The Maldives, with its turquoise waters, coral reefs, and overwater bungalows, has become a sought-after travel destination for Indians seeking a vacation. The best part about traveling to the Maldives for Indians is that no visa is required for stays up to 90 days. Maldives offers visa on arrival for Indian citizens. The visa on arrival is valid for a month and can be extended up to 90 days. In this article, we will provide a detailed guide on Maldives visa requirements for Indian citizens.
Why is Maldives a popular travel destination for Indians?
Indian citizens do not need a pre-arrival visa to enter the Maldives for tourism purposes. However, certain conditions must be met, and travellers should be aware of the rules and regulations governing their visit.
You can also refer to the benefits and list of other countries that offer visa-on-arrival for Indian citizens.
Maldives visa requirements for Indian citizens
Indian citizens planning a visit to the Maldives can enjoy a hassle-free visa process. Here’s a quick guide on Maldives visa requirements for Indian citizens:
Visa on arrival
Indians can get a free visa on arrival for up to 90 days.
Passport validity
Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
Return/onward ticket
Present proof of onward or return travel from the Maldives.
Accommodation confirmation
Proof of hotel booking or accommodation details is required.
Sufficient funds
Show proof of sufficient funds for your stay.
Health declaration
Complete a health declaration form within 96 hours before arrival.
This simple and tourist-friendly policy makes the Maldives a top choice for Indian travellers seeking tropical getaways.
Note: Visa rules may change, so checking with official sources before traveling is recommended.
Different types of Maldives visa
There are different types of Maldives visa that Indian citizens can apply for:
1. Tourist visa
Tourist visa is granted for individuals intending to visit the Maldives for leisure, exploration, and recreational purposes. They are typically issued for a specified duration, allowing tourists to enjoy the picturesque landscapes and vibrant culture of the Maldives.
Documents required for tourist visa
Indian travellers applying for a tourist visa to the Maldives need to present a few essential documents upon arrival to receive the visa:
- A valid passport with at least six months of validity from the date of entry
- Passport-sized photograph with a white background
- Proof of confirmed accommodation, such as hotel booking details
- A return or onward ticket as evidence of planned departure from the Maldives
- Sufficient funds or proof of ability to cover expenses during the stay
- Completed health declaration form (usually within 96 hours prior to arrival)
Stay duration
Tourist visas for Indian citizens are generally issued for a period of 30 days, with an option to extend up to 90 days, provided that certain criteria are met.
2. Work visa
Work visa is designed for foreign nationals seeking employment opportunities within the Maldives. These visas are Issued based on a job offer from a Maldivian employer, and their duration often corresponds to the employment contract.
Documents required for work visa
Applicants for a work visa in the Maldives need to provide:
- A valid passport with a minimum of six months validity
- Passport-sized photograph with a white background
- A formal job offer letter or employment contract from a Maldivian employer
- Health screening and medical clearance certificates
- Police clearance certificate (depending on employer and position)
- Completed visa application form with relevant fees
- Proof of residence in the Maldives, arranged by the employer
- Travel declaration filled within 96 hours of travelling to Maldives.
Stay duration
The work visa duration aligns with the employment contract terms, often issued for a year or the contract length, with options for renewal.
3. Business visa
Business visa helps individuals engage in business-related activities such as meetings, conferences, and negotiations. They are usually granted for short-term stays and require documentation demonstrating the purpose of the business visit.
Documents required for business visa
Those seeking a business visa must submit:
- A valid passport with a minimum of six months of validity
- Invitation letter or official documentation from the hosting company or organization in the Maldives
- Passport-sized photograph with a white background
- Completed visa application form with necessary fees
- Evidence of accommodation arrangements for the duration of the stay
- Return or onward travel ticket for proof of departure
Stay duration
Business visas are generally short-term, valid for 30 days, with potential for renewal based on the business needs.
4. Dependent visa
The dependent visa is intended for family members of individuals holding a valid work or residence permit in the Maldives. It allows spouses, children, and other dependents to accompany the primary visa holder during their stay.
Documents required for dependent visa
To apply for a dependent visa, applicants need:
- A valid passport with a minimum of six months validity
- Passport-sized photograph with a white background
- Proof of relationship with the primary visa holder (e.g., marriage or birth certificate)
- Copy of the primary visa holder’s valid work or residence permit in the Maldives
- Completed dependent visa application form
- Evidence of financial support from the primary visa holder
Stay duration
Dependent visas are typically issued for the duration of the primary visa holder’s stay, allowing dependents to stay as long as the main visa remains valid.
5. Marriage visa
A marriage visa is issued to foreign nationals who are married to Maldivian citizens. It enables spouses of Maldivian citizens to reside in the country and often involves specific documentation related to the marital relationship.
Documents required for marriage visa
Applicants for a marriage visa should provide:
- A valid passport with a minimum of six months validity
- Legal marriage certificate and any additional proof of marital relationship
- Permit extension form (IM23)
- Proof of spouse’s Maldivian citizenship
- Health clearance certificate
- Completed marriage visa application form
Stay duration
Marriage visas are typically long-term, allowing the foreign spouse to reside in the Maldives.
Documents required for Maldives on arrival visa for Indians
If you are traveling to the Maldives for less than 90 days, there is no need to apply for a visa beforehand. However, to meet Maldives visa requirements for Indian citizens, you must carry certain documents with you to enter the Maldives. These documents include:
- A valid Indian passport with at least 6 months validity from the date of entry into the Maldives
- Confirmed return or onward ticket
- Sufficient funds to cover your stay in the Maldives
- Proof of accommodation booking
- Travel itinerary
- Travel insurance
