The Maldives — a paradise of turquoise waters, white sandy beaches and luxurious overwater villas — is one of the top international travel destinations for Indian tourists. Whether you’re planning a romantic honeymoon, a family vacation or a quick tropical escape, Maldives offers something magical for everyone.
But before you pack your bags, it’s crucial to understand the visa process, entry requirements, customs rules and important travel tips — even if the Maldives offers a free visa on arrival for Indians. Small mistakes like missing documents or lack of bookings can lead to immigration hassles, or even denial of entry.
As a trusted guide for Indian travelers, this article provides a complete and up-to-date Maldives Visa Guide for Indians — covering types of visas, required documents, how to get visa on arrival, customs rules, travel tips and extension procedures. It’s all you need to travel with confidence.
Do Indians Need a Visa for Maldives?
No pre-applied visa is required for Indian citizens. Maldives offers a free Visa on Arrival for Indian passport holders. You simply arrive with valid documents and get stamped at immigration.
- Duration: 30 days
- Visa Type: Tourist visa on arrival
- Extendable: Yes, up to 90 days
Maldives is one of the easiest international destinations for Indians to visit for tourism.
Types of Maldives Visa
1. Tourist Visa (Visa on Arrival)
- Free for Indian nationals
- Issued for tourism and leisure only
- Not valid for employment or business
- Can be extended up to 90 days
2. Business Visa
- Requires a pre-approval letter from Maldives Immigration
- Issued for business meetings, investments, trade visits
- Not for paid work
- Sufficient Funds
3. Work Visa (Employment Visa)
- Must be obtained before entering Maldives
- Applied by employer or sponsor in Maldives
- Requires medical tests, employment contract, police clearance
- Valid for 1–2 years, renewable
4. Dependent/Family Visa
- For family members of residents/workers
- Sponsored visa, requires relationship proof
🔔 Tourist visa (VOA) is the only one issued on arrival. All others require pre-approval.
Documents Required for Visa on Arrival (Indians)
At immigration in Maldives, Indian travelers must present:
- Valid Passport (minimum 6-month validity)
- Return or onward flight ticket
- Proof of accommodation (hotel/resort booking)
- Proof of sufficient funds (USD 100 per day recommended)
- Travel insurance (not mandatory but highly recommended)
- Passport-size photo (usually not required, but carry it for safety)
- IMUGA Traveller Declaration
No visa forms or embassy visits are needed for a tourist visit.
Also Read: Romantic Things to do in Maldives
What is IMUGA & Why It’s Mandatory?
IMUGA is the official Maldives Immigration portal used for submitting the Traveller Health Declaration.
Mandatory for:
- All travelers entering and exiting Maldives
- Every trip — both arrival and departure
When to submit: Within 96 hours (4 days) of your departure time (both ways)
Where to fill: https://imuga.immigration.gov.mv
What you’ll need:
- Passport details
- Travel dates
- Hotel/resort confirmation
- Return ticket
- A passport-size photo (under 2MB)
Save the QR code or confirmation email — it will be checked at immigration.
Visa Fees & Validity
- Extension fee: MVR 750 (~₹4,000)
- Visa Cost for Indians: ₹0 (Free Visa on Arrival)
- Stay Duration: 30 days per entry
- Extension: Allowed once, up to 90 days (Apply before the visa expires)
Maldives Visa on Arrival – Step-by-Step Process
- Arrive at Velana International Airport (Malé)
- Proceed to immigration counter
- Submit passport, flight ticket, hotel booking & IMUGA QR
- Officer may ask basic questions
- Get stamped with a 30-day tourist visa
Total time: 10–15 minutes if all documents are ready.
Entry Requirements (Even if Visa is Free)
- You must show confirmed hotel booking and return flight
- You should carry minimum USD 100 or an international card/forex card
- Immigration officers can deny entry without explanation if requirements aren’t met
- Maldives does not allow transit to resorts without prior booking
Proof of Funds – How Much to Carry?
Immigration authorities may ask for proof that you can afford your stay.
- Minimum: USD 100 per day per person
- You can show:
- Bank statement
- International debit/credit card
- Forex card
- Cash (USD preferred)
Travel Insurance: Required or Not?
While not mandatory for Indians, travel insurance is strongly recommended for:
- Medical emergencies (healthcare in Maldives is expensive)
- Trip delays or cancellations
- Lost baggage
- COVID-related expenses (if applicable)
Suggested Indian providers: Tata AIG, HDFC Ergo, Niva Bupa, ICICI Lombard
Coverage: At least USD 50,000
Also Read: Maldives Travel Guide
How to Extend Maldives Tourist Visa
- Apply at Department of Immigration, Malé
- Must apply before original 30-day visa expires
- Reasons: Honeymoon extension, medical issues, long vacation
- Fee: MVR 750
- Required:
- Passport copy
- Application form
- Reason for extension
- Updated hotel booking
- Proof of funds
Maldives Customs Rules – What Indians Should Know
Prohibited Items:
- Alcohol (except inside licensed resorts)
- Pork or pork-based items
- Religious texts or idols for distribution
- Firearms, explosives
- Drones (unless pre-approved)
- E-cigarettes may be confiscated
Permitted Items (Limits Apply)
- Medicines (with prescription)
- Electronics (1 laptop, 1 camera, 2 phones allowed)
- Cash: Declare if USD 10,000+
Indian Embassy in Maldives
📍Address: High Commission of India,
Lot No. 11499 N1 56 (E),Hithigas Magu,
Goalhi – 4 Hulhumale Phase-I, Maldives
📞 Phone No. : +960-4004176, +960-4004177
🌐 https://www.hcimale.gov.in/
Services:
- Emergency assistance
- Passport support
- Legal help
- Registration of Indian citizens
Quick Travel Tips for Indian Tourists
- Currency: USD is accepted almost everywhere (1 MVR ≈ ₹5.4)
- SIM Cards: Available at airport – Ooredoo & Dhiraagu
- Food: Veg options available in resorts and guesthouses
- Transfers: Arrange in advance – speedboats or seaplanes
- Dress Code: Modest on local islands; beachwear allowed in resorts
- Best Time to Visit: November to April (dry season)
Maldives Visa FAQs for Indians
Do Indians need a visa for Maldives?
No, Indians get a free Visa on Arrival for 30 days.
Is the IMUGA form mandatory for Indians?
Yes, you must submit the Traveller Declaration on imuga.immigration.gov.mv within 96 hours before both arrival and departure.
How much is the visa fee of Maldives for Indians?
Free for Indian passport holders.
What documents are required at immigration?
Passport, return ticket, hotel booking, proof of funds and IMUGA QR code.
Can the visa be extended?
Yes, up to 90 days. Apply before expiry. Extension fee applies.
Can I work on a tourist visa?
No, working on a tourist visa is illegal. You need a work visa sponsored by an employer.
Do I need travel insurance?
Not mandatory, but highly recommended for medical and trip emergencies.
How much money should I carry?
At least USD 100/day per person or equivalent proof via card or bank statement.
Can I visit local islands with this visa?
Yes, but follow local customs and dress modestly outside resorts.
Can I carry alcohol into Maldives?
No, bringing alcohol is strictly prohibited. It’s only available in licensed resorts.
