Visa & Entry: Immigration Policy and Arrival Process

Visa Policy

The Maldives offers visa-free entry for most nationalities with a free 30-day tourist visa granted on arrival. No advance visa application is needed.

Entry Requirements

• Passport valid for at least 6 months
• Return or onward flight ticket
• Hotel/resort booking confirmation
• Sufficient funds for your stay

Arrival Process

1. On the Plane

• Cabin crew will distribute arrival cards — fill them out in advance
• Have your passport and hotel confirmation handy

2. Filling Out the Arrival Card

The arrival card is in English. Key fields include:

If you're unsure about anything, ask the cabin crew or refer to a fellow traveler's card.

3. Immigration Check

• Queue at immigration and present your passport and arrival card
• The officer may ask which hotel you're staying at and for how long
• Simple English is fine, or just show your hotel confirmation
• After the stamp, one half of the arrival card will be retained

4. Baggage Claim

• Find your carousel by flight number
• Malé Airport (Velana International) is compact, so it's easy to navigate

5. Find Your Resort Representative

• After exiting the arrivals hall, look for your resort's sign holder
• Or head to your resort's airport counter
• They will arrange your onward transfer to the island

Customs Regulations

Prohibited Items

• Alcohol: Strictly prohibited from being brought into the country (Islamic nation)
• Pork products: Including ham, processed pork, etc.
• Drugs: Severe penalties
• Religious items: Non-Islamic religious artifacts

Allowed Items

• Cigarettes: Up to 200
• Perfume: Up to 125ml
• Personal belongings: Carry as normal

Important: Do not bring alcohol into the Maldives — it will be confiscated and you may face a fine. Resorts on the islands serve alcohol.

Departure Process

• Arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before your flight
• Your resort will arrange airport transfer
• No departure card is required
• The airport has duty-free shops for last-minute shopping