the concerned government authority;
• A complete travel itinerary including return journey confirmed tickets, with a prepaid confirmed hotel booking at a registered hotel and provide proof of financial means for sufficient funds to support the stay in Maldives;
• Traveller Declaration   filled in and submitted electronically via  IMUGA  within 96 hours to the flight time to Maldives;
• A passport or a travel document with Machine Readable Zone (MRZ) with at least 1 month validity.  (Passengers with an extended validity in their passports are not allowed to enter.);
• Entry requirements to their onward destinations; for example, the visa and passport validity;

Important Note:

Meeting Visa is a non-extendable visa.

Meeting Visa holder is not eligible to obtain a Business Visa while in the Maldives.

Entry to the Maldives is not guaranteed even with a comprehensive travel plan (confirmed tickets for the return trip, prepaid confirmed accommodation reservations at registered hotels, or proof of sufficient financial resources). According to Sections 7 and 8 of The Maldives Immigration Act 2007, entrance will be permitted at the port of entry following an immigration officer’s determination of eligibility. Source: Maldives Immigration

Work Visa is the permit issued for a foreigner to stay in Maldives for the purpose of employment.

A person traveling to the Maldives for the purpose of employment will be granted 15 days from the date of arrival. In order to acquire this pre period, the foreign national should possess a valid Work Permit issued by the  Ministry of Economic Development , which does not exceed 90 days from date of issue. Moreover, the foreign national should provide the same passport on arrival for which the Work Permit was issued. Re-entry on Work Permit without obtaining a visa is possible unless the Work Permit remains valid (within 90 days from date of issue).

Work Visa process include a medical check-up which needs to be completed from a permitted hospital/clinic, and health insurance should cover within this period to apply for work visa.

The consequences for not obtaining visa within the mentioned period results in penalization under the  Immigration Act 1/2007 , which include deportation from Maldives for overstaying.

The issuance of Work Visa service is decentralized and is provided from Male’ (Visa Division, Star Cloud, 8th Floor, Majeedhee Magu), Hithadhoo Immigration Office (Addu City), Fuvahmulah Immigration Office (Fuvahmulah City) and Kulhudhuffushi Immigration Office (H. Dh. Kulhudhuffushi).

Entry Requirements for Work Visa

• A machine readable (MRZ) Passport Bio-data page copy of the applicant (At least 1 Year validity).
• A valid Work Permit not exceeding 90 days from date of arrival.
• Traveler should provide the same passport mention in the Work Permit.
• Traveler Health Declaration , submitted within 48 hours prior to departure from the first port of embarkation. You may submit the form electronically via  IMUGA.
• Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate,  if applicable .

Applying for Work Visa

The following documents are required to apply for Work Visa and the employer or a representative of the employer shall submit the application for visa.

• Passport of the employee
• Copy of the Work Permit
• Passport size photo (Photo shall comply with Maldives Immigration passport  photo standard  and must be a recent photo)
• Medical health screening report of the employee issued from a Hospital/Clinic authorized by the relevant government authority
• Work Visa Application Submission Receipt (IM29)

Maldives Immigration introduced online Work Visa service on 17 th  November 2019. Hence, the employers and recruitment agencies shall apply for the service through  Xpat Online System .

With this enhancement, visa will be processed within 48 hours of submission. When the application is processed, applicants can request for an online appointment to submit the passport(s) for visa. Visa process will take 3 working days and the applicant will be notified when the passport is ready for collection. An online appointment shall be fixed once again for passport(s) collection.

Instructional video:  https://bit.ly/3gNrLah

• Expatriate should be registered under the “Expatriate Medical Insurance” issued from Allied Insurance Company, before applying for visa.
• Work Visa fee should be paid for a minimum of 3 months from the date of submission of the application.
• The existing Employees while returning to Maldives after been abroad must make sure their visa is valid or at least the Work Permit should remain valid.

Marriage Visa

Marriage Visa is the permit to remain in the Maldives granted to a foreign national who is married to a Maldivian national.

A foreigner travelling to Maldives to marry with a Maldivian, or a foreigner who is married to a Maldivian and travels to Maldives to register their marriage in Maldives, shall be sponsored prior to the arrival.  Sponsorship Declaration  has to submitted online via  IMUGA , the digital platform for immigration services.

After the arrival, the foreigner must complete the legal marriage process, and apply for Marriage Visa within the given period of 30 days. If the foreigner is already residing in the Maldives, visa transfer has to be made to Marriage Visa once the legal procedure of the marriage is completed.

Applying for Marriage Visa

The following documents are required to apply for Marriage Visa.

• Application for Permit Extension Form ( IM23 )
• Passport of the applicant
• Signature and seal from the Family Court in the application form
• Original and copy of Marriage Certificate
• Identity Card copy of the Maldivian national
• Passport size photo (Photo shall comply with Maldives Immigration passport photo standard and must be a recent photo)
• Visa card fee, MVR50
• Medical health screening report from a Hospital/Clinic authorized by the relevant government authority
• Health insurance, when applying for a new visa

Marriage Visa applications shall be submitted online via  IMUGA . When the application is processed, submitter will be notified via the Portal, and will be given an appointment to submit the passport for visa.

Marriage Visa is issued for 1 year, if it is a new application. However, Marriage Visa extensions are issued to 5 years.

Last update: February 21, 2023 Source: Maldives Immigration

Dependent Visa

The following documents are required to apply for Dependent Visa.

• Application for Permit Extension From ( IM23 )
• A passport or Travel Document with Machine Readable Zone (MRZ) with at least 6 months validity
• Dependent Visa card fee, MVR50
• Dependent Visa fee, MVR750 for each 3 months
• Employment Approval copy or Visa Card copy of the foreigner holding the Work Visa
• Proof of the dependent status (marriage certificate or birth certificate)
• Letter from the respective embassy explaining the living situation, if it is the mother or the father of the employment visa holder
• Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate, if applicable

Dependent Visa applications shall be submitted via  IMUGA . Source: Maldives Immigration

Business Visa

Business Visa is a temporary multiple-entry visa issued to a foreign national intending to stay in the Maldives for business purposes.

In accordance with the new  Business Visa Regulation  published on 25th August 2021, applications for the Business Visa has to be submitted to the Ministry of Economic Development via Ministry’s  Business Portal . Source: Maldives Immigration

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How do I get a visa for the Maldives?

Feb 9, 2024 • 3 min read

Don't let some admin hold you back from the vacation of a lifetime in the Maldives © skynesher / Getty Images

With its gleaming turquoise lagoons, bamboo-thatched overwater bungalows and sugar-white sands, the Maldives is one of the world’s most desirable beach destinations.

Every year, almost two million travelers touch down at Velana International Airport for the tropical trip of a lifetime. The last thing you want is to miss out on a vacation in paradise because you forgot to check visa requirements and, luckily, we're here to help.

Fortunately, the visa process is surprisingly easy. Whether you’re sticking to the local islands or zipping off to a private hideaway, here’s everything you need to know about visa requirements for the Maldives.

How to get a visa on arrival

Travelers from every country in the world can get a free 30-day tourist visa stamped into their passport when they arrive in the Maldives. Sounds too good to be true, right? Well, tourism is the largest sector of the Maldives' economy, so the government has tried to make it as easy as possible for vacationers to access these pristine islands.

To get your visa on arrival, you just need a follow a few key guidelines. Your passport must be machine-readable and valid for at least one month past your departure date, and you must show evidence of your return flight and hotel booking confirmation – the airline and immigration may ask for this information.

Official regulations state that you should be able to show proof that you have the funds to support your stay in the Maldives, but this is rarely requested from travelers with resort bookings. Be prepared that immigration officials may ask for evidence of cash or a bank statement – around US$100 per day of your stay should be sufficient. Any travelers arriving from countries where yellow fever is endemic must show a vaccination certificate upon arrival.

Every traveler needs to  complete an Imuga form 96 hours before both their arrival and departure flights. The digital form is free and requests basic information like a photo of your passport, flight number, duration of stay, where you’re staying and where you’re heading after the Maldives. Upon completion you'll get a QR code that you can store on your smartphone – it will be scanned by immigration at the airport.

What if I want to extend my visa?

Having too much fun in paradise? We don’t blame you. If you want to extend your 30-day tourist visa for an extra 60 days, giving you a total of 90 days in the Maldives, just talk to your resort or guesthouse. They will work with immigration on your behalf to arrange your visa extension.

The resort will let you know the documents you’ll need to renew your visa, including a full page in your passport, a recent passport-size photo, and confirmation of your stay and onward flight. The fee for extending your visa is Rf750. It’s recommended to start this process at least 10 days before your visa expires, but remember requirements are always subject to change.

Can I get a working holiday visa?

The Maldives does not offer working holiday visas. But if working on a small tropical island or aboard a boat in the Maldives sounds appealing, working visas are available if you can secure a job at one of the 180+ resorts or hotels. An approved Work Permit issued by the Ministry of Economic Development is required before applying for a Work Visa. From there, workers must meet requirements like having a passport valid for one year, a passport-sized photo, a medical health report, and all other necessary documents. Your employer will be able to guide you through the process.

This article was first published Oct 18, 2021 and updated Feb 9, 2024.

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Travel Advisory July 11, 2024

Maldives - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

Exercise increased caution in Maldives due to terrorism .

Country Summary:  Terrorist groups may conduct attacks with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities. Attacks may occur on remote islands which could lengthen the response time of authorities.  

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Maldives.

If you decide to travel to Maldives:

• Read the U.S. Embassy's web page . 
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Stay alert in locations frequented by tourists.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the Country Security Report for Maldives.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist

Embassy Messages

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Quick Facts

Must be valid Must be valid for six months from expected date of departure from Maldives.

One page required for entry stamp

Visitor visa available at the airport for stays up to 30 days

Required for entry if arriving from or transmitting through a yellow fever endemic country (see below)

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy colombo.

210 Galle Road, Colombo 03, Sri Lanka Telephone: +(94) (11) 202-8500 Fax: +(94) (11) 202-8590 [email protected] U.S. Embassy Maldives

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Maldives for information on U.S.-Maldives relations.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

A valid passport, along with an onward/return ticket and sufficient funds, is required for entry. A no-cost visitor visa valid for 30 days is issued upon arrival. A Traveler Health Declaration (THD) must be filled in and submitted by all travelers travelling to and from Maldives, within 96 hours prior to their travel. You may submit the form electronically .

The  Department of Immigration and Emigration  routinely approves requests for extension of stays up to 90 days for travelers who present evidence of sufficient funds and who stay in a resort/hotel or present a letter from a local sponsor. Anyone staying more than 60 days without proper authorization faces heavy fines and deportation.

Yellow fever vaccine is required for individuals above nine months of age who are traveling to Sri Lanka from a country designated by the World Health Organization (WHO) to have a risk of yellow fever transmission, including transit wait time of more than 12 hours in an airport located in such a country. For more information, please refer to WHO .

Visit the Republic of Maldives, Department of Immigration and Emigration for the most current visa information.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Maldives.

Find Information on  dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction and  customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism: Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

For more information, see our Terrorism page.

Crime: Maldives has a low crime rate and crime on resort islands is rare. Valuables may be stolen when left unattended on beaches or in hotels. The penalty for drug use or possession is severe.

Demonstrations  may take place in response to political or economic issues, but primarily take place in Malé or other larger cities and are unlikely to be noticed by tourists.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable, avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. 
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

  International Financial Scams:  See the Department of State and FBI pages for information.

Technology Usage Abroad: Mobiles devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and physical damage anywhere in the world. Best practices prior to traveling abroad are keeping all software (operating system and apps) updated, and use virtual private network and encrypted voice over IP (VoIP) applications if possible. Make sure that all VPN/VoIP are reputable, and U.S. based. Do not connect to unknown open Wi-Fi.

GPS Navigation Apps are helpful in getting U.S. citizens around in a foreign country. Prior to using the GPS app make sure you research the route to make sure it is safe. GPS navigation apps may give you the shortest route without safety consideration.

Be cautious of using dating apps/online dating websites abroad as U.S. citizens can be targeted by scammers. Make sure to inform your friends and family of your whereabouts, meet at a well-known public location, and do not consume suspicious food or drinks. Avoid traveling alone to bars or nightclubs.

Victims of Crime: U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy in Colombo for assistance.

Report crimes to the local police at 119 and contact the U.S. Embassy in Colombo at +94-11-202-8500. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care ;
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police;
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent;
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion;
• Provide a list of local attorneys;
• Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S. ;
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution;
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home; and
• Replace a stolen or lost passport .

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism: The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur at all tourist facilities. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

When transiting Maldives, travelers should ensure their luggage does not contain prohibited or restricted items, which include weapons, ammunition, alcohol, pornography, and religious material offensive to Islam, among other items. In some places, it is illegal to take pictures of certain buildings.

Religious Laws : Public observance of any religion other than Islam is prohibited. Religious gatherings such as Bible study groups are prohibited; however, a family unit may practice its religion, including Bible readings, within its residence. It is against the law to invite or encourage Maldivian citizens to attend these gatherings. Offenders may face jail sentences, expulsion, and/or fines. Although Maldivian law prohibits importing “idols for religious worship,” tourists traveling to the resort islands are generally allowed to bring in items and texts used for personal religious observances.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

LGBTQI+ Travelers:   The law prohibits same-sex sexual conduct. Under the penal code, the punishment for conviction includes up to eight years’ imprisonment and 100 lashes. None of the legal provisions prohibiting discrimination covers discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity and the law does not recognize LGBTQI+ individuals, couples, and their families. See our  LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities: While in Maldives, individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation very different from what you find in the United States. The Maldivian constitution provides for the rights and freedom from discrimination of persons with disabilities, and parliament passed a Disability Act in 2010. The new law requires public places such as supermarkets and parks to have facilities that will enable access for people with disabilities. Despite the law, most public places do not yet have access for the disabled, and implementation of the law may take some time.

Travelers: If you find yourself in a life-threatening situation, you should call the police immediately and follow up with a call to the U.S. Embassy in Colombo (+94-11-202-8500). We can sometimes connect you with a non-governmental organization in the Maldives that may be able to provide assistance. 

If you are victimized overseas, you may be entitled to receive compensation for counseling and/or other services such as relocation back to the United States. For further information, visit the U.S. Department of Justice's Office on Violence Against Women .

Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime committed in the Maldives.

See our tips for  Women Travelers . 

For Ambulance services in the Maldives, dial 102.

Ambulance services are not present throughout the country or are unreliable in most areas except Malé/Hulhumalé. Available ambulances are not staffed with trained paramedics and often have little or no medical equipment. Some inter-island sea ambulance service is available via the Maldivian Navy but does not serve the entire country.

We highly recommend that all travelers review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Travelers’ Health webpage and general Traveler Advice for Maldives.

• Review all sub-sections including the Travel Health Notices, Vaccines and Medicines, Non-Vaccine-Preventable Diseases, Stay Healthy and Safe, Healthy Travel Packing List, and After Your Trip.
• Reasons for Travel (for example: Adventure Travel, Spring Break Travel)
• Travelers with Special Considerations (for example: Allergies, Long-Term Travelers and Expatriates)
• and General Tips (for example: Traveling with Medications, Travel Vaccines)

The Department of State, U.S. embassies and U.S. consulates do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

The Department of State strongly recommends supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Medical Facilities: There are three large hospitals in the Malé area: ADK Hospital, Tree Top Hospital, and the government-run IGMH. Medical facilities outside Malé are limited. Hospitals and doctors typically require payment “up front” prior to service or admission. The availability of medical supplies is uneven and many common medications used in the United States are not available in Maldives; therefore, travelers should always carry any prescription medications with them.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Recommended vaccines that are specific to this region include Japanese encephalitis and typhoid (and rabies pre-exposure prophylaxis only if exposure to bats is anticipated).

Pharmaceuticals : Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with little controls. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments. Please visit U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the Maldives Ministry of Health to ensure the medication is legal in Maldives.

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassy and Consulates.

Water Quality : You should use ONLY boiled or bottled water for drinking, making ice, and for beverages.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Traffic Safety, Road and Aviation Conditions: While in Maldives, you may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. The information below concerning Maldives is provided for general reference only and may vary by location or circumstance. 

Only a few of the islands are large enough to support automobiles. Maldives has good safety standards for land, sea and air travel. Roads in Malé and on the airport island are brick and generally well-maintained, though congested. Dirt roads on resort islands are well-kept by the resorts. Transportation in Malé is either by foot, by bus, or by readily-available taxis that charge a fixed fee for any single journey. Transportation between the airport and Malé is by vehicle or by a public ferry. Travel to nearby resort islands is usually by motorized water taxi and speedboat or seaplane. Trans Maldivian and Maldivian Air Taxi provide charter seaplane service to outlying islands during daylight hours. Maldivian, Manta Air, and Villa Air run fixed-wing domestic service to some of the atolls with land runways during night hours as well. Many resorts stop boat transfers between the airport and the resort island after sunset. Visitors to distant resorts arriving in the country at night can expect to stay overnight at a hotel in Malé or at the airport hotel and should confirm transfer arrangements in advance. 

See our  Road Safety  page for more information. Visit the website of the Official Travel Guide of Maldives and national authority responsible for road safety.

Aviation Safety Oversight:  As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Maldives, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Maldives’ Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the FAA's safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to the Republic of Maldives should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on X (formerly known as "Twitter") and Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

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Entry Visa for Maldives

The Maldives offers various visas depending on your purpose of visit. For leisure, you’ll likely use the 30-day tourist visa , which is granted upon arrival. Should you wish to work in the Maldives or join a spouse, there are specific visas such as the work visa and marriage visa that require additional documentation.

30 Day Tourist Visa

For tourists no prior visa is required to enter the Maldives and based on immigration requirements, entry permits will be granted on arrival.

However an entry permit does not permit visitors to take up employment, set up any business or conduct any professional activities (paid or unpaid) except with the consent of the government and in compliance with pertinent laws and regulations of the Maldives.

Entry Requirements to Maldives

To ensure your entry is as smooth as possible, you must meet the Maldives’ entry requirements:

• Passport : Valid for at least 6 months with a Machine Readable Zone (MRZ) or a valid international travel document issued by a sovereign state’s government
• Traveler Declaration : Complete this via the IMUGA portal pre-arrival.
• Return Ticket: A valid return air ticket and necessary visas to a destination where the passenger has permission to enter
• Sufficient Fund: A minimum of US$30.00 per person per day or confirmed hotel reservation for the intended period of stay in the Maldives
• Vaccination Certificate : For ease of travel during health emergencies such as COVID-19.

Remember to check for the most current requirements, as policies may change, especially regarding health and safety regulations.

For more details check out the Entry into Maldives section of the Maldives Department of Immigration and Emigration website

Financial Planning

While the Maldives offers a 30 day visa on arrival, proof of sufficient funds is sometimes necessary. The cost of stay can widely vary depending on your choice of a lavish resort or a modest hotel.

Daily Budget Table:

• Luxury Resort: $500 – $2000 per day
• Mid-Range Hotel: $100 – $500 per day
• Budget Accommodations: $50 – $100 per day

Carry documentation that demonstrates your financial means such as recent bank statements or a paid hotel booking.

Staying Healthy and Safe

If you’re arriving from a country at risk of yellow fever, you’ll need to show a yellow fever vaccination certificate. Additionally, it’s wise to have health insurance that covers you internationally, ensuring you’re protected against any unforeseen medical expenses.

Extending Your Stay

The visa you get on arrival usually has a validity of up to 30 days. If you wish to stay longer, you can apply for a visa extension for a certain period by providing the required documents before your current visa expires.

Those seeking employment should note that a valid work permit is necessary before a work visa application can be processed.

Study Visas & Work Visas

Details on study visas / Work Visa, other categories of permits into the Maldives including transit passengers and crew members can be obtained from the categories of permits section of the Maldives Department of Immigration and Emigration website.

Visa Exemptions

One or more of the above requirements may be waived for the following personnel:

• UN personnel
• Persons already approved for employment in the country
• Technical and other experts attached to the Maldives Government
• Personnel with confirmed bookings in a registered tourist accommodation in the country
• Personnel sponsored by a Maldivian spouse

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Traveller Declaration

The electronic Embarkation/Disembarkation card of the Maldives.

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Maldives Tourist Visa

Tourist visa is granted for all nationalities on arrival to the Maldives. As such, a foreigner travelling to Maldives as a tourist does not require pre-approval for the visa. However, the person must satisfy the basic entry requirements to get immigration clearance upon arrival.

The basic entry requirements are as follows;

A passport or a travel document with Machine Readable Zone (MRZ) with at least 1 month validity. (Passengers with an extended validity in their passports are not allowed to enter.)

A complete travel itinerary including return journey confirmed tickets, with a prepaid confirmed hotel booking at a registered hotel, and provide proof of financial means for sufficient funds to support the stay in Maldives, or hold a pre-approved visa sponsorship approved by Maldives Immigration.

Entry requirements to their onward destinations; for example, the visa and passport validity.

Traveller Declaration must be filled in and submitted by all travellers travelling to and from Maldives, within 96 hours to the flight time. The form has to be submitted electronically via IMUGA.  

Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate, if applicable. Children under 1 year of age are exempt from Yellow Fever vaccination. Click here to check the Yellow Fever endemic countries.

Children / minors must have their own passport to enter the Maldives.

Transit travellers are defined as those travelling to another country via Maldives, without clearing Maldives arrival immigration.

A complete travel itinerary (return journey confirmed tickets, prepaid confirmed hotel booking at a registered hotel, and provide proof of financial means for sufficient funds to support the stay in Maldives) does not guarantee entry to Maldives. Entry will be granted at the port of entry after the determination of admissibility by Immigration officers, as in accordance with Section 7 and 8 of The Maldives Immigration Act 2007.

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Entry requirements

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Maldives’ current rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Maldives set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Maldivian High Commission in the UK .

All travellers to Maldives must complete a Traveller Declaration Form (IMUGA) within 96 hours of arrival and departure.

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Maldives.

Passport validity requirements

Your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least one month after the date you arrive in Maldives. Make sure your passport is not damaged or you may be stopped by immigration. 

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

You will get a 30-day visa on arrival if you enter Maldives as a tourist.

If you intend to work in Maldives, you must get a work visa before you travel .

For further information on entry requirements and visas, contact the Maldives immigration department .

Vaccine requirements

To enter Maldives, you must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a yellow fever vaccination if you’re coming from a country listed as a transmission risk .

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Maldives guide .

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Maldives . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.  

It is illegal to bring in anything deemed contrary to Islam, including ‘idols for worship’, bibles, pork and pork products, and alcohol.

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Tourist Visa

A tourist visa is granted for all nationalities on arrival to the Maldives. As such, a foreigner travelling to the Maldives as a tourist does not require pre-approval for the visa. However, the person must satisfy the basic entry requirements to get immigration clearance upon arrival.

The basic entry requirements are as follows;

• A passport or a travel document with Machine Readable Zone (MRZ) with at least 1 month’s validity (Passengers with an extended validity in their passports are not allowed to enter).
• A complete travel itinerary including return journey confirmed tickets, with a prepaid confirmed hotel booking at a registered hotel, or provide proof of financial means for sufficient funds to support the stay in Maldives, or hold a pre-approved visa sponsorship Maldives Immigration.
• Entry requirements to their onward destinations; for example, the visa and passport validity.
• Traveller Declaration must be filled in and submitted by all travellers travelling to and from the  Maldives, within 96 hours of the flight time. The form has to be submitted electronically via IMUGA.
• Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate, if applicable.  Click here  to check the Yellow Fever endemic countries.

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Children/minors must have their own passports to enter the Maldives.

Transit travellers are defined as those travelling to another country via Maldives, without clearing Maldives arrival immigration.

A complete travel itinerary (return journey confirmed tickets, prepaid confirmed hotel booking at a registered hotel, if not provide proof of financial means for sufficient funds to support the stay in Maldives) does not guarantee entry to Maldives. Entry will be granted at the port of entry after the determination of admissibility by Immigration officers, as in accordance with Section 7 and 8 of The Maldives Immigration Act 2007.

Renewal of Tourist Visa

You can extend your 30-day on-arrival visa for an additional 60 days by applying directly to the Department of Immigration and Emigration before the expiration of your on-arrival visa. For more information, please visit the Maldives Immigration website .

Source: https://immigration.gov.mv/tourist-visa/

Please Note:

The Maldives High Commission in Malaysia cannot issue any visas under any circumstances.

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Visit Maldives

Maldives tourist visa, you do not need to apply for a visa before you travel to the maldives on holiday..

All tourists, of all nationalities, can receive a 30 day visa free of charge on arrival in the Maldives.

To receive a tourist visa on arrival at Malé International Airport, you will need:

Should posses a valid passport with Machine Readable Zone (MRZ)  -(standard ICAO Annex 9, chapter 3.10.1) and should have at least 1 month validity

A return flight ticket, or a flight ticket to another destination, for departure within 30 days of arrival;

Either confirmation of a hotel/resort booking, or evidence of sufficient funds to cover your expenses in Maldives (at least US$100 + US$50 per day demonstrated by cash or bank statement).

Please Note:

You must not undertake any work paid or unpaid or any business engagements while in the Maldives on a tourist visa. Visitors found to be employed, or found to have overstayed their visa, may be deported or fined .

Disclaimer: The issuance of tourist visas ultimately lies at the discretion of the Immigration officer. As a tourist, you do not have a right to claim a 30 day visa, and the information above should be seen as guidance.

Renewal of Tourist Visa

You can extend your 30 day on-arrival visa for an additional 60 days by applying directly to the Department of Immigration and Emigration before the expiration of your on-arrival visa. For more information, please visit Maldives Immigration website .

Other Types of Visa for the Maldives

Further information on entry requirements, other types of visas, and tourist visa extensions is available on the website of the Maldives Immigration .

The Maldives Embassy in London cannot issue any visas under any circumstances.

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Maldives Tourist Visa – Application, Validity and Fees

Do you want to visit the Maldives? If yes, then you should plan ahead. There are plenty of tourist attractions in the Maldives, from beaches to islands. Some of them are even UNESCO World Heritage Sites. However, you will need a Maldives Tourist Visa on arrival.

The Maldives is a paradise for travelers who want to enjoy their holidays. Most importantly, you don’t have to worry about visas. The Maldives government offers entry visas on arrival to visitors from every country.

This article will discuss the application procedure, validity period, and fees for obtaining a Maldives Tourist visa.

Maldives Tourist Visa

Every foreigner traveling to the Maldives does have to go through the stress of visiting an embassy. They can get the Maldives Tourist Visa on arrival at a Maldives international airport. However, you must have all the documents you need for an entry permit into the country.

Eligibility for Maldives Tourist Visa on arrival

Applicants for a visa on arrival in the Maldives must meet the following conditions. They include:

• You must prove that you will not be working in the Maldives.
• You must show that you will return to your country after 30 days.
• You must have enough money for your stay in the country
• You must show proof of pre-paid hotel reservation in the Maldives.

Requirements for Maldives Tourist Visa

Generally, the visa policy in the Maldives is lenient, especially for tourists who visit the country for leisure and recreation. However, you must provide all the necessary documents you will need for the visa. They include:

• Proof of accommodation
• Proof of sufficient funds
• Flight itinerary
• Visa to a third country
• Traveler Declaration
• Proof of travel purpose
• Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate

#1. A passport

You must have a machine-readable passport. In addition, the travel document must be six months valid when you visit the Maldives. Plus, it must have a blank page for your visa stamp.

#2. Proof of accommodation

You will also need a pre-paid hotel reservation in the Maldives. It will serve as your proof of accommodation in the country.

#3. Proof of sufficient financial means

You must show evidence you have enough money for the time you’ll stay in the Maldives. You can use a bank statement or pay slip.

#4. Flight itinerary

You need a roundtrip ticket or an onward flight ticket to a third country. It will show your desire to return or leave the Maldives upon the expiration of your visa on arrival in the country.

#5. Visa to a third country

Foreigners who wish to visit another country from the Maldives must provide a valid visa to the destination country.

#6. Traveler declaration

All travelers visiting or leaving the Maldives must fill and submit the traveler’s declaration form 96 hours before their departure.

#7. Yellow fever vaccination certificate

Nationals of some countries must provide proof of vaccination for yellow fever. So, you must check if you are from a nation that requires  vaccination for Yellow fever .

Steps to apply for a Maldives Tourist Visa on arrival

Basically, you don’t have to go through the embassy to apply for a Maldives Tourist Visa. However, you can obtain your permit upon arrival at an international airport in the Maldives.

Still, you must follow some steps to obtain your visa without stress. Thus, you can follow the steps below to apply for a Maldives visa on arrival. They include:

Step 1. Contact the Maldivian embassy in your country of origin

The first step is to contact the Maldivian embassy in your country of residence or origin. They will give you all the information you need to apply for a visa on arrival, including the requirements and the best time to start the application process.

Step 2. Gather all the documents you need for your Maldives Tourist Visa on arrival

Secondly, once you know the documents and requirements for the entry permit, you will gather them before moving to the Maldives. You must be careful because if you miss any of them, you will not obtain a visa on arrival in the Maldives.

Step 3. Visit the Maldives with all the documents for a tourist visa on arrival

Thirdly, you can visit the Maldives with all the documents and requirements.

Step 4. Submit the documents to the immigration office once you arrive in the Maldives

Fourthly, once you arrive in the Maldives, you must look for the immigration officer on the ground and submit your documents for a visa on arrival. The officer will direct you on the next step[ to take.

Step 5. Wait for the immigration officer to approve your documents

Fifthly, you will wait for the immigration officer to validate your documents. It can take between 30 to 50 minutes. Thus, you must be patient with the authorities at the airport.

Step 6. Receive your Maldives Tourist Visa

Sixthly, once the officers complete the validation process, you will receive your visa from the authorities at the airport. It will allow you to stay in the Maldives for 30 days.

Tourist Attractions in the Maldives

The Maldives is known for its pristine white sand beaches, turquoise water, and lush vegetation. It also offers some exciting activities such as snorkeling and scuba diving. Here are some other things tourists love about the Maldives.

#1. Hulhumalé International Airport

Hulhumalé International airport is the only international airport in the Maldives. Thus, all foreigners moving into the Maldives must use the airport. Located in Malé, the capital city of the Maldives, the airport serves as the gateway to the country.

#2. Dhivehi National Museum

The Dhivehi National Museum is in Malé, the capital city of the Maldives. The museum contains various historical items, including weapons, clothing, and everyday objects. The artifacts served the people of the Maldives.

#3. Thulusdhoo Atoll Nature Reserve

Thulusdhoo Atoll nature reserve is a protected area of land in the Maldives. The atoll consists of three islands; Maamakunudhoo, Thulusdhoo, and Kuredu. The reserve covers an area of about 1,200 hectares (ha) and is home to many species of birds and marine animals.

#4. Addu Atoll Nature Reserve

Addu Atoll nature reserve is another protected area of land in the Maldives. The atolls consist of four islands; Addu City, Gaafaru, Fuvahmulah, and Lhaviyani. The reserve covers an area of 2,000 ha and is home to many bird species.

#5. Dhonveli Lagoon

Dhonveli lagoon is a lagoon in Male. Naturally, the lagoon provides water for the residents of Malé.

#6. Male City Center

The male city center is the central business district of Male. The city center has two parts: Central Business District and Old Town. It is a place you must visit while in the Maldives.

Also Read : Top 11 reasons to visit the Maldives: Culture, Art, and Experience

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the maldives tourist visa on arrival.

The duration of the Maldives visa on arrival is 30 days. However, nationals of countries with bilateral visa agreements with the Maldives can get additional days. The decision lies with the immigration officer. Thus, foreigners do not have to make an official claim for extra days to stay in the Maldives.

You must check your p[assport to know the number of days you can stay in the Maldives. It will help you to avoid overstaying in the country.

Of course, you will receive punishment for overstaying your visa in the Maldives. The Maldivian authorities will determine your penalty.

What can I do with a visa on arrival in the Maldives?

A Maldives visa on arrival only allows visitors to perform tourist activities in the country. In other words, it does not permit you to work, study or conduct business activities in the Maldives.

If you are in the Maldives for other reasons, including social visitors, friends, family visitors, or media and business visitors, you must look for a sponsor in the Maldives.

What is the fee for the Maldives visa on arrival?

You do not need to pay a visa fee as a tourist in the Maldives. However, if you apply for an extension, you will pay the sum of Rufiyaa 750.

What is the processing time for a Maldives Tourist Visa?

You can get your visa on arrival in the Maldives within 30 minutes once you have all your documents. However, depending on the number of applicants, it can extend to up to one hour.

Can I extend my Maldives visa on arrival?

You can extend your Maldives visa on arrival before it expires at the Maldives Immigration Office. Then, the officials will check your documents and validate them. If they are complete, you will get an extension of your tourist visa.

Usually, you cannot stay in the Maldives beyond 90 days. Therefore, you can receive an extension of 60 days. However, you have to pay a fee of Rufiyaa 750.

When is the best time to apply for a Maldives visa?

You can apply for a visa to visit the Maldives between one to two months from your travel date. It will allow the officials to process your visa. However, you can apply for a tourist visa on arrival at the airport.

In conclusion, you will not visit a Maldivian embassy to obtain a tourist visa. You can receive your permit once you arrive in the country. However, you must have all the documents we listed in the article. Otherwise, you will not get an entry visa to stay in the Maldives for tourism.

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