---
title: Maldives visa for citizens of the United States
description: "Citizens of the United States can get a visa on arrival in the Maldives. Stay up to 30 days. Processing: On arrival. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/maldives/united-states
lastModified: 2026-08-16
---

# Maldives visa for citizens of the United States

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

- **Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity)** (Identity): Must have at least one blank page for visa stamp.
- **Confirmed return or onward ticket** (Travel): Proof of departure from Maldives.
- **Hotel reservation or proof of accommodation** (Travel): For resort islands, standard booking; for non-resort islands, prior government permission needed.
- **Sufficient funds evidence** (Financial, optional): May be requested by immigration officer.
- **Completed arrival card (provided on flight or at airport)** (Travel): Filled out before immigration counter.

## 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.

## FAQs

### 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.

## More

- [Maldives visa for every passport](/visa/maldives)
- [Every destination for United States passport holders](/visa/passport/united-states)