The Maldives saw a record number of tourists in 2019 and had plans to welcome over 2 million visitors in 2020. While of course, the pandemic put a damper on those plans, the Maldives has still had a successful tourism bounce back, all things being considered.
On December 17, 2020, they welcomed the 500,000th visitor to enter the country since the start of 2020.
Since the Maldives officially reopened for tourism on July 15, 2020, and the fact they've kept their entry requirements very easy and straightforward, travel to the islands is still very popular as of 2021.
Here are all the entry requirements for visiting the Maldives and everything else you need to know before you go.
Countries Permitted To Visit Maldives
All nations.
Travelers from all countries are permitted to visit the Maldives under regular visa requirements.
Travel Authorization To Visit Maldives
24 hours before flying into the Maldives, all passengers will need to complete the Traveler Health Declaration form.
COVID-19 Testing Entry Requirements for Maldives
PCR testing is required.
All passengers will need to bring proof of a negative PCR test, administered no more than 96 hours before departure on the first embarkation point.
Transit Note: If the passenger is in transit for less than 24 hours, the test is valid. If the passenger is in transit for more than 24 hours, they will need a new test.
Although the Maldives WAS making exemptions to testing for vaccinated passengers in Spring/Summer-2021, that has now been suspended due to Delta. Even if a passenger is fully vaccinated, they will still be required to provide a 96-hour test.
Quarantine Entry Requirements
When passengers fulfill the 96-hour PCR test requirement and show no symptoms on arrival, there are no mandatory quarantines.
Reopened Hotels and Resorts in the Maldives
Most hotels and resorts have reopened with the government's seal of approval. Here is a full list of all types of accommodation on the islands, along with reopening dates.
COVID-19 Travel Insurance Entry Requirements
All incoming travelers should have travel insurance the covers COVID-19 for the duration of their trip to the Maldives.
COVID-19 Health Requirements While in the Maldives
All visitors must follow COVID-19 health requirements while in the Maldives:
- Airport transfers are only allowed through pick-ups by pre-booked Safe Tourism Hotels.
- Wearing a mask is required in all enclosed spaces in public, but many resorts don’t require one in the pool areas, on the beach, and of course while dining.
- Social distancing of 1 metre is in effect.
- Arrivals could be randomly tested at the airport at the cost of the government.
- The same health declaration form filled out to enter the Maldives must also be completed a second time to leave the country.
COVID-19 Vaccine Entry Requirements
The Maldives has not announced any mandates on if a proof of vaccine record will be required for future entry.
As of April 2021, they will make exceptions for fully vaccinated passengers to skip the 96-hour pCR testing requirement. Traveler will have to show proof that at least 14 days has passed since receiving the last shot.
Update July 23, 2021: All vaccinated passengers will now need the 72-hour PCR test to enter.
Visa Entry Requirements For Maldives
The visa on arrival program in the Maldives is back up and running.
When arriving in the Maldives, nations from all over the world are given a free tourist visa on arrival for 30 days. Citizens of Russia and India are granted up to 90 days.
In order to qualify for the visa on arrival, all passengers must show proof of:
- hotel or accommodation booking
- 6 months remaining on passport
- onward travel ticket
Maldives Covid-19 Entry Requirements:
- Perform a PCR test up to 96 hours before departing into the Maldives
- Fill out the Travelers Health Declaration form 24 hours before departure
- Follow all health protocols while in the Maldives
Live in this Over-Water Bungalow in the Maldives for $2500/m
Countries Reopening For American Tourists
Countries Reopening For Canadian Tourists
Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19
Source: Maldives Ministry of Tourism
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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories
Originally published December 29, 2020, with updates
Marithe
Sunday 31st of January 2021
Recently came back home from a week stay at the Maldives. Me & my husband were desperate for a holiday during this very loooong confinement and so we decided to plan our vacation to escape the winter and did a last minute booking through cruise-maldives. everything went smooth and they took care of all of our requests even for a short period of time. they even helped us with the PCR Test and getting it all done before we left the Maldives. We didnt have to go to the hospital as they could arrange a medical staff to come to the boat to take our samples and wait for 12hours for the result where we paid $70/person for the test. Emergency report could also be done with an additional fee (Mvr2,499) where you can get the results within 4-5hours. i couldnt be more impressed with their service of CRUISE MALDIVES and it was the best way for us to enjoy our holiday without worrying about the pandemic as we were on a private boat trip and we're assisted with the boat crew from arrival to departure. Seriously, I did not feel any worry the whole time, just pure enjoyment and relaxation while sipping my cocktail on a sunset. ;)