Maldives

Whether you're planning to explore pristine coral reefs, conduct business in Malé's emerging financial sector, or pursue marine research opportunities, understanding Maldives' immigration framework is essential for seamless travel planning.

Streamlined Entry Process Overview

The Maldives maintains a visitor-friendly visa policy designed to welcome international travelers while maintaining security standards. Located strategically in the Indian Ocean, this archipelago nation offers multiple entry pathways for different travel purposes.

Key Traveler Categories

Our comprehensive guidance covers:

• Tourist visa-on-arrival procedures
• Business delegation requirements
• Extended stay documentation
• Transit passenger protocols

Professional Immigration Support

Navigating Maldivian immigration requirements requires precise understanding of current regulations and documentation standards. Our expert team transforms complex procedures into clear, actionable strategies tailored to your specific travel objectives and timeline requirements.

Most travelers can visit the Maldives without obtaining a visa in advance. The country operates a visa-on-arrival system for tourists, making it one of the most accessible destinations worldwide.

Visa-Free Access for Tourism

Citizens of all countries can enter the Maldives without a pre-arranged visa for tourism purposes. You'll receive a 30-day tourist visa upon arrival at Malé International Airport, which can be extended for up to 90 days total.

Entry Requirements

To qualify for visa-on-arrival, you must present:

• Valid passport with minimum 6 months validity from arrival date
• Confirmed accommodation booking or invitation letter
• Return or onward flight ticket
• Proof of sufficient funds (minimum $50-150 per day depending on accommodation type)

Transit and Airport Rules

Transit passengers staying under 24 hours without leaving the airport don't need a visa. For longer layovers or if you wish to explore Malé, the standard tourist visa applies.

Special Considerations

Business travelers can use the tourist visa for meetings and conferences. Work permits require separate applications through Maldivian employers.

Children must have individual passports - they cannot travel on parent's passport.

Important Restrictions

The Maldives prohibits entry with Israeli passport stamps. Visitors should ensure compliance with local laws, including alcohol restrictions outside resorts.

Verification

Always confirm current requirements through the official Maldives Immigration website or your nearest Maldivian embassy before travel, as regulations can change.

The Maldives immigration system offers streamlined visa categories designed to accommodate various travel purposes, from leisure tourism to business ventures and extended stays.

Tourist and Visitor Visas

Tourist Visa on Arrival remains the most popular option, granted free for 30 days to most nationalities upon arrival. This visa covers leisure travel, family visits, and short-term stays. Extended Tourist Visas can be obtained for stays up to 90 days through pre-application or extension processes.

Business Visa Categories

Business Entry Permits cater to commercial activities including:

• Investment consultations and property acquisitions
• Corporate meetings and conference attendance
• Market research and business development
• Trade negotiations and partnership discussions

Business visas typically require sponsor letters and proof of commercial purpose, with processing times of 5-10 working days.

Employment and Work Permits

Work Visas are mandatory for all employment activities, linked directly to approved work permits. Categories include resort staff positions, construction workers, healthcare professionals, and executive roles. These require employer sponsorship and ministry approvals.

Transit and Multiple-Entry Options

Transit Visas accommodate passengers with layovers exceeding 24 hours, while Multiple-Entry Visas benefit frequent travelers conducting ongoing business or maintaining family connections.

Special Categories

The system includes Diplomatic Visas for official representatives, Student Permits for educational programs, and Family Reunion Visas for relatives of residents. Each category maintains specific documentation requirements and validity periods ranging from 30 days to one year, with extension possibilities subject to immigration approval.

Visa-Free Entry and Processing Times

Most travelers receive a free 30-day tourist visa on arrival at Velana International Airport with instant processing. Extensions up to 90 days total stay are available for $50 USD through Immigration offices in Malé.

Entry Requirements and Documentation

• Valid passport with 6+ months validity
• Confirmed onward/return ticket
• Hotel booking confirmation or invitation letter
• Proof of sufficient funds ($50-150 USD per day)
• Completed arrival/departure card

Work and Business Permits

Work permits require employer sponsorship with 30-60 day processing times through the Ministry of Economic Development. Business visas allow 30-day stays with possible extensions. Investment visas are available for qualifying business ventures exceeding $250,000 USD.

Application Locations and Contacts

• Tourist visas: On arrival at airport (no advance application needed)
• Work permits: Apply through sponsoring employer in Maldives
• Extensions: Department of Immigration, Malé (+960 330-1747)
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs: info@foreign.gov.mv

Peak Season Considerations

Airport processing remains efficient year-round, though December-April peak season may see longer immigration queues. Extension applications process faster during May-November off-peak months. All fees payable in USD cash or major credit cards at designated counters.

Step 1: Determine Your Visa Requirements

Identify the appropriate visa category based on your travel purpose and nationality. Most visitors receive a 30-day tourist visa on arrival, while longer stays or specific purposes may require advance applications through Maldivian diplomatic missions.

Step 2: Prepare Required Documentation

Gather essential documents including:

• Passport valid for at least 6 months from entry date
• Confirmed return flight tickets
• Hotel reservations or accommodation proof
• Bank statements demonstrating financial capacity ($100-150 per day)

Step 3: Complete Application Procedures

For visa on arrival: Complete immigration forms during flight or at Malé Airport. For advance visas: Submit applications at Maldivian embassies or through authorized agents with completed forms and supporting documents.

Step 4: Submit Application and Pay Fees

Tourist visas on arrival are typically free for 30 days. Extended stay applications require fees ranging from $100-500 depending on duration and purpose. Payment methods include cash, credit cards, or bank transfers.

Step 5: Processing and Collection

On-arrival visas are processed immediately upon landing. Advance applications typically take 5-10 working days. Track status through diplomatic missions or authorized processing centers.

Common Application Tips

Ensure all documents are in English or officially translated. Avoid overstaying initial visa periods, as extensions require advance approval from Maldives Immigration. Keep digital and physical copies of all documentation throughout your stay.