The Maldives runs one of the more relaxed entry systems in the region: there is no visa to apply for in advance. Every nationality receives a free 30-day tourist visa on arrival at Velana International Airport, stamped straight into your passport at the immigration desk — no fee, no embassy visit, no pre-approval.
That said, "no visa required" doesn't mean "no requirements." Immigration officers check the same handful of things for everyone:
- A passport with a Machine-Readable Zone and at least one month of validity remaining beyond your departure date (many airlines and guides recommend six months as a safer margin).
- A confirmed onward or return ticket out of the Maldives.
- A prepaid resort or hotel booking, or proof of sufficient funds for your stay.
- A completed IMUGA Traveller Declaration, submitted online within 96 hours of your flight.
Staying longer than 30 days
The on-arrival visa can be extended twice, in 30-day blocks, for a maximum total stay of 90 days. Extensions are handled by the Department of Immigration in Malé and generally need a local sponsor — in practice, your resort or guesthouse. It's not something to leave until the last few days of your existing visa.
Employment and business
A tourist visa does not permit paid or unpaid work of any kind. Business travellers attending a conference or meeting can use a separate 14-day Meeting Visa; anything beyond that needs a proper business or work visa arranged through a Maldivian sponsor.