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Official visa guide

Maldives visa for Indian passport holders

Indian tourists get a free 30-day (or longer, per current policy) Visa on Arrival at Male on landing, no advance application needed.

Visa on arrivalTypically 30 days, sometimes extended under current policy

Authority first

Verify the rule with the destination government

Deal4Flight turns published requirements into a planning checklist. The official immigration or embassy source remains authoritative and should be checked again before booking and departure.

Open official portal

Passport validity

At least 6 months from date of entry

Stay duration

Typically 30 days, sometimes extended under current policy

Government fee

Free for tourist Visa on Arrival

Processing

On the spot at immigration, typically a few minutes

Official information and traveller support

Documents required

  • Passport valid for 6+ months
  • Confirmed return or onward flight ticket
  • Confirmed hotel/resort booking or a local sponsor's details
  • Proof of sufficient funds for the stay (may be requested)

Step-by-step: how to apply

  1. 1

    Book your resort/hotel and flights

    Have confirmed accommodation and return travel arranged before departure — immigration may ask to see these.

  2. 2

    Complete the Traveller Health Declaration / IMUGA form

    Fill Maldives' online immigration form (IMUGA) before arrival, as required by current policy.

  3. 3

    Fly to Malé (Velana International Airport)

    Board your flight with your documents ready.

  4. 4

    Present your passport at immigration

    No advance visa is required — the visa-on-arrival stamp is issued directly at the counter.

  5. 5

    Collect your stamped passport

    You'll receive an entry stamp valid for the permitted stay duration.

Entry readiness

What to verify before booking and boarding

Entry eligibility is broader than the visa itself. Use these checks alongside the destination's official portal and your airline's travel-document guidance.

Trip purpose and duration

Confirm that visa on arrival conditions cover your real reason for visiting Maldives and your complete intended stay.

Names and passport details

Match the booking, application and passport exactly. Check expiry, blank pages and physical condition.

Onward travel and accommodation

Keep return or onward tickets, stay details and host information accessible offline when required.

Transit and arrival formalities

Check every connection for transit permission, baggage recheck, terminal change, health or digital arrival forms.

Avoid delays and refusal

Common issues travellers can prevent

  • Using an unofficial application site that adds fees or captures personal data.
  • Submitting an unclear scan, unsuitable photograph or inconsistent passport details.
  • Assuming a valid visa removes the need for onward travel, funds or accommodation evidence.
  • Ignoring transit rules because the traveller does not plan to leave the airport.

Good to know

  • Most travellers transfer directly from the airport to a resort by speedboat or seaplane — factor this into arrival planning.
  • Carrying alcohol or pork products is restricted under Maldivian law outside of resort islands — check customs rules before packing.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to pay for the Maldives visa on arrival?

No, it is free for eligible tourist nationalities including India for the standard permitted stay.

Can I extend my stay beyond the initial visa period?

Extensions are possible through the Maldives Immigration Department, subject to fees and approval.

Does a Maldives visa or entry exemption guarantee admission?

No. The airline checks whether you appear eligible to travel, while Maldives immigration makes the final entry decision. Keep your passport, onward travel, accommodation and any requested supporting evidence ready.

Should I book non-refundable flights before confirming Maldives entry requirements?

Avoid non-refundable commitments until you understand the applicable entry route, document requirements and processing time, unless you accept the risk or an application specifically requires a reservation.

This guide is general information for Indian passport holders, not legal or immigration advice. Visa rules, fees, documents and processing times change often — always confirm current requirements on the Maldives government's official immigration or embassy website, or through a licensed visa agent, before applying or booking non-refundable travel.