You don’t need to stress about getting a Maldives visa before you fly in. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, a dive trip, or a quick island escape, the Maldives keeps it simple — a free 30-day visa on arrival for all nationalities. Yep, no embassy visits, no pre-approvals. But there are a few things you need to know before you land at Velana International Airport.
Before finalizing your plans, explore Maldives Travel Guide 2025 for everything you need to know before booking.
Passport Validity & Return Ticket Rules for Maldives
Your passport needs to be valid for at least one month from the date you enter the Maldives. But here’s the catch — most airlines and travel advisories recommend having six months’ validity just to stay safe. It’s an easy check before your trip, so don’t risk being turned away at the gate.
You’ll also need a return or onward ticket, plus proof of accommodation — a hotel booking, resort confirmation, or even a guesthouse email works. Immigration officers might also ask if you have enough funds for your stay (around USD 100 per day is the usual rule of thumb).
No need to panic though — the process is friendly and straightforward. You’ll just get a stamp in your passport, and that’s your Maldives visa sorted for 30 days.
Related read: Where to Stay in the Maldives (Resorts, Guesthouses & More)
Online IMUGA Form – Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s the part many travelers forget: the IMUGA Traveller Declaration. It’s an online form that everyone — arriving or departing — must fill out within 96 hours of travel. It only takes a few minutes and saves you from delays at immigration.
Here’s how to do it:
Go to imuga.immigration.gov.mv.
Choose Traveller Declaration.
Fill in your details — flight number, passport info, and accommodation address.
Upload a passport-sized photo (a selfie works fine).
Submit and save the QR code you’ll get at the end.
You’ll need to show that QR code on arrival and again when you leave. Keep a screenshot handy — Wi-Fi at the airport can be spotty.
Pro tip: Use the same email for both inbound and outbound forms — it makes re-entry smoother if you’re island-hopping.
Extension of Tourist Visa in Maldives
Fallen in love with island life and want to stay longer? (Totally understandable.) You can apply for a 60-day extension of your Maldives visa before your initial 30 days expire.
Here’s what you’ll need:
A passport valid for the duration of your stay.
Proof of continued accommodation.
Proof of funds (same ~$100/day guideline).
Application through the Maldives Immigration Office in Malé.
Once approved, you’ll get a total stay of up to 90 days. Note that extensions are not guaranteed — officers decide based on your documents and reason for staying longer.
If you’re staying on a local island guesthouse rather than a resort, give yourself a few extra days to process the application, as you might need to visit the capital.
Maldives Entry Requirements for Popular Countries
Here’s what travelers from the most common visitor countries need to know:
🇺🇸 USA:
No pre-visa needed. Just the usual passport, return ticket, accommodation proof, and completed IMUGA form. Yellow fever certificate only if you’ve transited through a risk country.
🇬🇧 UK:
Same as above — free visa on arrival. Make sure your passport is valid for at least one month, though six months is recommended.
🇮🇳 India:
Indian citizens also enjoy a visa-on-arrival facility. Direct flights from multiple Indian cities make it super convenient. Carry printed hotel and return flight details — they’re often checked.
🇪🇺 EU Travelers:
Citizens from Schengen-area countries don’t need to apply in advance. Just ensure you fill in the IMUGA form and have travel insurance covering medical emergencies — it’s not mandatory, but smart to have.
🇦🇪 UAE:
Residents and citizens of the UAE can also obtain a free 30-day Maldives visa on arrival. There’s no prior application or fee. Just bring your passport (valid for at least one month), return or onward ticket, proof of stay, and a completed IMUGA form. Many UAE residents visit the Maldives for quick weekend getaways thanks to frequent direct flights from Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
If you’re arriving from or transiting through a yellow fever risk country, you’ll need proof of vaccination, per WHO guidelines.
Need help planning your trip? Check out Maldives Travel Guide 2025: What to Know Before Booking
Quick Tips Before You Go
Print your hotel confirmation. Immigration sometimes asks for it.
Avoid bringing alcohol. It’ll be confiscated at customs (and no, you can’t sneak it in duty-free).
Travel insurance isn’t required but highly recommended — emergency medical care can be pricey.
Be respectful. The Maldives is Muslim — dress modestly on local islands, and don’t drink alcohol outside resorts.
Wi-Fi isn’t everywhere. Buy a local SIM (Dhiraagu or Ooredoo) at the airport for easy access.
Wrapping Up
Getting your Maldives visa is honestly the easiest part of your trip. The system’s designed to welcome travelers — just bring the right documents and fill out the IMUGA form. Once you’re through, it’s all turquoise lagoons, coral reefs, and sunset views from your overwater villa.
So go ahead — pack light, plan smart, and get ready to step into paradise.
