Maldives visa on arrival: Everything you need to know

When planning your dream trip to the Maldives, one of the first questions travellers ask is: Do I need a visa? The good news is that the Maldives operates a visa on arrival system for almost all nationalities. This makes it one of the most tourist friendly destinations in the world. In this comprehensive guide, you will learn everything about the Maldives visa on arrival, entry requirements, fees, rules for different nationalities, and the latest immigration updates.

Whether you are an Indian traveler looking for Maldives visa on arrival for Indian citizens, a Pakistani traveller searching for Maldives visa for Pakistani tourists, or an American asking How much is Maldives visa on arrival?, this guide will cover all your questions in detail.

What is Maldives Visa on Arrival?

The Maldives visa on arrival is a type of tourist visa granted to travellers directly at Velana International Airport. You do not need to apply in advance or get pre approval from Maldivian authorities. Instead, immigration officers grant a 30 day tourist visa on arrival provided that you meet the entry requirements.

Unlike many countries with strict pre travel visa systems, the Maldives welcomes tourists from all over the globe under this simple process. This open approach has helped the Maldives become a top global destination for beach lovers, honeymooners, and adventure seekers.

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Maldives Visa on Arrival Requirements

Although the visa is granted on arrival, you must meet certain Maldives visa requirements to get immigration clearance. These requirements ensure that visitors have a safe and secure trip.

Valid Passport

Your passport or travel document must have a Machine Readable Zone (MRZ).
It should have at least one month of validity from the date of entry.
Extended validity passports are not accepted.

Travel Itinerary

You must show proof of your travel plans, including:

A confirmed return flight ticket.
A prepaid confirmed booking at a registered hotel, resort, or guesthouse.
Proof of financial means to support your stay (cash, credit card, or bank statement).

Alternatively, you can present a sponsorship visa approved by Maldives Immigration if you do not have hotel bookings.

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Onward Destination Requirements

If you are traveling onward to another country after the Maldives, you must meet that country’s visa and passport rules.

Traveller Declaration Form

Every foreign visitor must fill out the Traveller Declaration form before arrival.

It can be completed online via the IMUGA portal.
The form must be submitted before arrival.
Submission is free of charge and mandatory.

Health Requirements

If you are coming from a Yellow Fever endemic country, you must carry a valid vaccination certificate.
Children under 1 year of age are exempt from this requirement.

Length of Stay for Maldives Visa on Arrival

By default, the Maldives visa on arrival allows a 30 day stay. However, tourists can apply for an extension of up to 90 days if needed. The extension must be applied for at Maldives Immigration before the initial visa expires.

Who Can Get Maldives Visa on Arrival?

The Maldives follows one of the most open visa policies in the world. Almost all countries are eligible for visa on arrival, except for Israeli passport holders as of April 15, 2025, due to the 3rd Amendment to Immigration Act 1/2007.

Maldives Visa Free Countries

Technically, the Maldives does not maintain a list of visa free countries. Instead, almost everyone qualifies for Maldives visa on arrival, which acts as a universal policy. This means whether you are from Asia, Europe, Africa, or the Americas, you can travel without pre visa approval.

Maldives Visa on Arrival for Indian Citizens

Indian travelers form one of the largest groups visiting the Maldives every year. The Maldives visa on arrival for Indian citizens is absolutely free and requires no pre travel formalities. Indians only need:

A valid passport with 1 month validity.
A confirmed return ticket.
A hotel or guesthouse booking.

Indians can stay up to 90 days in total, provided they request an extension. This makes the Maldives a popular getaway for Indian honeymooners, families, and budget travelers.

Maldives Visa for Pakistani Citizens

The Maldives warmly welcomes Pakistani tourists. The Maldives visa for Pakistani nationals is also free and granted on arrival. Pakistanis must show:

Valid passport.
Confirmed hotel booking.
Completed Traveller Declaration.

Pakistani travellers typically enjoy a stay of 30 days with the possibility of an extension.

Maldives Visa for Bangladeshi Travellers

For Bangladeshi citizens, the Maldives visa for Bangladeshi tourists is equally simple. Upon arrival, Bangladeshis are given a 30 day tourist visa at no cost. This easy policy has made the Maldives a popular work and leisure destination for Bangladeshis.

Maldives Visa for US Citizens

American travelers do not need to worry about lengthy applications. The Maldives visa for US citizens is also issued on arrival. US citizens enjoy:

30 days free visa.
Option to extend up to 90 days.
Same requirements as other tourists.

This makes the Maldives a hassle free destination for US honeymooners, beach vacationers, and luxury travellers.

How Much is Maldives Visa on Arrival?

One of the most attractive aspects of the Maldives visa on arrival is that it is completely free. Unlike many countries that charge processing fees or stamping charges, the Maldives issues visas without cost. However, travelers must still budget for accommodations, return tickets, and personal expenses.

So, if you are wondering how much is Maldives visa on arrival?, the answer is zero, the visa itself is free.

Special Rules for Children and Minors

Children must have their own passports to enter the Maldives.
Minors cannot enter on a parent’s passport.
The visa on arrival applies equally to children, provided the entry requirements are met.

Transit Travellers in the Maldives

Some travelers use the Maldives as a layover destination en route to another country. In such cases:

If you remain in the airport and do not pass through immigration, you are considered a transit passenger.
If you clear immigration and enter the country, you will need a Maldives visa on arrival.

Immigration Clearance and Admissibility

Even if you have all documents, the final decision rests with immigration officers. According to the Maldives Immigration Act 2007, entry is granted at the port of arrival after officers determine admissibility.

Latest Updates

From April 15, 2025, Israeli passport holders are not allowed entry into the Maldives.
All tourists must continue submitting the Traveller Declaration online.
Immigration may tighten document checks during peak seasons due to high tourist volumes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to apply online for Maldives visa on arrival?

No, you do not need to apply online. However, you must fill out the Traveller Declaration via the IMUGA portal.

Can I extend my stay beyond 30 days?

Yes, you can extend your visa up to 90 days by applying at Maldives Immigration before your current visa expires.

Is Maldives visa on arrival free for all nationalities?

Yes, except Israeli passport holders after April 15, 2025.

Do children need a separate visa?

Yes, every child requires their own passport and will receive a visa on arrival.

Conclusion

The Maldives visa on arrival system is one of the simplest in the world, honouring the country’s commitment to tourism. Whether you are from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, the US, or nearly any other country, entering the Maldives is hassle free.

With free entry, minimal requirements, and the option to extend your stay, the Maldives has made itself a welcoming paradise for all types of travelers. Just ensure your documents are ready, your bookings are confirmed, and your Traveller Declaration is submitted and you are ready to enjoy one of the most beautiful destinations on Earth.