Maldives Visa Requirements: Everything You Need to Know for 2026
Planning a trip to the Maldives? Whether you’re dreaming of overwater villas, pristine beaches, or a romantic getaway, understanding Maldives visa requirements is essential to make your journey seamless. This guide covers everything from tourist visas and passport requirements to country-specific rules for 2025.
Do You Need a Visa for the Maldives?
The good news is, most travelers do not need a pre-arranged visa before arriving in the Maldives. Tourists from almost all countries are eligible for a Maldives visa on arrival, making it one of the easiest tropical destinations to visit.
However, the visa on arrival comes with certain conditions you must meet to avoid any issues at immigration.
Maldives Tourist Visa on Arrival
A Maldives tourist visa on arrival is valid for 30 days and can be extended for up to 90 days with approval from the Maldives Immigration Department. To qualify, you must meet the following requirements:
- A valid passport with at least 6 months validity from the date of arrival
- Proof of hotel booking or accommodation in the Maldives
- Proof of sufficient funds for the duration of your stay
- Return or onward flight ticket
Visitors should note that the visa is free of charge and is automatically granted at most entry points, including Velana International Airport in Malé.
Country-Specific Maldives Visa Requirements
Certain nationalities may have additional requirements or considerations. Here’s a breakdown for 2026:
- Maldives visa for Indians 2025: Indian citizens are eligible for a tourist visa on arrival, provided they have a valid passport, hotel booking, and return ticket.
- Maldives visa for UK citizens: UK passport holders also receive a 30-day visa on arrival. Similar documentation is required.
- Maldives visa free entry nationals list: Most nationalities enjoy visa-free entry via the tourist visa on arrival system, making the Maldives extremely traveler-friendly.
It’s always advisable to check the official Maldives Immigration website before traveling, as rules may change.
Maldives Visa Extension
If you plan to stay longer than the standard 30 days, you can apply for a Maldives visa extension. Extensions are granted in increments of up to 60 days, depending on your travel plan and purpose of stay.
- Tourist visa extension Maldives: Can be applied for online or at the Immigration office in Malé.
- Business visa requirements: If traveling for work or meetings, you may need a different visa type, which is not automatically granted on arrival.
Work and Business Visa Requirements
For travelers intending to work or conduct business in the Maldives, a Maldives work visa or business visa is required. Key requirements include:
- Sponsorship from a registered company or resort
- Valid passport and professional credentials
- Approval from the Maldives Ministry of Economic Development
Health and Passport Requirements
- Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of entry.
- Certain travelers may need to show proof of vaccination depending on ongoing global health advisories.
Ensuring your documents are in order helps prevent entry delays or visa denial.
Maldives Visa Cost and Fees for Tourists
The tourist visa on arrival is free of charge, making it highly convenient. However, extensions or business visas may incur additional fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need a visa to go to the Maldives for 7 days?
A: No, all travelers receive a 30-day tourist visa on arrival, regardless of the length of stay.
Q: Can I extend my Maldives tourist visa?
A: Yes, extensions are possible up to 90 days in total.
Q: What documents do I need for a Maldives visa?
A: Passport with 6 months validity, hotel booking confirmation, proof of funds, and return ticket.
Q: Is there a Maldives visa for Indians in 2026?
A: Yes, Indian citizens can obtain a 30-day visa on arrival with all standard documentation.
Final Tips for Travelers
- Keep all travel documents handy during your trip.
- Check Maldives visa requirements by country 2025 before departure.
- Make hotel reservations in advance to meet visa conditions.
- For extended stays or business travel, contact Maldives Immigration directly.
Start planning your Maldives adventure today and enjoy the tropical paradise without worrying about visa issues. With a simple Maldives visa on arrival, your dream vacation is closer than ever.