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:
- Diplomats
- 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