✈️ Do You Need a Visa to Enter the Maldives?
Maldives Visa Guide: If you're planning a trip to paradise, here's the good news: most travelers don’t need to apply for a Maldives visa in advance. The Maldives grants a free 30-day tourist visa on arrival to citizens of all countries, provided basic entry requirements are met.
However, from April 15, 2025, due to a legal amendment (Immigration Act 1/2007 – 3rd Amendment), Israeli passport holders will no longer be granted entry to the Maldives.
✅ Basic Entry Requirements for Tourists (Updated 2025)
While no pre-approval is required, travelers must satisfy all of the following to receive immigration clearance:
- Valid Passport or Travel Document
- Must have at least 1 month validity.
- Passports with “extended validity” will not be accepted.
- Must include a Machine Readable Zone (MRZ).
- Confirmed Travel Itinerary
- Return flight or onward ticket.
- Confirmed hotel booking at a registered accommodation.
- Proof of sufficient funds or a sponsorship letter from Maldives Immigration.
- Entry Documents for Next Destination
- Make sure you meet the visa/passport requirements of your next country (if transiting onward).
- Traveller Declaration Form (IMUGA)
- Must be submitted within 96 hours before arrival.
- Form is free and done online.
- Submit via the IMUGA portal.
- Vaccination Certificate (If Required)
- Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required if you're coming from or transiting through an endemic country.
- Children under 1 year of age are exempt.
- Minors Require Their Own Passport
- Children cannot travel on a parent’s passport.
🚫 Entry Restrictions
- Israeli passport holders will be denied entry effective from April 15, 2025, regardless of purpose of travel.
- Having all required documents does not guarantee entry. Final determination is made by Immigration officers at the port of entry under Section 7 & 8 of the Maldives Immigration Act.
🕓 What About Transit Passengers?
- If you’re simply passing through the Maldives on your way to another country without clearing immigration, you're considered a transit traveler and the visa requirement does not apply.
📌 Final Tips for Smooth Entry
- Double-check that your passport isn’t nearing expiry (at least 1 month of validity).
- Book accommodation only at registered hotels, guest houses, or resorts.
- Take screenshots or print your IMUGA submission confirmation.
- Keep proof of return tickets and finances handy for inspection at arrival.
📖 For More Information:
Visit the official Maldives Immigration website:👉 https://www.immigration.gov.mv/tourist-visa/

