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Maldives Visa for Antigua And Barbuda Citizens 2026

Visa on Arrival

Antigua and Barbuda citizens travel visa-free to Maldives for tourism, with entry granted on arrival for up to 30 days at immigration.gov.mv.

Guide last updated August 31, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival.
  • Arrival Card: To be completed upon arrival. This is typically provided on the aircraft or at the immigration counter.
  • Financial Proof: Sufficient funds to cover your stay are required. While no specific amount is mandated, travelers are advised to have at least USD 100 per day of their intended stay.
  • Accommodation: Proof of confirmed hotel booking or a letter of invitation from a host in Maldives.
  • Return Ticket: A confirmed return or onward ticket is mandatory.
  • Photo: Passport-style photos are generally not required for visa-free entry on arrival, but it is good practice to have a few in case.
  • Biometrics: Biometrics (fingerprints and photo) are collected on arrival at immigration.
  • Travel Health Insurance: While not strictly mandatory, it is highly recommended to have comprehensive travel health insurance to cover any medical emergencies.

Visa Types

  • Antigua and Barbuda citizens are eligible for visa-free entry for tourism and short business visits.
  • Tourist/Short Business Visit:
  • Official Name: Tourist Visa/Entry Permit
  • Validity: Issued on arrival
  • Max Stay: Up to 30 days per entry, extendable up to 90 days.
  • Entry Type: Single Entry for the initial period.
  • Fee: Free for the initial 30-day period. Extensions are chargeable.

Entry Conditions

  • Antigua and Barbuda citizens are granted entry into Maldives without a pre-arranged visa for tourism or short business purposes.
  • Ports of Entry: Entry is permitted at Velana International Airport (MLE) and other designated ports of entry.
  • On Arrival: Present your valid passport, completed arrival card, proof of accommodation, return ticket, and sufficient funds.
  • Work Restrictions: Visa-free entry does not permit employment or any other form of paid work.
  • Extension Options: If you wish to stay longer than the initial 30 days, you can apply for an extension at the Maldives Immigration Department before your initial permit expires. Extensions are typically granted for up to 60 days, making the total stay a maximum of 90 days. An application fee applies for extensions.

Fees & Processing Time

  • Visa Fee: Free for the initial 30-day stay.
  • Extension Fee: Approximately USD 75 for a 30-day extension, and USD 150 for a 60-day extension. Fees are subject to change and are payable in USD or Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR).
  • Processing Time: The initial 30-day entry permit is granted on arrival within minutes.
  • Extension Processing Time: Processing for extensions typically takes 3-5 working days.
  • Express Option: No express processing for the initial entry permit. Extension processing times are standard.

Tips for Antigua and Barbuda travelers

  • Apply in Advance: For visa-free entry, no advance application is needed for the initial stay. However, for extensions, it is advisable to start the process at least 7-10 days before your current permit expires.
  • Common Rejection Reasons: While unlikely for genuine tourists, rejections on arrival can occur due to insufficient funds, lack of confirmed onward/return tickets, or unapproved accommodation. Ensure all documents are in order.
  • VFS/BLS vs Direct Embassy Application: As Maldives offers visa-free entry for Antigua and Barbuda citizens for tourism, there is no need to apply through VFS/BLS or an embassy for the initial entry. Extensions are applied for directly with Maldives Immigration.
  • Travel Advisories: Always check the latest travel advisories for Maldives issued by your country's foreign affairs ministry before your trip.
  • Extension Process: To extend your stay, visit the Maldives Immigration Department in Malé or their designated service centers. You will need to submit your passport, application form, proof of funds, confirmed onward ticket, and accommodation details. Payment is required for extension fees.

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

This guide is for information only. Visa policies change without notice. Travel Visa Stack is not an immigration authority. Always verify with official government or embassy sources before making travel plans.