Understand the visa requirements and entry conditions that may apply when planning a trip to the Maldives.
Last updated on: April 09, 2026
Maldives is a popular island destination known for its beaches, resorts, and relaxed travel policies for tourists. To support short leisure visits, the country follows a simple entry system for international travellers.
If you are visiting Maldives for tourism, a tourist visa is issued on arrival, provided you meet the prescribed entry conditions. You do not need to apply for a visa in advance for tourism purposes.
The visa is granted at the airport after immigration authorities verify your passport validity, return travel plans, accommodation details, and other required documents. This on‑arrival process keeps travel formalities minimal for short stays.
The Maldives offers different visa categories based on your reason for travel. If you are visiting for leisure, the on‑arrival Maldives tourist visa applies to you. Other visa types support work, business, or long‑term stays.
Here are the details:
Issued on arrival for leisure travel. This is the most common visa for Indian travellers. It does not permit work or business activities.
Issued when a Maldivian individual or organisation sponsors your stay. The sponsor provides the required details and documentation.
Required if you take up employment in the Maldives. Your employer arranges the work permit and related visa formalities.
Granted if you are legally married to a Maldivian citizen and plan to live in the country.
Issued to immediate family members of individuals residing in the Maldives on a valid work or residence permit.
Applicable for short business visits such as meetings, conferences, or professional engagements. It does not allow employment.
Issued under specific long‑term residency categories, subject to defined eligibility conditions.
You must meet specific entry conditions to receive a Maldives tourist visa on arrival. These checks help confirm that your travel plans, documents, and stay arrangements are in order.
You need a passport or travel document with a Machine Readable Zone (MRZ) and at least one month of passport validity from the date of entry. Passports with extended validity endorsements are not accepted.
You must carry a return or onward ticket, along with a confirmed booking at a registered hotel or resort.
You should be able to show sufficient funds to support your stay if asked. This can include cash, bank statements, or cards.
You must meet the entry rules of your onward destination, including visa requirements.
You must complete the Traveller Declaration on the IMUGA portal, the official online portal of Maldives immigration, within 96 hours of travel.
You require this only if you are arriving from a Yellow‑Fever‑risk country. Children under one year are exempt.
Children travelling with you must have their own passport.
Receiving a Maldives tourist visa on arrival is easy. However, you must follow these steps to ensure smooth entry:
Ensure it has an MRZ and at least one month of validity.
Keep your return ticket and hotel confirmation ready for inspection.
Submit the form on the IMUGA portal within 96 hours before your flight.
Carry your passport, declaration, bookings, and proof of funds for immigration checks.
Show all required items at immigration, where your Maldives visa will be granted on arrival.
Immigration officers may ask questions about your stay or documents like valid passport etc. before granting entry.
You must carry specific documents to meet Maldives visa requirements at the time of arrival. These help immigration officers verify your identity, travel purpose, accommodation plans, and financial readiness for the trip:
| Document | Description |
|---|---|
Valid Passport |
Must have an MRZ and at least one month of validity. Passports with extended validity endorsements are not accepted. |
Return or Onward Ticket |
Shows your planned departure from the Maldives within the permitted stay period. |
Confirmed Hotel Booking |
Proof of accommodation at a registered hotel, resort, or guesthouse for your stay. |
Proof of Funds |
Evidence that you can support your trip. This may include bank statements, cards, or cash. |
Traveller Declaration (IMUGA) |
Must be completed online within 96 hours of your arrival. Keep a copy of the submission. |
Yellow Fever Certificate (If Required) |
Needed only if you are travelling from a Yellow‑Fever‑risk country. Children under one year are exempt. |
Valid Onward Destination Documents |
Required if you are travelling further after your stay, such as a visa or entry permit. |
Passport for Minors |
Children travelling with you must have their own passport. |
Note: Keep both digital and printed copies for convenience.
Your Maldives travel expenses can be easier to manage when you use the right financial tools. These options help you spread out costs and maintain flexibility during your holiday.
You can use a credit card to book flights, hotels, and activities. Many cards offer travel rewards, lounge access, or insurance benefits. Paying with a card also gives you secure transactions and expense tracking.
Some banks allow you to convert high‑value bookings into EMIs. This can help you manage trip costs without straining your budget.
If you prefer a single funding source for your holiday, a personal loan can help cover flights, accommodation, activities, and other expenses. Choose a repayment plan that suits your monthly budget.
Carrying an additional credit card or forex card ensures you have a safety net for urgent expenses.
You can explore several islands, beaches, and cultural spots during your trip. The Maldives offers scenic resorts, local islands, and underwater experiences that suit different travel styles.
The capital city gives you a glimpse of daily Maldivian life. You can visit local markets, historic mosques, and the waterfront area. It is also your main entry point before heading to the islands.
A popular local island known for budget‑friendly stays, water sports, and easy access to nearby snorkelling sites. It is a good option if you want an affordable yet scenic holiday.
A planned island close to the airport where you can enjoy beaches, cafés, and relaxed walking paths. It is convenient if you prefer staying near transportation hubs.
Famous for diving spots, coral reefs, and marine life. You may spot manta rays or whale sharks during guided excursions.
A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known for its rich biodiversity. It offers calm lagoons, luxury resorts, and beautiful sandbanks.
Located in the south, this atoll features peaceful beaches and cycling routes. It is ideal if you want a quiet, less crowded experience.
You do not pay any fee for a Maldives tourist visa issued on arrival. Immigration grants you entry after reviewing your documents and confirming you meet the conditions. Processing usually takes only a few minutes at the airport, but delays may occur during busy travel periods. Your stay duration is decided by the immigration officer based on your travel plans and supporting documents.
Note: While the visa itself is free, standard airport entry taxes or departure charges may apply through airline tickets.
A Maldives tourist visa is simple to obtain because it is granted to you on arrival. You only need to carry valid documents, complete the IMUGA declaration, and show clear travel plans. With proper preparation, your entry process becomes smooth and hassle‑free.
Reviewer
You can receive up to 30 days on arrival, depending on your travel plans and documents. Immigration officers decide the final duration at the airport.
No. You receive your visa on arrival if you meet the entry rules. There is no pre‑approval needed for tourism.
Yes. You must submit it online within 96 hours of your arrival or departure. Keep a copy of the submission for airport checks.
No fee is charged for the on‑arrival tourist visa. You only need to carry valid documents and meet the entry conditions.
No. Your passport must have at least one month of validity and an MRZ. Extended validity endorsements are not accepted.
Yes. Every child or minor travelling with you must have their own passport to enter the Maldives.
Extensions may be possible through the immigration office, subject to approval and availability. You must apply before your current stay expires.
No. It is required only if you are arriving from a Yellow‑Fever‑risk country. Children below one year do not require this vaccination.
You should update your accommodation details and submit a new Traveller Declaration before arrival.
You may use Indian currency at some establishments, but USD and Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR) are widely accepted. It is safer to carry USD or a card for most payments.
The IMUGA Digital Arrival Card is a mandatory online declaration where you submit your travel, health, and stay details. It is not a visa. Your Maldives tourist visa is issued separately on arrival after immigration reviews your documents.