Moving to Maldives

The Republic of Maldives is an island country in the Indian Ocean that is formed by a double chain of 26 atolls. Its territory is spread over roughly 90,000 square kilometers. It has over 1,000 islets, and about 200 of them are inhabited. Its capital is Male. It used to be predominately Buddhist, but today is mainly Muslim. It is the smallest Muslim-majority country, as well as the smallest Asian country in both population and size. It has the lowest highest point in the world at 2.3 meters. It has a population of about 350,000, and its official language is Dhivehi, though English is spoken in the government. As it is the lowest country in the world, it threatens one day being covered over by the ocean.

Visas

Work Visa

To work in Maldives, you must have a job lined up. Prior to granting a work permit, your prospective employer is required to advertise your job in a local newspaper with details about the salary, work site, hours, benefits and other information.

If no one can fill this spot, your employer can then go ahead with obtaining your work permit. You must provide your employer with a copy of your passport, educational papers, experience papers and any other possible relevant documents.

After this initial process passes, your employer must apply for a work permit card before you arrive in Maldives.

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The following documents are required:

1. Copy of work permit
2. Original employment contract
3. Employee passport
4. 2 stamp size photos of employee
5. Valid medical report
6. Fees

Student Visa

If you intend to study in Maldives, you should have a guardian in the country. Your guardian must apply for your visa on your behalf, by sending documents to the Immigration officers. The guardian must provide information about your intention to study in Maldives, that they will act as a guardian for you, and the type of study that you will engage in. Employment is prohibited. You must have a valid passport to enter the country.

Moving Pets

The import of dogs into Maldives is strictly prohibited. For other animals, you must present a health certificate from an authorized veterinarian, and satisfy an officer that your pet is healthy and free from any contagious diseases. Pets may enter into Maldives as checked baggage, in the cabin or cargo.

Click here for information about customs.

Other Information

Click here for details about import customs in Maldives.

Click here for a map of Maldives.

Click here for information about Maldives’ embassies.

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