Maldives Visa Requirements 2026 — Free 30-Day Arrival for All Nationalities
| Key Facts 2026 | |
|---|---|
| Visa on arrival | FREE — all nationalities |
| Stay allowed | 30 days initial |
| Extendable to | 90 days (at Department of Immigration) |
| Passport validity | Minimum 1 month beyond stay |
| Photo requirement | Not required on arrival |
| Entry points | Velana International Airport (MLE) and sea entry |
| Official portal | immigration.gov.mv |
Overview of Maldives Entry Requirements 2026
The Maldives has one of the world's most welcoming visa policies: all nationalities receive a free 30-day visa on arrival with no advance application, no eVisa, no embassy visit and no fee of any kind. Simply arrive at Velana International Airport (MLE) in Malé with a valid passport, onward ticket and evidence of sufficient funds or prepaid resort booking. The stamp is placed in your passport at the immigration counter in minutes.
Documents Checklist for Maldives Entry 2026
- Valid passport — minimum 1 month validity beyond intended departure date
- Return or onward flight ticket
- Confirmed hotel, resort or liveaboard booking (or other accommodation)
- Sufficient funds — USD 100 per day per person (guideline)
- No visa application form, no photo, no advance registration
- Travel insurance (recommended)
- Entry/departure card (provided on aircraft)
Eligibility — All Nationalities Welcome
The Maldives is unique in that its visa-free on-arrival policy applies to every passport holder in the world, without exception. There are no nationality restrictions for the tourist visa on arrival. Diplomatic and official passport holders may have additional privileges. For stays longer than 30 days, an extension must be applied for at the Maldives Department of Immigration before the initial 30 days expire.
How to Enter the Maldives
No advance action is required. Book your resort or accommodation, purchase flights to Velana International Airport (MLE), and arrive. At immigration, present your passport, arrival card and accommodation confirmation. The officer stamps a 30-day visa at no charge. Inter-island transfers by speedboat or seaplane are arranged by resorts. The entire immigration process typically takes 5–15 minutes.