United States passport → Maldives

Maldives visa for citizens of the United States

Visa on arrivalVisa on Arrival · Tourist (30 days, extendable up to 90 days)

Citizens of the United States can get a visa on arrival in the Maldives.

Verified · Last checked 2026-08-16. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	Visa on Arrival · Tourist (30 days, extendable up to 90 days)
How to apply	Get your visa at the border
Maximum stay	Up to 30 days
Visa validity	30 days
Entries	Single entry
Processing time	On arrival
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Not required
Appointment	Not required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Sufficient funds for stay (typically $100 per day or confirmed hotel booking)

How to apply

1
Prepare documents before travel
Ensure passport valid 6+ months, have return ticket and hotel booking.
2
Arrive at Malé International Airport
Proceed to immigration counter after landing.
3
Fill out arrival card
Complete the immigration arrival card (usually given on the plane).
4
Present documents to immigration officer
Submit passport, arrival card, return ticket, and hotel confirmation.
5
Pay visa fee (if applicable)
Visa on arrival is free for US citizens as of now, but fee may apply for others.
6
Receive visa stamp
Officer stamps passport with 30-day visa on arrival.
7
Collect baggage and exit
Proceed to baggage claim and customs.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity)
Must have at least one blank page for visa stamp.

Travel

Confirmed return or onward ticket
Proof of departure from Maldives.
Hotel reservation or proof of accommodation
For resort islands, standard booking; for non-resort islands, prior government permission needed.
Completed arrival card (provided on flight or at airport)
Filled out before immigration counter.

Financial

Sufficient funds evidence
Optional
May be requested by immigration officer.

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: Sufficient for stay (typically $100 per day or prepaid hotel)

Cash
Credit card
Bank statement
Traveler's checks

Immigration may ask for proof of funds; not always required.

Good to know

Travel to non-resort islands requires prior permission from Maldives Immigration.
Visa on arrival is free for US citizens but may change; check before travel.
Overstaying results in fines and possible deportation.

Common refusal reasons

Passport validity less than 6 months

Ensure passport valid for at least 6 months from date of arrival.

No return/onward ticket

Book a confirmed return or onward ticket before travel.

Insufficient funds or no accommodation proof

Carry proof of hotel booking and sufficient funds.

Previous overstay or immigration violation in Maldives

Respect visa conditions and leave before expiry.

FAQ

Do citizens of the United States need a visa for the Maldives?

Citizens of the United States can get a visa on arrival in the Maldives. Visa type: Visa on Arrival · Tourist (30 days, extendable up to 90 days).

How long can citizens of the United States stay in the Maldives?

Up to 30 days.

What documents do citizens of the United States need for the Maldives?

Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity); Confirmed return or onward ticket; Hotel reservation or proof of accommodation; Completed arrival card (provided on flight or at airport); Sufficient funds evidence.

How long must my passport be valid for the Maldives?

At least 6 months.

Plan your trip to the Maldives

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