Maldives
South Asia • MDV
Last updated: October 14, 2026
The Maldives is a stunning archipelago nation known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and luxurious overwater bungalows. It serves as a premier destination for honeymooners, scuba divers, and travelers seeking an idyllic tropical escape in the Indian Ocean.
Visa Requirements
A free 30-day tourist visa is granted to all nationalities upon arrival provided that entry requirements are met.
Typically Required Documents
- Passport valid for at least six months
- Confirmed onward or return travel ticket
- Evidence of sufficient funds for the duration of the stay
- Completed Traveler Declaration form submitted online within 96 hours of arrival
Popular Attractions
Male City: The capital offers a glimpse into local culture with historical sites like the Old Friday Mosque and the bustling local fish market.
Baa Atoll: A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, this area is world-renowned for its incredible marine biodiversity and seasonal manta ray sightings.
Maafushi Island: A popular local island that offers an affordable way to experience the Maldives with various water sports and excursion options.
Underwater Restaurants: Iconic dining experiences found at several luxury resorts where guests can enjoy gourmet meals while surrounded by panoramic ocean views.
Vaadhoo Island: Famous for its 'Sea of Stars,' this location features bioluminescent plankton that makes the shoreline glow beautifully at night.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Dress modestly when visiting local islands or the capital by keeping shoulders and knees covered out of respect for Islamic culture.
Alcohol consumption is strictly prohibited on local islands and is only available in designated resort areas.
Always remove your shoes before entering someone's home or a mosque as a sign of respect.
Public displays of affection, such as kissing, are culturally insensitive and should be avoided in public spaces.
During the holy month of Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public view while on local islands during daylight hours.
Safety Tips
Be mindful of strong currents when swimming or snorkeling, and always follow the advice of local guides or warning flags.
Stay hydrated by drinking bottled or purified water, as tap water is generally not safe for consumption.
Protect your skin from the intense tropical sun by using high-SPF sunscreen and wearing protective clothing.
Always use authorized transport services, such as resort speedboats or seaplanes, when traveling between islands.
Keep your travel documents and valuables secure in your hotel safe, and carry a digital copy of your passport with you.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
Yellow Fever
Source: CDC
Not required when traveling directly from non-risk countries.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travelers arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
Core Vaccines
Routine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure vaccinations are up to date before travel.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
Recommended to be fully vaccinated prior to travel.
View sourceMMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
Source: CDC
Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date before travel.
View sourceTdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
Source: CDC
Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date before travel.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap)
Source: CDC
Check that you are up-to-date on your routine vaccines before your trip.
View sourceRoutine vaccines: MMR, DTaP, and annual flu vaccine
Source: CDC
Ensure routine vaccines are up to date before traveling to protect against common diseases.
View sourceTdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis) booster every 10 years
Source: CDC
Stay up to date on tetanus and diphtheria vaccination especially if traveling to rural areas.
View sourceRoutine vaccinations (MMR, Tdap, etc.)
Source: CDC
It is important for overall health protection against common diseases.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccine
Source: CDC
To prevent COVID-19, vaccination is highly recommended prior to traveling.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers due to potential risk through food and water.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures
Source: CDC
To avoid mosquito-borne diseases prevalent in the region.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may eat or drink outside major restaurants and hotels.
View sourceRoutine Vaccines (MMR, Tdap, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to provide general immunity.
View sourceRoutine Vaccines (MMR, DTaP, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to provide general immunity.
View sourceRoutine vaccines
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date including MMR, DTaP, Varicella, and Polio.
View sourceRoutine Vaccines
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations (MMR, Tdap, Polio, etc.) are up to date before travel.
View sourceFor Most Travelers
Typhoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities/rural areas.
Risk exists due to contaminated food and water.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers due to risk through contaminated food or water.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
Maldives has a risk of mosquito-borne diseases, so protective measures are advisable.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures
Source: CDC
To prevent diseases such as dengue and chikungunya, which are transmitted through mosquito bites.
Use insect repellent and wear protective clothing.
View sourceTraveler's diarrhea precautions
Source: CDC
Practice safe food and water measures to prevent traveler's diarrhea.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccinations
Source: CDC
Recommended to reduce the risk of severe illness or complications from COVID-19 while traveling.
Follow local guidelines regarding COVID testing and vaccination.
View sourceFood and water safety
Source: CDC
To avoid foodborne illnesses, travelers should be cautious about consuming food and beverages.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Considered for those who might be exposed to blood or bodily fluids.
View sourceRabies vaccine (if high-risk activities planned)
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers engaging in activities that could expose them to bats or other mammals.
View sourceInsect Bite Prevention
Source: CDC
Required to protect against mosquito-borne diseases.
Use EPA-registered insect repellent and wear long-sleeved clothing.
View sourceFood and Water Safety
Source: CDC
Precautions are advised to prevent foodborne and waterborne diseases.
Eat and drink safely to avoid diarrheal illnesses.
View sourceItinerary-Specific
Malaria prevention
Source: CDC
For those traveling to remote areas or islands where malaria mosquitoes are present.
Consult a medical provider for prophylaxis options.
View sourceDengue prevention measures
Source: CDC
Recommended due to high incidence of dengue fever; avoid standing water and use appropriate insect repellent.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Considered based on specific travel activities that may involve contact with blood or bodily fluids.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers involved in outdoor activities or working with animals.
View sourceOther region-specific vaccines as needed
Source: CDC
Based on your activities, age, health conditions, and vaccines received in the past.
View sourceRabies vaccine
Source: CDC
Consider if engaging in outdoor activities that may involve animals.
Post-exposure rabies treatment may be less available.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers who may have sexual contact with the local population or skin exposure.
View sourceInsect Bite Prevention
Source: CDC
Use repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and use bed nets to prevent mosquito-borne diseases.
View sourceFood and Water Safety Precautions
Source: CDC
Essential to prevent gastrointestinal illness; drink only bottled or treated water and consume only thoroughly cooked food.
View source