Maldives passport → Japan

Japan visa for citizens of the Maldives

Embassy / VFSTourist Visa · Single Entry (up to 90 days)

Citizens of the Maldives need a visa for Japan and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

Verified · Last checked 2026-09-05. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	Embassy / VFS · Tourist Visa · Single Entry (up to 90 days)
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 90 days
Visa validity	90 days
Entries	Single entry
Processing time	5–7 days
Government fee	$30
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Bank statements for last 3 months showing sufficient balance

How to apply

1
Determine visa type and prepare documents
Choose tourist visa and gather all required documents listed above.
2
Complete visa application form
Fill out the official Japanese visa application form accurately.
3
Book an appointment at the Embassy of Japan
Contact or visit the embassy in Male (or designated VFS centre) to schedule submission.
4
Submit application in person
Attend the appointment with original documents and biometric enrollment.
5
Pay visa fee
Pay USD 30 at the embassy (cash or card as accepted).
6
Wait for processing
Processing typically takes 5–7 business days.
7
Collect passport
Return to the embassy to collect the passport with visa affixed.

Documents checklist

Travel

Valid passport
At least 6 months validity from arrival date
Flight itinerary
Round-trip or onward ticket
Hotel booking or accommodation proof
For entire stay in Japan

Financial

Bank statements
Last 3 months with sufficient balance for the trip
Income tax returns
Optional
Last 1-2 years if available

Employment

Employment letter
Stating position, salary, and approved leave (if employed)
Company registration / business license
Optional
If self-employed

Supporting

Visa application form
Completed and signed
Passport-sized photo
45mm x 35mm, white background, taken within 6 months
Tourist visa cover letter
Optional
Briefly explaining purpose and itinerary
Travel insurance
Optional
Recommended, covering medical expenses
Previous passports (if any)
Optional
To show travel history
Proof of ties to home country
Optional
e.g., property deeds, family certificates
Invitation letter (if visiting friends/family)
Optional
From host in Japan with their residence card copy

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: Equivalent of approximately USD 1,000–2,000 for the trip length

Bank statements
Income tax returns
Salary slips

Sufficient to cover travel, accommodation, and daily expenses.

Good to know

Applying with incomplete documents will lead to rejection.
In-person appearance for biometrics is mandatory – no exceptions.
Visa is single-entry only; departure ends the stay.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient funds or unclear source of income

Provide clear bank statements with consistent salary deposits and a strong financial cover letter.

Incomplete or incorrect application form

Double-check all fields and sign the form.

Weak ties to home country (risk of overstay)

Submit proof of employment, property, or family in Maldives.

FAQ

Do citizens of the Maldives need a visa for Japan?

Citizens of the Maldives need a visa for Japan and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Tourist Visa · Single Entry (up to 90 days).

How long can citizens of the Maldives stay in Japan?

Up to 90 days.

How much does the Japan visa cost for citizens of the Maldives?

Government fee: $30.

How long does Japan visa processing take?

Typically 5–7 days.

What documents do citizens of the Maldives need for Japan?

Valid passport; Visa application form; Passport-sized photo; Flight itinerary; Hotel booking or accommodation proof; Bank statements; and 8 more.

How long must my passport be valid for Japan?

At least 6 months.

Where do I apply?

On the official site: https://www.mofa.go.jp/j_info/visit/visa/

Sources

mofa.go.jp

Plan your trip to Japan

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