Maldives visas
Whether you need a visa for the Maldives, and which one, depends on your nationality and the purpose of your trip: most visitors receive a free 30-day tourist visa on arrival, while working, joining family or residing long-term requires a specific visa applied for online. All routes are administered by Maldives Immigration, largely through its IMUGA and Xpat digital portals. This hub summarises the main routes; always confirm the current rules on the official Maldives Immigration website before you travel or apply.
Maldivian visa categories
Explore visa categories by the purpose of your trip.
- Visitor & short-stay visasShort stays in Maldives — tourism, visiting family or friends, business visits and transit, plus any visa-free or e-visa options.2 visas
- Work visasComing to Maldives to work — the employment and skilled-worker routes and the permits they require.1 visa
- Study visasStudying in Maldives — student visas and permits for accepted students.0 visas
- Family visasJoining or sponsoring a partner, child or other relative in Maldives.2 visas
- Business & investor visasInvesting, doing business or coming to Maldives as a highly skilled individual.1 visa
- Residence & citizenshipLiving in Maldives long term — residence routes and, where available, the path to citizenship.1 visa
Maldivian visa application at a glance
From start to finish in five simple steps.
- 01Choose the right visa
- 02Check eligibility & documents
- 03Apply online
- 04Provide biometrics
- 05Wait for a decision
Maldives — key facts
- Visa authority
- Maldives Immigration
- Application
- Online (in most cases)
- Biometrics
- Usually required
- Currency
- Maldivian rufiyaa (MVR)
- Time zone
- Maldives Time (UTC+5)
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.