The Maldives are one of the world's most idyllic travel destinations. Welcoming over 1.5mln visitors annually and with most of its economy relying on tourism, the country is very friendly to travellers and nationals of all countries can get a tourist visa directly on arrival in the Maldives. But what if you want to stay beyond the allowed 30 days? Learn about your options in this article.
Types of visas to the Maldives
The first and most common type of visa you can get is a tourist visa. As mentioned above, this visa can be obtained on arrival in the country. You will need to present your passport, bookings for the return ticket and hotel, and proof that you have enough financial means for the length of your stay (typically, it is $50 per day minimum).
Note that you can not work in the country on a tourist visa.
Work visa
If you want to work in the Maldives, you will need to apply for a working permit and then the resident visa. In order to do so, you will first need to find a job in the country. Once your position has been secured, your employer will file for the Employment Approval (EA) on your part ' this is the document you will need to enter the country. Once there, you will need to undergo a medical check and get a medical certificate. Finally, if no problems arise, a work visa will be stamped into your passport. These are typically given for a year and can be renewed upon expiration.
Student visa
If you want to study in the Maldives, you will need to apply for a student visa. A student visa is granted to those enrolled in a university in the Maldives. In order to apply for a student visa, you will need:
- a filled in IM23 application form
- valid passport and passport sized photos
- a letter of acceptance from the university you have enrolled in
- expat health insurance for the length of your stay
- a medical certificate
- proof of paid tuition for the first three months
Business visa
If you want to stay in the Maldives on business, you will need to apply for a business visa. This type of visa is issued to foreign nationals who intend to business or professional work in the country that has been approved by the related Maldivian Government authority. You will need to prepare the following documents:
- filled in IM30 application form (for NGO volunteers)
- filled in IM32 application form (for media workers and journalists)
- filled in IM24 application form
- copy of the registration of the company/club/association you intend to do business with
- passport copy
- qualification certificates
- letter from a foreign company (explaining the purpose of your trip)
- expat health insurance for the length of your stay
Dependent visa
If you have family travelling with you, you can apply for a dependent visa for them. The dependent visa is tied to the professional visa the main applicant is holding and will be issued for the same time. The following documents will be requested:
- IM23 application form
- a valid passport and passport-sized photos
- copy of the main applicant's work visa or employment approval
- copy of marriage certificate and birth certificates for children
- expat health insurance for the length of stay
- medical report
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