Frequently Asked Questions about Maldives

Most nationalities do not require a visa in advance. A 30-day visa is issued upon arrival in the Maldives for tourist purposes. More about visas

A passport valid for at least 6 months, proof of accommodation booking, return ticket and proof of sufficient funds may also be required.

Yes, travelers may be required to complete a health declaration online 96 hours prior to arrival in the Maldives.

The declaration is valid for 96 hours from the date of completion before traveling to Maldives. Read more about health declaration

This may result in you being denied entry as it is one of the requirements for entry.

Yes, you can apply for a visa extension at the immigration office.

In addition to a health declaration, you will also need a valid passport and return tickets, proof of accommodation and proof of sufficient funds to stay in the Maldives.

This is a mandatory document for everyone entering the Maldives. It should include contact details, travel itinerary and proof of absence of COVID-19 symptoms.

A separate health declaration is required for all children, regardless of age, and compliance with general entry regulations is required.

Pregnant women over 28 weeks may be denied entry to the Maldives for medical reasons.

The declaration is valid for 96 hours from the date of completion before traveling to the Maldives.

Yes, after entering the country, tourists can move freely between islands within the territorial waters of the Maldives.

Maldives is world renowned as one of the most picturesque beach vacation destinations. Here are a few details about the best beach destinations in Maldives:

• Biadu Island - Located in Raa Atoll, Biadu Island is famous for its endless white soft sand beaches and turquoise lagoon waters. It is one of the largest uninhabited islands, where regular excursions from neighboring resorts are organized.
• Maafushi Island in Ari Atoll is the local "beach island" with numerous beach bars, restaurants and budget accommodation. Its wide white-sand beaches are surrounded by coral reefs and are ideal for snorkeling.
• Private island resorts also offer luxurious beaches exclusively for their guests. For example, resorts on the islands of Veligandu, Khandu Khura, Naladhu and others have beautifully landscaped beach areas with sun loungers and umbrellas.
• The tiny uninhabited islands in Baa, Lovely and Addu atolls are also very popular for picnic excursions and beach vacations in a secluded atmosphere. Their unspoiled landscapes of white sand and palm trees are the quintessential Maldivian beach paradise.

Local specialties such as fish curry, mas ria (dried fish), garudhiya (fish soup) and sweets like bondi are worth trying in the Maldives.

In addition to beach vacations, in Maldives you can visit the capital Male, the National History Museum, Hukuru Miskiyi Mosque and the reserve islands.

• The capital of Male is both the largest city and a separate atoll. Here you can immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Maldivian culture by visiting the Old Fort, the National Museum, the Grand Mosque of Hukuru Miskiyi and the bustling bazaars. The narrow streets retain colonial buildings and traditional architecture.
• The National History Museum in Male is considered one of the most interesting museums in the country. Its collection includes artifacts, ceramics, numismatics, ethnographic exhibits telling about the history and life of the Maldives.
• Reserve islands - the most famous are Hanifaru and Langmualadu. Here you can observe the life of wild Maldivian turtles, sea cows and numerous species of birds in their natural habitat.
• It is also recommended to visit resort islands with outstanding underwater life for snorkeling and diving, such as Langali, Addu and Rihaveli Hura. And Gaaphera Island has ruins of ninth-century Buddhist monasteries.

Popular souvenirs from the Maldives include handicrafts made from shells, coral (purchase only those whose sale is permitted), coconut fibers, local spices, tea and coconut-based cosmetics.

The official language in the Maldives is Dhivehi, but English is also widely spoken, especially in tourist areas and major cities.

Any amount of cash can be brought into the Maldives, but a declaration must be made when bringing in an amount equivalent to or exceeding 30,000 Maldivian Rufiya (about 1945 USD).

The main religion in the Maldives is Islam.

It is important to protect yourself from direct sunlight, use sunscreen, wear hats and drink enough water. It is also important to respect local laws and traditions, especially those related to Islam.

The Maldives can be visited all year round, but the dry season, which runs from November to April, is considered the most favorable for visiting.

Maldivian Rufiya (MVR) is used in the Maldives, but American dollars are also widely accepted, especially in tourist areas and resorts. Credit cards (especially Visa and MasterCard) are accepted in most hotels, restaurants and stores, but carrying some cash is still recommended.