Visa Free Countries for Maldives: A Comprehensive Guide
Maldivian citizens enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to a number of countries around the world, making international travel more convenient and accessible. This comprehensive guide explores the visa-free destinations available to Maldivian passport holders, as well as important considerations for travelers.
Overview of Maldivian Passport Strength
As of 2024, Maldivian citizens have visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 96 countries and territories[1]. This places the Maldivian passport at 57th in terms of travel freedom according to the Henley Passport Index[1]. While not among the most powerful passports globally, it still offers considerable travel opportunities for Maldivian citizens.
Visa-Free Countries for Maldivian Citizens
Maldivian passport holders can travel to the following countries without obtaining a visa in advance:
Asia and Oceania
- Bangladesh (3 months)
- Brunei (14 days)
- Cambodia (30 days)
- China (30 days)
- Fiji (4 months)
- India (90 days)
- Indonesia (30 days with e-VOA or visa on arrival)
- Kazakhstan (30 days)
- Kyrgyzstan (30 days)
- Malaysia (90 days)
- Micronesia (30 days)
- Mongolia (30 days)
- Nepal (90 days with online visa or free visa on arrival)
- Pakistan (3 months)
- Philippines (30 days)
- Qatar (30 days)
- Singapore (30 days)
- Sri Lanka (90 days)
- Thailand (60 days)
- Vanuatu (120 days)
Africa
- Botswana (90 days)
- Eswatini (30 days)
- Lesotho (90 days)
- Mauritius (90 days)
- Morocco (30 days)
- Rwanda (30 days)
- Seychelles (3 months with Electronic Border System)
- South Africa (30 days)
- Tunisia (90 days)
- Zambia (90 days)
- Zimbabwe (3 months)
Americas
- Antigua and Barbuda (6 months)
- Bahamas (3 months)
- Barbados (6 months)
- Costa Rica (90 days)
- Dominica (6 months)
- Ecuador (90 days)
- Grenada (3 months)
- Haiti (90 days)
- Jamaica (90 days)
- Panama (180 days)
- Saint Kitts and Nevis
- Saint Lucia (6 months)
- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (3 months)
- Suriname (90 days)
- Venezuela (90 days)
Europe
- Ireland (90 days)
- Russia (90 days)
- United Kingdom (6 months)
Visa on Arrival Countries
Several countries offer visa on arrival for Maldivian citizens, which can be obtained at the port of entry:
- Armenia (120 days)
- Bahrain (14 days)
- Bolivia (30 days)
- Comoros (45 days)
- Egypt (30 days)
- Jordan
- Laos (30 days)
- Madagascar (60 days)
- Mauritania
- Nicaragua (90 days)
- Palau (30 days)
- Timor-Leste (30 days)
- Tuvalu (1 month)
eVisa and Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) Countries
Some countries require Maldivian citizens to obtain an eVisa or eTA before travel:
- Armenia (120 days)
- Azerbaijan (30 days)
- Benin (30 days)
- Djibouti (90 days)
- Ethiopia (up to 90 days)
- Gabon (90 days)
- Georgia (30 days)
- Guinea (90 days)
- Iran (30 days)
- Kenya (90 days with Electronic Travel Authorization)
- Laos (30 days)
- Myanmar (28 days)
- Nigeria (90 days)
- Saudi Arabia (90 days)
- Tanzania (3 months)
- Turkey (90 days)
- Uganda (3 months)
- Uzbekistan (30 days)
- Vietnam (90 days)
Important Considerations for Maldivian Travelers
Passport Validity
Many countries require that a traveler’s passport be valid for at least six months beyond the date of intended stay. Some countries have shorter requirements:
- 3 months validity: European Union countries (except Ireland), Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland, Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Moldova, Montenegro, and New Zealand[1].
- 1 month validity: Eritrea, Hong Kong, Lebanon, Macau, and South Africa[1].
Always check the specific requirements for your destination before traveling.
Blank Passport Pages
Some countries require one or two blank pages in your passport for entry stamps. Ensure your passport has sufficient blank pages before embarking on international travel.
Vaccination Requirements
Several countries, particularly in Africa, require proof of yellow fever vaccination for entry. Always check the health requirements of your destination and transit countries well in advance of your trip.
Criminal Record
Some countries may deny entry to individuals with criminal records. If you have a criminal history, research the entry requirements of your destination carefully.
Israeli Stamps
Maldivian passport holders should be aware that some countries, including Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Syria, and Yemen, may deny entry if your passport contains Israeli stamps or visas[1]. If you plan to visit these countries, consider requesting that Israeli border officials not stamp your passport.
Biometric Requirements
An increasing number of countries collect biometric data, such as fingerprints or facial scans, upon entry. Be prepared for these procedures at border control.
Tips for Visa-Free Travel
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Always check official sources: Visa policies can change quickly. Always verify the latest requirements with the embassy or official government website of your destination country.
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Carry supporting documents: Even for visa-free travel, you may need to show proof of onward travel, accommodation bookings, or sufficient funds.
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Respect stay durations: Overstaying your allowed time can result in fines, deportation, or future travel restrictions.
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Consider travel insurance: This can provide peace of mind and financial protection in case of emergencies.
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Be aware of reciprocal visa agreements: Some countries may offer visa-free access based on reciprocal agreements. These can change, so stay informed about the latest developments.
Always check official sources: Visa policies can change quickly. Always verify the latest requirements with the embassy or official government website of your destination country.
Carry supporting documents: Even for visa-free travel, you may need to show proof of onward travel, accommodation bookings, or sufficient funds.
Respect stay durations: Overstaying your allowed time can result in fines, deportation, or future travel restrictions.
Consider travel insurance: This can provide peace of mind and financial protection in case of emergencies.
Be aware of reciprocal visa agreements: Some countries may offer visa-free access based on reciprocal agreements. These can change, so stay informed about the latest developments.
Conclusion
Maldivian passport holders enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to a diverse range of countries across the globe. While this offers great travel opportunities, it’s crucial to always research the specific entry requirements for your destination, as policies can change and additional documentation may be needed even for visa-free entry.
Remember that visa-free access doesn’t guarantee entry; border officials have the final say on admission. Always ensure you meet all entry requirements and carry necessary documentation to facilitate smooth travel experiences.
By staying informed and prepared, Maldivian citizens can make the most of their passport’s travel privileges and explore the world with greater ease and convenience.
Citations: [1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_requirements_for_Maldivian_citizens [2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_requirements_for_Maldivian_citizens [3] https://getgoldenvisa.com/passport/maldives [4] https://www.immigration.gov.mv/tourist-visa/ [5] https://visaindex.com/visa-requirement/maldives-passport-visa-free-countries-list/ [6] https://www.guideconsultants.com/all-passports/maldives-passport-visa-free-countries-list/
