Key Changes
- Work visa stickers in passports will no longer be valid after 23 November 2025.
- Only an approved e-Visa will be recognized as a valid Work Visa.
- Entry into and departure from the Maldives will be permitted only for individuals holding a valid e-Visa except for new arrivals entering on a valid Entry Pass..
How to Apply for a Work Visa (e-Visa)
All Work Visa applications must be submitted through the Xpat Online System.
Application Process
- Visit immigration.gov.mv and select the Visa tab.
- Navigate to Work Visa and click Open Xpat Online System.
- Log in via xpat.egov.mv using a valid eFaas account.
- Upon successful login, access your dashboard.
- If submitting on behalf of a company:
- Select your profile icon (top-right corner).
- Switch to “My Organization” to operate under the company account.
- Navigate to Work Permit and select View Work Permit.
- Choose the relevant work permit and click Details.
- Open the Visa tab in the employee's profile.
- Click Apply for Visa and select New Request.
- Submit the required documents.
Note: An employee must obtain a Work Visa within 15 days of arrival in the Maldives on a valid Work Permit issued by the Ministry of Homeland Security and Technology.
Documents Required
- Recent photograph (as per Maldives Immigration photo standards)
- Passport biodata page (clear colour copy)
- Additional supporting documents (if applicable)
Submission and Approval
- Applicants are advised to review all details carefully prior to submission.
- Upon approval, an e-Visa logo will appear in the Visa section of the Xpat Online System.
- The approved e-Visa may be viewed or downloaded digitally at any time.
Validity of the Work e-Visa
- The validity of the Work e-Visa will correspond directly to the validity of the approved Work Permit.
- Renewed Work Visas will be issued with a maximum validity of one (1) year.
- Work Visas linked to expired Work Permit fees will be reflected as invalid in the system.
Additional Information
Discrepancies Between Visa and Passport
Entry or departure may be authorized where discrepancies exist between visa details and the physical passport, provided that the passport information corresponds with records submitted in the Immigration system. In such cases, border officers will notify the relevant division to update records accordingly.
Departure with a New Passport
If travelling with a newly issued passport, ensure that your visa reflects the correct passport number before departure.
Entry with a New Passport
Holders of Work, Business, or Corporate Resident Visas must ensure their visa passport number matches their current passport before arrival.
Where discrepancies are identified:
- Business or Corporate Resident Visa holders may be permitted entry upon submission of a new visa application. The passport may be temporarily retained for processing.
- Holders of other visa categories will be subject to passport retention for verification and processing before entry approval.
Exemption
These requirements do not apply to individuals holding dual citizenship.
Important Notes
- Newly arriving expatriates must hold a valid Entry Pass issued by the Ministry of Homeland Security and Technology at the time of arrival to be granted entry into the Maldives.
- Following entry, the employer or authorized representative must apply for and obtain the Work e-Visa within fifteen (15) days from the date of arrival.
