Can I extend my tourist visa in Maldives?

Yes, extensions are possible, but you must apply to Maldives Immigration before your current visa expires. Extensions are not guaranteed and are subject to immigration approval.

Can I work in Maldives on a tourist visa?

No, a tourist visa does not permit employment or any form of paid work in Maldives. Engaging in such activities is a violation of immigration laws.

Do I need a visa if I am only transiting through Maldives?

If you remain in the transit area of the airport and do not pass through immigration, a visa is generally not required. However, if you need to enter the country for any reason, the tourist visa on arrival would apply.

Is there a fee for the 30-day tourist visa on arrival for Indian citizens?

No, the 30-day tourist visa on arrival for Indian citizens is granted free of charge.

What is the Traveler Declaration (IMUGA) and when should I complete it?

The Traveler Declaration (IMUGA) is an online health and immigration form that must be completed by all travelers within 96 hours prior to their arrival in and departure from Maldives.

InfoOnVisa

From IN To MV

Visa on arrival

Indian citizens can obtain a Visa on Arrival when travelling to Maldives for tourism.

Indian citizens traveling to Maldives for tourism purposes are eligible for a free 30-day Visa on Arrival (VOA). This visa is granted upon arrival at Velana International Airport, provided all necessary documents are presented and immigration requirements are met. It is essential to complete the Traveler Declaration (IMUGA) online within 96 hours of arrival and departure.

Last verified: 12 Jul 2026 Official source: Maldives Immigration - Tourist Visa

Visa types & details

Choose a visa category to see its details — all options for India → Maldives.

Tourist Visa (Visa on Arrival)

Validity

30 days

Max stay

30 days

Entries

Single entry

Processing time

Upon arrival (for Visa on Arrival)

Best for

For tourism purposes, available upon arrival at Velana International Airport for all nationalities, including Indian citizens.

Government fee: fees vary by visa type and nationality and change often. Check the official fee portal

Documents required for Indian citizens

Tick items as you collect them — 0 of 5 ready.

PassportMust be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into Maldives and have a Machine Readable Zone (MRZ).
Confirmed Onward/Return TicketProof of a confirmed ticket to depart Maldives to a country where the passenger has the right of entry.
Confirmed Accommodation BookingProof of a pre-paid hotel booking or other confirmed accommodation for the entire duration of stay.
Sufficient FundsProof of sufficient funds to cover expenses during the stay (approximately USD 100 per day), if not covered by a confirmed hotel booking.
Completed Traveler Declaration (IMUGA)Must be submitted online within 96 hours prior to arrival in and departure from Maldives.

How to apply for a Maldives visa from India

Follow these steps in order.

1

Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your intended date of entry into Maldives.
2

Book your accommodation and secure a confirmed onward or return flight ticket.
3

Complete the Traveler Declaration (IMUGA) online within 96 hours before your arrival in Maldives.
IMUGA Portal
4

Upon arrival at Velana International Airport, present your passport, confirmed tickets, accommodation details, and completed Traveler Declaration to the immigration officer.
5

Receive your 30-day Visa on Arrival stamp in your passport.

Common Maldives visa rejection reasons

Why India → Maldives applications get refused — and how to avoid it.

Insufficient passport validity.

How to avoid: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your intended date of entry into Maldives.
Lack of confirmed onward/return ticket.

How to avoid: Always have a confirmed ticket for your departure from Maldives to a country where you have the right of entry.
No confirmed accommodation booking or insufficient funds.

How to avoid: Secure a confirmed hotel booking for your entire stay or be prepared to show proof of sufficient funds (e.g., bank statement, credit card) to cover your expenses.
Incomplete or inconsistent Traveler Declaration (IMUGA).

How to avoid: Fill out the IMUGA form accurately and completely within the specified timeframe (96 hours before arrival/departure).
Previous immigration violations.

How to avoid: Ensure you have no prior records of overstaying a visa, deportation, or other immigration law violations in Maldives or other countries.

Trip essentials

Hand-picked tools for your Maldives trip.

Travel insurance

Cover for medical emergencies & delays.

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eSIM & data

Get online the moment you land.

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Flights

Compare routes to Maldives.

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Stays

Hotels & rentals at your destination.

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Things to know & places to visit

Practical tips and top destinations.

Always carry copies of your passport, visa, and travel insurance documents. Keep original documents in a safe place.
Respect local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting local islands or religious sites. Swimwear is generally acceptable only on resort islands and designated bikini beaches.
Be aware of strict drug laws in Maldives; penalties for drug offenses are severe, including lengthy prison sentences.
Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the strong tropical sun by using sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.

Best time to visit

November to April, when the weather is dry and sunny.

Top places

📍 Malé (capital city)
📍 Addu Atoll (southernmost atoll)
📍 Maafushi Island (local island with guesthouses)
📍 Vaadhoo Island (known for bioluminescent beach)
📍 Banana Reef (popular diving spot)

Frequently asked questions

Yes, extensions are possible, but you must apply to Maldives Immigration before your current visa expires. Extensions are not guaranteed and are subject to immigration approval.
No, a tourist visa does not permit employment or any form of paid work in Maldives. Engaging in such activities is a violation of immigration laws.
If you remain in the transit area of the airport and do not pass through immigration, a visa is generally not required. However, if you need to enter the country for any reason, the tourist visa on arrival would apply.
No, the 30-day tourist visa on arrival for Indian citizens is granted free of charge.
The Traveler Declaration (IMUGA) is an online health and immigration form that must be completed by all travelers within 96 hours prior to their arrival in and departure from Maldives.

This page is AI-assisted and last verified on 12 Jul 2026. Visa rules change — always confirm on the official source before you travel.