Maldives Visa Requirements 2026
Complete guide to Maldives tourist visa, visa-free entry, visa extension, and application process for US, UK, Canadian, and international travelers
Quick Facts: Maldives Visa Requirements 2026
Understanding Maldives Visa Requirements in 2026
The Maldives, a tropical paradise of over 1,000 coral islands in the Indian Ocean, offers visa-free entry for most visitors. In 2026, the Maldives continues to welcome travelers with one of the most accessible visa policies in the world, making it extremely easy to visit this stunning destination.
Most nationalities, including US, UK, Canada, EU, Australia, and many others, can visit the Maldives visa-free for up to 30 days for tourism. No advance application is needed for visa-free travelers - just present your passport, return ticket, and proof of accommodation at immigration. This makes the Maldives one of the easiest countries to visit.
For longer stays, visa-free travelers can extend their stay for an additional 60 days (total 90 days) at local immigration offices. The extension process is straightforward and costs 750 MVR (approximately $50 USD). The Maldives is particularly popular for honeymoons, diving, and luxury resort stays.
Types of Maldives Visas Available in 2026
Visa-Free Entry
Available for citizens of 180+ countries including US, UK, Canada, EU, Australia, and more. Stay up to 30 days, can be extended to 90 days.
- Free of charge
- 30 days (extendable to 90 days)
- No advance application needed
Visa Extension
Extend your 30-day visa-free stay for an additional 60 days at local immigration offices. Total stay can be up to 90 days.
- Fee: 750 MVR (~$50 USD)
- 60 days extension
- Processing: 1-3 business days
Work Visa
For employment in Maldives. Requires job offer, work permit, and employer sponsorship. Valid for employment duration.
- Fee: Varies
- Valid for employment duration
- Requires employer sponsorship
Business Visa
For business travelers. Can be extended for longer stays. Requires business invitation or company registration.
- Fee: Varies
- 30-90 days (extendable)
- Requires business documents
Maldives Visa Requirements by Nationality
🇺🇸 US Citizens
US citizens can visit Maldives visa-free for up to 30 days for tourism. Can be extended to 90 days total. No advance application needed.
- Visa-free: 30 days (extendable to 90 days)
- Extension fee: 750 MVR (~$50 USD)
- Valid passport (6+ months validity) required
- Return ticket and accommodation proof required
🇬🇧 UK Citizens
UK citizens enjoy the same visa-free privileges as US citizens. 30 days visa-free entry (extendable to 90 days).
- Visa-free: 30 days (extendable to 90 days)
- Extension fee: 750 MVR (~$50 USD)
- Valid passport required
- Return ticket and accommodation proof required
🇨🇦 Canadian Citizens
Canadian citizens can visit Maldives visa-free for 30 days. Can be extended to 90 days total.
- Visa-free: 30 days (extendable to 90 days)
- Extension fee: 750 MVR (~$50 USD)
- Valid passport required
- Multiple entries allowed
Required Documents for Maldives Entry
Essential Documents
- ✓Valid passport (6+ months validity, 1 blank page)
- ✓Confirmed return or onward ticket
- ✓Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or resort confirmation)
- ✓Proof of sufficient funds ($100 USD per day or credit card)
Additional Requirements
- ✓Completed immigration form (provided on arrival)
- ✓Yellow fever vaccination certificate (if arriving from affected areas)
- ✓Travel insurance (recommended)
- ✓Cash or credit card for extension fee (if extending stay)
Step-by-Step Maldives Entry Process
Check if You Qualify for Visa-Free Entry
Most nationalities including US, UK, Canada, EU, and Australia qualify for 30 days visa-free entry. No advance application needed.
Prepare Required Documents
Ensure you have valid passport (6+ months validity), confirmed return ticket, hotel reservation or proof of accommodation, and proof of sufficient funds.
Book Accommodation
Reserve your hotel or resort stay. You'll need to show proof of accommodation at immigration. Most resorts provide this confirmation.
Enter Maldives
Present passport, return ticket, and accommodation proof at immigration. Visa-free entry is granted immediately at the border.
Complete Immigration Form
Fill out the immigration form provided on arrival. This is a simple form with basic personal and travel information.
Extend Your Stay (if needed)
Visit Department of Immigration before your 30-day period expires. Pay 750 MVR (~$50 USD) to extend for 60 more days (total 90 days).
Maldives Visa Fees and Processing Times 2026
| Visa Type | Fee | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Visa-Free Entry (30 days) | Free | Immediate at border |
| Visa Extension (60 days) | 750 MVR (~$50 USD) | 1-3 business days |
| Work Visa | Varies | 2-4 weeks |
| Business Visa | Varies | 1-2 weeks |
| Student Visa | Varies | 2-4 weeks |
Frequently Asked Questions About Maldives Visa
Do US citizens need a visa for Maldives?
US citizens can visit Maldives visa-free for up to 30 days for tourism. No visa application is required before traveling, but you must have a valid passport, return ticket, and proof of accommodation.
How long can I stay in Maldives without a visa?
Most nationalities, including US, UK, Canada, EU, and Australia, can stay visa-free for 30 days. This can be extended for an additional 60 days (total 90 days) at local immigration offices.
How much does a Maldives visa extension cost?
Visa-free entry is free for eligible countries. Visa extension costs 750 MVR (approximately $50 USD) for an additional 60 days. Processing takes 1-3 business days.
What documents do I need for Maldives visa-free entry?
For visa-free entry, you need a valid passport (6+ months validity), confirmed return or onward ticket, proof of accommodation (hotel booking), and sufficient funds (approximately $100 USD per day or credit card).
Can I extend my stay in Maldives?
Yes, visa-free stays can be extended for an additional 60 days (total 90 days) at local immigration offices before your 30-day period expires. Extension costs 750 MVR (~$50 USD).
Do I need a visa for Maldives if I'm on a cruise?
Cruise ship passengers who remain on the ship or only visit during the day do not need a visa. If you plan to stay overnight in Maldives, you'll need to follow the visa-free entry requirements.