Planning a trip to the Maldives? This guide lays out every visa and entry requirement, from visa-on-arrival rules to health checks, so you can land on those white-sand beaches without a hitch.
Visa on Arrival Basics
All nationalities receive a free 30-day visa on arrival, as detailed on the Maldives Immigration official Tourist Visa page. To qualify, you must have:
– A valid passport with Machine Readable Zone (MRZ) and no manual extensions beyond the original expiry date, according to the ICAO Machine Readable Travel Documents specifications.
– At least six months of validity remaining on your passport, matching the U.S. Department of State’s passport validity requirements.
– A confirmed return or onward ticket, as advised by the UK’s Foreign Travel Advice for the Maldives.
– Proof of sufficient funds (typically US $100 + US $50 per day) or a hotel booking confirmation, per Australia’s Smartraveller entry requirements for the Maldives.
Passport Requirements
Manually extended passports or those lacking at least six months of validity will be refused at immigration.
Funds and Accommodation Proof
Immigration officers calculate funds per person, per day—even if you’re staying at a resort. Keep digital or printed bank statements or booking confirmations on hand.
Mandatory Traveller Declaration
Within 96 hours before departure, submit the Traveller Declaration form via the IMUGA portal. This free, electronic form gathers arrival details and health information.
Health Requirements
If you’ve visited a Yellow Fever risk country, you must show proof of vaccination upon arrival, following the World Health Organization’s Yellow Fever vaccination certificate guidelines. Children under one year are exempt.
Extending Your Stay Beyond 30 Days
You can extend your tourist visa up to 90 days total, in two increments of 30 days, by applying at the Immigration Headquarters in Malé or through a local immigration office. A nominal fee applies for each extension.
On Arrival Procedures
After landing, fill out an arrival card. Have both digital and physical copies of:
– Your Traveller Declaration confirmation
– Hotel reservations or charter bookings
– Return or onward ticket
Officers may inspect these documents before stamping your visa.
Exceptions and Special Cases
- Israeli passport holders will be denied entry from April 15, 2025, according to a Reuters report on entry restrictions for Israeli nationals.
- Passengers not staying at registered tourist facilities can apply for a pre-approved sponsorship visa through a local sponsor (hotel, guesthouse, or dive operator).
Onward Destination Requirements
Even if the Maldives accepts your passport, your next stop might not. Verify visa and passport rules for onward destinations via IATA’s Timatic database for international travel requirements before you leave home.
Smooth Sailing Ahead
Armed with your IMUGA declaration, a valid passport, proof of funds, and health certificates, you’re set for a seamless entry. Once you pass immigration, those turquoise lagoons and coral reefs are waiting. Pack your bags, cross-check this checklist, and get ready for an unforgettable Maldivian escape.