Citizens of certain countries, primarily those in the South Asian region like India, can enter the Maldives using a national ID card for short stays. However, most other travelers are required to present a valid passport upon entry.
All travelers entering the Maldives must have a valid passport. Here's a breakdown of the Maldives’ visa policies:
The Maldives grants a free 30-day visa on arrival to all nationalities, provided travelers have a valid passport, a confirmed accommodation booking, and sufficient funds for their stay.
Visitors can apply for a visa extension, allowing them to stay up to 90 days in the Maldives. This can be done through the Maldives Immigration office.
Note: While no advance visa is required, always check entry requirements before planning your trip to ensure there have been no changes.
There are no toll roads or vignettes in the Maldives. The majority of transportation within the country is by boat, seaplane, or on foot, especially in the resort islands and Malé, the capital. There are few roads, primarily in Malé and a few other larger islands, and no toll systems exist.
The Maldives has a tropical climate, characterized by warm temperatures year-round and two distinct monsoon seasons: the dry northeast monsoon and the wet southwest monsoon.
The dry season is the best time to visit the Maldives, with clear skies, sunny weather, and calm seas. Temperatures range from 77°F to 88°F (25°C to 31°C).
The wet season brings heavy rainfall and occasional storms, particularly in the southern atolls. Despite the rain, temperatures remain warm, between 77°F and 88°F (25°C to 31°C).
The official currency of the Maldives is the Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR), symbolized as Rf or MVR. However, the US dollar is widely accepted, especially at resorts and in tourist areas.
Maldivian Rufiyaa banknotes are available in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1000. Coins are available in smaller denominations, such as 1, 2, and 5 Rufiyaa, and various smaller subunits called laari.
Currency exchange services are available at the airport, banks, and some resorts. ATMs are available in Malé and larger inhabited islands, allowing withdrawals in MVR.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in resorts, hotels, and larger businesses. However, it is recommended to carry some cash when visiting smaller local islands.