Entry Requirements for Maldives:
A Comprehensive Guide for US Citizens

The Maldives, renowned for its pristine beaches and lavish resorts, is open to visitors, and understanding its entry requirements is vital to smooth travel plans. This article aims to answer all your questions concerning the necessary documentation, travel restrictions, local advice, and rules for traveling to this tropical paradise.

Can US citizens travel to the Maldives right now?

What travel documents do American citizens need to travel to the Maldives?

Can US citizens go to the Maldives without a passport?

Can US citizens get a Maldives visa on arrival?

Who can travel to the Maldives without a visa?

How do I obtain or apply for a Maldives visa?

How much does a Maldives visa cost for US citizens?

How long is my Maldives visa valid?

What happens if I overstay my visa in the Maldives?

How do I obtain an entry and exit form?

What are the health requirements and screenings in the Maldives?

FAQs on Maldives travel requirements

Online resources for travelers to the Maldives

Always travel well-informed with CIBT

Can US citizens travel to the Maldives right now?

Yes, US citizens can currently travel to the Maldives. The island nation is open to international tourism, with some COVID-19 precautions still in place.

Travelers should note that the US State Department has issued a Level 2 Travel Advisory for the Maldives, recommending travelers exercise increased caution due to ongoing risk of terrorist attacks targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets and shopping malls, and local government facilities. Attacks could occur on remote islands, lengthening the response time of local authorities. Monitor local media to stay abreast of the situation and adhere to local law.

Travelers to the Maldives should read up on the State Department's guidance on travel to high-risk areas and sign up for the SMART Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). You will receive critical alerts, and the US embassy can locate you more quickly in an emergency.

There is no US embassy in the Maldives. Instead, US citizens visiting the Republic of the Maldives are referred to the US embassy in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The Embassy’s ability to provide services to US citizens in an emergency may be delayed or limited. Many tourist resorts are several hours’ distance from Malé by boat. Thus local authorities may also have a delayed response to medical or criminal emergencies.

What travel documents do American citizens need to travel to the Maldives?

The essential documents for American citizens traveling to the Maldives include a passport with at least one month's validity  from the date of expected departure and a filled-out Travel Declaration Form submitted within 72 hours of departure. A 30-day visitor visa is available upon arrival at the airport.

Can US citizens go to the Maldives without a passport?

No, a valid passport is mandatory for US citizens to gain entry into the Maldives. Ensure that your passport has at least six months of validity from your expected departure date from the Maldives.

Can US citizens get a Maldives visa on arrival?

Yes, US citizens can avail of a free 30-day visa on arrival, available at the airport.

Who can travel to the Maldives without a visa?

Tourists, including US citizens, can travel to the Maldives without a pre-arrival visa. They are granted a 30-day free visa upon arrival.

How do I obtain or apply for a Maldives visa?

As a US citizen, you don't need to apply in advance. You'll receive a 30-day tourist visa upon arrival at no charge.

How much does a Maldives visa cost for US citizens?

The Maldives provides a free 30-day visa on arrival for US citizens, meaning there's no cost involved. For longer stays, any mandatory government fees will apply, in addition to VisaCentral' handling fee.

How long is my Maldives visa valid?

The visa given upon arrival to US citizens is valid for 30 days.

What happens if I overstay my visa in the Maldives?

Overstaying your tourist permit in the Maldives can result in penalties, including fines and potential bans from future travel to the country. It's crucial to plan your travel dates to stay within the timeframe allowed.

How do I obtain an entry and exit form?

The Travel Declaration Form, which acts as an entry and exit form, should be completed and submitted within 72 hours of departure. You can find further information about this form on the Maldives Immigration website.

What are the health requirements and screenings in the Maldives?

This information is subject to change. For the latest guidance, always check government sites directly as noted below.

Vaccinations

Travelers are no longer required to present vaccination certificates, but visitors must fill in a health declaration form within 96 hours of arrival and departure.

Prescriptions and medical records

It's advisable to keep a copy of your vaccination records and any prescription medicines you may need during your stay. Access to medical facilities may be limited on resort islands, and pharmacies may not be easy to reach. Check the CDC's Maldives Packing List before you go.

The Maldives has limited medical facilities and emergency services. Those medical services that are available may be remote. Travelers are advised to have medical insurance or travel insurance that covers overseas medical costs during medical emergencies, including any medical evacuation that might be necessary.

Is a COVID-19 test required for the Maldives?

Tourists and Maldivians returning to the Maldives are no longer required to present a pre-departure negative PCR test for entry. However, other travelers are advised to undertake a PCR test between days three and five of arrival.

Travelers who present symptoms of COVID-19 on arrival will be required to take an antigen test. For groups traveling together, anyone identified as having contact with travelers who are symptomatic for COVID-19 will also be tested.

FAQs on Maldives travel requirements

Can I travel to the Maldives without quarantine?

Yes. Travel-related quarantine is no longer a requirement for tourists entering the Maldives or for Maldivians returning home. Non-tourist visitors traveling to an inhabited island must undergo self-quarantine of 14 days upon arrival at the island. Specific rules apply if you are identified as having direct contact with a positive COVID-19 case.

Do I need to wear a mask in the Maldives?

A mask is not necessarily mandatory but is advised in crowded places and on public transport. It is compulsory in health facilities and outbreak areas.

Are restaurants and bars open in the Maldives?

Yes, restaurants and bars in the Maldives are open. Remember that alcohol is not sold and should not be consumed outside tourist resorts, as local laws follow a religious ban on alcohol.

Will my phone work in the Maldives?

Most foreign phones will work in the Maldives if compatible with international roaming.

What kind of plugs do I need in the Maldives?

Power outlets vary in the Maldives and you could find C, D, G, J, K and L plugs, depending on your island resort. Visitors from the US will want to pack an adapter with multiple plug heads. The power supply voltage is 230V/50Hz. Visitors may need to pack a power converter for any devices that cannot accommodate dual voltage.

What should I wear in the Maldives?

Lightweight clothing suitable for a tropical climate is recommended. Shorts, short-sleeved or sleeveless shirts, and swimwear are suitable on the resort islands, but modest attire is advised on local islands. Opt for loose-fitting clothing that covers the body. Nude sunbathing is prohibited everywhere.

Can I drink alcohol in the Maldives?

Alcohol is available to tourists at the resorts but is prohibited outside of resorts due to religious regulations. Possession and consumption of alcohol outside tourist areas is against local laws and could lead to prosecution. It is also illegal for visitors to bring alcohol into the country.

Is it safe for LGBTQ+ travelers in the Maldives?

By local laws, homosexuality is illegal in the Maldives. However, while the local culture is conservative, resort islands are generally welcoming and accommodating to all travelers. Avoid public displays of affection.

Online resources for travelers to the Maldives

Always travel well-informed with VisaCentral

Whether you're visiting for business or leisure, you can ensure a seamless and enjoyable trip to the Maldives by familiarizing yourself with these travel requirements and guidelines. An experienced visa specialist can help you navigate the complexities of border crossing requirements. Contact VisaCentral for a quote today.

Bon Voyage—Safe Travels!

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