Living in Maldives: the ultimate expat guide
Everything you need to know for a successful life in Maldives.
Lost in the middle of the Indian Ocean, the Maldives mean much more than heavenly beaches surrounded by turquoise seas and bordered by white sand and palm trees.Indeed, the archipelago, consisting of 26 atolls and 1,200 islands, is very conducive to expatriation and foreign investment.
By choosing to live in the Maldives, you will be entitled to an unparalleled quality of life along with various opportunities.
Coconuts and banana trees thrive in the Maldives' year-round warmth. Temperatures range from 25°C in the winter to 30°C in the summer. There are two monsoon seasons in the year ' the winter monsoon season is dry, mild, and windy, and the summer monsoon brings wet and stormy weather. The coast of the Maldives has suffered from the effects of climate change and is considered at risk of rising sea levels due to its low-lying land.
Given the surrounding ocean, it shouldn't come as a surprise to expats that there are many options regarding water-based activities, such as surfing, diving, canoeing, and jet skiing.
The Maldives is a strictly Muslim country, and it is advisable to research on the country's religious, social, and gender expectations before you arrive to avoid misunderstandings and conflict. Also, expats should take into consideration that there are strict laws around alcohol and social drinking.
Tourism is an ever-increasing economy for the Maldives, as it has firmly become a dream holiday destination. Native English speakers are sought-after, and many hotels offer accommodation as part of the job package, but this normally consists of bunk beds in shared dorms.
Formalities
Find out more on visas, passports and entry requirements to travel to Maldives.
Travelling to the Maldives
If you are planning a trip to the Maldives, learning about the country's entry requirements as well as the regulations for short or long term ...
Visas
All you need to know on work visas, work permits, working holiday visas and residence permits to live and work in Maldives.
Visas to the Maldives
The Maldives are one of the world's most idyllic travel destinations. Welcoming over 1.5mln visitors annually and with most of its economy ...
Work
Dive into the Maldives labour market, legal framework and tips on how to find a job in Maldives.
Work in the Maldives
The Maldives are one of the worlds most popular beach vacation destinations. Boasting stunning ...
Work in Male
Male is the capital of the Maldives, the countrys largest and most populous city. With that, its ...
Jobs in Maldives
Discover professional opportunities in Maldives and boost your career.
Accommodation
Explore real estate or temporary rentals in Maldives. Find out more about renting or buying a house or a flat, real estate agents, leases and rental agreements.
Study
Universities, training courses, student visas, registration procedures: all you need to know about being an international student in Maldives.
Study in the Maldives
The Maldives will probably not be the first place that comes to mind when you think about studying abroad. With its remote location and geographical ...
Health care
Understanding the healthcare system in Maldives: public and private health system, health insurance...
Bank
Navigate the banking system in Maldives: how to choose a bank and open a bank account.
Tax
All you need to know about income tax, the tax system and filing your taxes as an expat in Maldives.
Taxes in the Maldives
So, you are considering working or opening a business in the Maldives. One of the questions on your mind will probably be taxation. Do you need to ...
Transport
From public transports to renting or buying a car, explore the best options to getting around in Maldives.
Driving
Essential information on driving requirements in Maldives, driver's license exchange and international permits.
Driving in the Maldives
When moving to any foreign country for a relatively long period of time, you will want to have an efficient way to get around. The Maldives, a group ...
Removal
Moving to Maldives? Find useful information and tips to organize your move.
Moving to the Maldives
Once you have decided to move to the Maldives, you will need an efficient way to get your ...
Travelling to the Maldives with your pet
If you are travelling to the Maldives for the long term, you may be wondering if it would be ...
Free quotes for your move
Get the best offers to easily organize your relocation to Maldives.
Communications
Internet and phone providers, plans, and everything you need to stay connected in Maldives.
Phones and Internet in the Maldives
No matter how short or long of a stay you are planning in the Maldives, you will want to stay connected throughout your trip: call friends and ...
Leisure
Sports, leisure, culture and other activities expats can enjoy in their spare time in Maldives.
Everyday life
Eager to discover what life in Maldives looks like? Here's a taste.
Articles from the magazine
Gulzat in Maldives: "It's the paradise for people in love with the sea and the beach"
Gulzat comes from Kyrgyzstan. She had always dreamt of living on an island. Seven months ago, her dream came true: she got a job opportunity in Maldives and she is now enjoying life as an islander...
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