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Travel Advisory June 23, 2023

Maldives - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with updates to health information.

Exercise increased caution in Maldives due to terrorism .

Country Summary: Terrorist groups may conduct attacks with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities. Attacks may occur on remote islands which could lengthen the response time of authorities.   

If you decide to travel to Maldives:

• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Stay alert in locations frequented by Westerners.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the Country Security Report for Maldives.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist  plan for emergency situations.

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Must be valid Must be valid for six months from expected date of departure from Maldives.

One page required for entry stamp

Visitor visa available at the airport for stays up to 30 days

Required for entry if arriving from or transmitting through a yellow fever endemic country (see below)

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy colombo.

210 Galle Road, Colombo 03, Sri Lanka Telephone: +(94) (11) 202-8500 Fax: +(94) (11) 202-8590 [email protected] U.S. Embassy Maldives

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Maldives for information on U.S.-Maldives relations.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

A valid passport, along with an onward/return ticket and sufficient funds, is required for entry. A no-cost visitor visa valid for 30 days is issued upon arrival. A Traveler Health Declaration (THD) must be filled in and submitted by all travelers travelling to and from Maldives, within 96 hours prior to their travel. You may submit the form electronically .

The  Department of Immigration and Emigration  routinely approves requests for extension of stays up to 90 days for travelers who present evidence of sufficient funds and who stay in a resort/hotel or present a letter from a local sponsor. Anyone staying more than 60 days without proper authorization faces heavy fines and deportation.

Yellow fever vaccine is required for individuals above nine months of age who are traveling to Sri Lanka from a country designated by the World Health Organization (WHO) to have a risk of yellow fever transmission, including transit wait time of more than 12 hours in an airport located in such a country. For more information, please refer to WHO .

Visit the Republic of Maldives, Department of Immigration and Emigration for the most current visa information.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Maldives.

Find Information on  dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction and  customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism: Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

For more information, see our Terrorism page.

Crime: Maldives has a low crime rate and crime on resort islands is rare. Valuables may be stolen when left unattended on beaches or in hotels. The penalty for drug use or possession is severe.

Demonstrations  may take place in response to political or economic issues, but primarily take place in Malé or other larger cities and are unlikely to be noticed by tourists.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable, avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. 
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

  International Financial Scams:  See the Department of State and FBI pages for information.

Technology Usage Abroad: Mobiles devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and physical damage anywhere in the world. Best practices prior to traveling abroad are keeping all software (operating system and apps) updated, and use virtual private network and encrypted voice over IP (VoIP) applications if possible. Make sure that all VPN/VoIP are reputable, and U.S. based. Do not connect to unknown open Wi-Fi.

GPS Navigation Apps are helpful in getting U.S. citizens around in a foreign country. Prior to using the GPS app make sure you research the route to make sure it is safe. GPS navigation apps may give you the shortest route without safety consideration.

Be cautious of using dating apps/online dating websites abroad as U.S. citizens can be targeted by scammers. Make sure to inform your friends and family of your whereabouts, meet at a well-known public location, and do not consume suspicious food or drinks. Avoid traveling alone to bars or nightclubs.

Victims of Crime: U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy in Colombo for assistance.

Report crimes to the local police at 119 and contact the U.S. Embassy in Colombo at +94-11-202-8500. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care ;
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police;
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent;
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion;
• Provide a list of local attorneys;
• Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S. ;
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution;
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home; and
• Replace a stolen or lost passport .

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism: The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur at all tourist facilities. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

When transiting Maldives, travelers should ensure their luggage does not contain prohibited or restricted items, which include weapons, ammunition, alcohol, pornography, and religious material offensive to Islam, among other items. In some places, it is illegal to take pictures of certain buildings.

Religious Laws : Public observance of any religion other than Islam is prohibited. Religious gatherings such as Bible study groups are prohibited; however, a family unit may practice its religion, including Bible readings, within its residence. It is against the law to invite or encourage Maldivian citizens to attend these gatherings. Offenders may face jail sentences, expulsion, and/or fines. Although Maldivian law prohibits importing “idols for religious worship,” tourists traveling to the resort islands are generally allowed to bring in items and texts used for personal religious observances.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

LGBTQI+ Travelers:   The law prohibits same-sex sexual conduct. Under the penal code, the punishment for conviction includes up to eight years’ imprisonment and 100 lashes. None of the legal provisions prohibiting discrimination covers discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity and the law does not recognize LGBTQI+ individuals, couples, and their families. See our  LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities: While in Maldives, individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation very different from what you find in the United States. The Maldivian constitution provides for the rights and freedom from discrimination of persons with disabilities, and parliament passed a Disability Act in 2010. The new law requires public places such as supermarkets and parks to have facilities that will enable access for people with disabilities. Despite the law, most public places do not yet have access for the disabled, and implementation of the law may take some time.

Travelers: If you find yourself in a life-threatening situation, you should call the police immediately and follow up with a call to the U.S. Embassy in Colombo (+94-11-202-8500). We can sometimes connect you with a non-governmental organization in the Maldives that may be able to provide assistance. 

If you are victimized overseas, you may be entitled to receive compensation for counseling and/or other services such as relocation back to the United States. For further information, visit the U.S. Department of Justice's Office on Violence Against Women .

Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime committed in the Maldives.

See our tips for  Women Travelers . 

For Ambulance services in the Maldives, dial 102.

Ambulance services are not present throughout the country or are unreliable in most areas except Malé/Hulhumalé. Available ambulances are not staffed with trained paramedics and often have little or no medical equipment. Some inter-island sea ambulance service is available via the Maldivian Navy but does not serve the entire country.

We highly recommend that all travelers review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Travelers’ Health webpage and general Traveler Advice for Maldives.

• Review all sub-sections including the Travel Health Notices, Vaccines and Medicines, Non-Vaccine-Preventable Diseases, Stay Healthy and Safe, Healthy Travel Packing List, and After Your Trip.
• Reasons for Travel (for example: Adventure Travel, Spring Break Travel)
• Travelers with Special Considerations (for example: Allergies, Long-Term Travelers and Expatriates)
• and General Tips (for example: Traveling with Medications, Travel Vaccines)

The Department of State, U.S. embassies and U.S. consulates do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

The Department of State strongly recommends supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Medical Facilities: There are three large hospitals in the Malé area: ADK Hospital, Tree Top Hospital, and the government-run IGMH. Medical facilities outside Malé are limited. Hospitals and doctors typically require payment “up front” prior to service or admission. The availability of medical supplies is uneven and many common medications used in the United States are not available in Maldives; therefore, travelers should always carry any prescription medications with them.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Recommended vaccines that are specific to this region include Japanese encephalitis and typhoid (and rabies pre-exposure prophylaxis only if exposure to bats is anticipated).

Pharmaceuticals : Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with little controls. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments. Please visit U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the Maldives Ministry of Health to ensure the medication is legal in Maldives.

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassy and Consulates.

Water Quality : You should use ONLY boiled or bottled water for drinking, making ice, and for beverages.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Traffic Safety, Road and Aviation Conditions: While in Maldives, you may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. The information below concerning Maldives is provided for general reference only and may vary by location or circumstance. 

Only a few of the islands are large enough to support automobiles. Maldives has good safety standards for land, sea and air travel. Roads in Malé and on the airport island are brick and generally well-maintained, though congested. Dirt roads on resort islands are well-kept by the resorts. Transportation in Malé is either by foot, by bus, or by readily-available taxis that charge a fixed fee for any single journey. Transportation between the airport and Malé is by vehicle or by a public ferry. Travel to nearby resort islands is usually by motorized water taxi and speedboat or seaplane. Trans Maldivian and Maldivian Air Taxi provide charter seaplane service to outlying islands during daylight hours. Maldivian, Manta Air, and Villa Air run fixed-wing domestic service to some of the atolls with land runways during night hours as well. Many resorts stop boat transfers between the airport and the resort island after sunset. Visitors to distant resorts arriving in the country at night can expect to stay overnight at a hotel in Malé or at the airport hotel and should confirm transfer arrangements in advance. 

See our  Road Safety  page for more information. Visit the website of the Official Travel Guide of Maldives and national authority responsible for road safety.

Aviation Safety Oversight:  As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Maldives, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Maldives’ Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the FAA's safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to the Republic of Maldives should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

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Check passport expiration dates carefully for all travelers! Children’s passports are issued for 5 years, adult passports for 10 years.

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Maldives Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to the Maldives

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in enclosed environments and public transportation.

Maldives entry details and exceptions

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Can I travel to the Maldives from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the Maldives.

Can I travel to the Maldives if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter the Maldives without restrictions.

Can I travel to the Maldives without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter the Maldives without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter the Maldives?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering the Maldives.

Can I travel to the Maldives without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in the Maldives?

Mask usage in the Maldives is not required in enclosed environments and public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in the Maldives?

Restaurants in the Maldives are open. Bars in the Maldives are .

COVID-19 Updates - 27th June 2022

Travel restrictions, restrictive measures within maldives.

• State of Public Health Emergency declared from March 12, 2020
• Travel between resorts. safaris and inhabited islands restricted from March 12, 2020
• All excursion activities within Maldives banned from March 13, 2020
• Tourist check in to guest houses and city hotels in Greater Malé Region (Malé, Villimalé and Hulhumalé) suspended from March 14, 2020
• Tourist check in to guest houses and city hotels nationwide suspended from March 17, 2020
• All non-essential travel between islands restricted from April 17, 2020
• Resorts, hotels and liveaboards located in uninhabited islands are to resume operations on 15th July 2020
• Hotels and guest houses located in inhabited islands are to resume operations on 1st August 2020

MAP OF MALDIVES

The islands and resorts are naturally self-isolated.

IF YOU HAVE SYMPTOMS OF COVID-19 WHILE IN MALDIVES, CALL

• If a case of COVID-19 is identified in a tourist facility, procedures are set in place for the property to work with the government of Maldives to ensure safe return of unaffected tourists to their home country.
• The government of Maldives is closely monitoring and enforcing measures to prevent any effective community spread of the virus.

What are you looking for?

How do I get a visa for the Maldives?

Feb 9, 2024 • 3 min read

Don't let some admin hold you back from the vacation of a lifetime in the Maldives © skynesher / Getty Images

With its gleaming turquoise lagoons, bamboo-thatched overwater bungalows and sugar-white sands, the Maldives is one of the world’s most desirable beach destinations.

Every year, almost two million travelers touch down at Velana International Airport for the tropical trip of a lifetime. The last thing you want is to miss out on a vacation in paradise because you forgot to check visa requirements and, luckily, we're here to help.

Fortunately, the visa process is surprisingly easy. Whether you’re sticking to the local islands or zipping off to a private hideaway, here’s everything you need to know about visa requirements for the Maldives.

How to get a visa on arrival

Travelers from every country in the world can get a free 30-day tourist visa stamped into their passport when they arrive in the Maldives. Sounds too good to be true, right? Well, tourism is the largest sector of the Maldives' economy, so the government has tried to make it as easy as possible for vacationers to access these pristine islands.

To get your visa on arrival, you just need a follow a few key guidelines. Your passport must be machine-readable and valid for at least one month past your departure date, and you must show evidence of your return flight and hotel booking confirmation – the airline and immigration may ask for this information.

Official regulations state that you should be able to show proof that you have the funds to support your stay in the Maldives, but this is rarely requested from travelers with resort bookings. Be prepared that immigration officials may ask for evidence of cash or a bank statement – around US$100 per day of your stay should be sufficient. Any travelers arriving from countries where yellow fever is endemic must show a vaccination certificate upon arrival.

Every traveler needs to  complete an Imuga form 96 hours before both their arrival and departure flights. The digital form is free and requests basic information like a photo of your passport, flight number, duration of stay, where you’re staying and where you’re heading after the Maldives. Upon completion you'll get a QR code that you can store on your smartphone – it will be scanned by immigration at the airport.

What if I want to extend my visa?

Having too much fun in paradise? We don’t blame you. If you want to extend your 30-day tourist visa for an extra 60 days, giving you a total of 90 days in the Maldives, just talk to your resort or guesthouse. They will work with immigration on your behalf to arrange your visa extension.

The resort will let you know the documents you’ll need to renew your visa, including a full page in your passport, a recent passport-size photo, and confirmation of your stay and onward flight. The fee for extending your visa is Rf750. It’s recommended to start this process at least 10 days before your visa expires, but remember requirements are always subject to change.

Can I get a working holiday visa?

The Maldives does not offer working holiday visas. But if working on a small tropical island or aboard a boat in the Maldives sounds appealing, working visas are available if you can secure a job at one of the 180+ resorts or hotels. An approved Work Permit issued by the Ministry of Economic Development is required before applying for a Work Visa. From there, workers must meet requirements like having a passport valid for one year, a passport-sized photo, a medical health report, and all other necessary documents. Your employer will be able to guide you through the process.

This article was first published October 2021 and updated February 2024

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Maldives Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

There are no notices currently in effect for Maldives.

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to the Maldives.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to the Maldives.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

the Maldives is free of dog rabies. However, rabies may still be present in wildlife species, particularly bats. CDC recommends rabies vaccination before travel only for people working directly with wildlife. These people may include veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers working with specimens from mammalian species.

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥9 months old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites.

Chikungunya

• Mosquito bite
• Avoid Bug Bites
• Mosquito bite
• An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in the Maldives, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in the Maldives. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in the Maldives include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call the Maldives’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of the Maldives may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in the Maldives, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Traffic flows on the left side of the road in the Maldives.

• Always pay close attention to the flow of traffic, especially when crossing the street.
• LOOK RIGHT for approaching traffic.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Maldives for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Maldives travel advice

Latest updates: Health – editorial update

Last updated: March 13, 2024 14:05 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, maldives - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in the Maldives due to the threat of terrorism.

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There is a threat of terrorism. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time. Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and resorts, and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations may occur. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Gang related violence

Populated areas such as Malé and Hulhumale may experience gang-related violence. Remain vigilant.

Petty Crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs. Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times, especially on the beach.

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overseas fraud

Coastal waters can be dangerous. Riptides are common. Several drownings occur each year.

Rescue services may not be consistent with international standards. There have been several diving injuries due to poor equipment and poor compliance to safety standards by local dive operators.

Water safety abroad

Road safety

Only a few islands in the Maldives have the infrastructure for automobiles.

Maritime transportation

Most transportation is by boat or seaplane. Motorized water taxis (dhonis) provide transportation between the airport, Malé and nearby resort islands.

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Maldivian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry in the Maldives.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: required Business visa: required Student visa: required

You can get a 30-day tourist visa upon arrival. You can extend a tourist visa for a total stay of no more than 90 days.

To obtain a tourist visa, you must also show an onward or return ticket and proof of sufficient funds.

Departure tax

You must pay a departure tax of US$50 before boarding an international flight. However, this fee is usually included in the airfare.

Special permissions

You must obtain permission from Maldivian authorities to visit uninhabited islands and islands outside of the tourism zone.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from or have transited through an airport of a country   where yellow fever occurs.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.
• Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
• Contact a designated  Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre  well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that  country entry requirements  may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest  diplomatic or consular office  of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Travellers going to countries in South Asia should speak to a health care professional about getting vaccinated.

In this destination, rabies  may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. 

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife. 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Zika virus is a risk in this country. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

• Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
• Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. 

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

There are three hospitals in Malé that provide adequate service for routine medical problems. Some more isolated islands may be several hours away from medical facilities. You will likely need medical evacuation in case of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect life imprisonment.

It is illegal to import alcohol. Alcohol is available on resort islands. Travellers are advised not to take any alcohol outside of resorts.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

It is illegal to import weapons and ammunition.

It is illegal to export tortoise shell and coral.

Pornography

Possession of pornographic material is forbidden.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Maldivian laws prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Maldives.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dress and behaviour

To avoid offending local sensitivities:

• dress conservatively, especially outside major cities and coastal resorts
• behave discreetly
• respect religious and social traditions

In 2024, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around March 10.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, refrain from:

Religious proselytism

It is illegal to import non-Islamic religious materials or to promote religions other than Islam.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in the Maldives.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of the Maldives, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and the Maldives.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in the Maldives by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in the Maldives to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Traffic drives on the left. A local driving permit is required to drive in the Maldives. International driving licences are not permitted.

The currency is the rufiyaa (MVR). Major credit cards are accepted at resorts and hotels. You can exchange U.S. dollars at the airport, banks and hotels. ATMs accept certain foreign bank cards, however, they are only available in Malé and the more populated non-resort islands.

The Maldives are located in an active seismic zone and may be prone to earthquakes and tsunamis. A tsunami can occur within minutes of a nearby earthquake. However, the risk of tsunami can remain for several hours following the first tremor. If you’re staying on the coast, familiarize yourself with the region’s evacuation plans in the event of a tsunami warning. 

The rainy (monsoon) season extends from November to April in the northeast, and May to October in the southwest.

Keep informed of regional weather forecasts and plan accordingly.

Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

• police: 119 or +960-332-2111
• medical assistance: 102
• firefighters: 118

Consular assistance

There is no resident Canadian government office in Maldives. The High Commission of Canada in Sri Lanka, in Colombo, has consular responsibility for Maldives.

For emergency consular assistance, call the High Commission of Canada to Sri Lanka and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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Exercise a high degree of caution in Maldives due to the risk of civil unrest and the threat of terrorism.

Maldives (PDF 260.15 KB)

Asia (PDF 2.21 MB)

Local emergency contacts

General emergency, fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 102 or go directly to the hospital.

Call 3322111.

You can also call the tourist police on 979 0070.

Advice levels

Exercise a high degree of caution in Maldives.

Malé has frequent protests and demonstrations. There are Parliamentary Elections scheduled for 2024. Avoid affected area and follow the advice of local authorities. 

• Terrorism can occur anywhere at any time. Terrorists may target areas visited by tourists. Follow the advice of local officials.
• Drug-related crime and gang-related violence occurs in urban areas, including Malé. Petty theft happens on beaches and in hotel rooms. Leave your valuables in a secure location. Monitor local media to avoid trouble spots.
• The monsoon season is from mid-May to November. Strong winds, rough seas and torrential rain can occur. Tsunamis can also occur. Keep in contact with friends and family. Follow the advice of local authorities.
• The sea around Maldives can have strong tidal currents and rips. A number of tourists drown every year. There may not be safety information at beaches. Take appropriate precautions.

Full travel advice: Safety

• Insect-borne diseases are a risk, including dengue, Zika virus and chikungunya. Use tropical strength insect repellent.
• Hepatitis and rabies are also a risk. Boil drinking water or drink bottled water.
• Medical services, including emergency services and decompression chambers, are limited. It can take several hours to reach medical facilities. If you become seriously ill or injured, you'll need to be evacuated. This can be very expensive.

Full travel advice: Health

• Don't use or carry illegal drugs. Penalties for drug offences are severe and can include life imprisonment.
• Serious crimes, such as murder, can attract the death penalty.
• It's illegal to import or drink alcohol unless you're on a resort island.
• It's illegal to publicly observe any religion other than Islam. Don't import pornography or pork products. 
• Maldives recognises dual citizenship. 
• Standards of dress and behaviour are conservative in Malé and non-resort islands. Dress modestly in Malé and non-resort islands. Take care not to offend.

Full travel advice: Local laws

• You can get a tourist visa on arrival to Maldives, provided you meet all entry requirements. Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the  Department of Immigration and Emigration of the Republic of Maldives  for details about visas, currency, and customs.
• All travellers to Maldives must complete a  Traveller Declaration  within 96 hours before departure to and return from Maldives. 
• Airlines may require proof of certain vaccinations to travel. Check requirements with individual airlines prior to travel.
• Maldives may implement curfews, travel restrictions between islands, and entry restrictions at short notice. If you're in Maldives, follow the Maldivian tourism and health guidelines.
• The local currency is the Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR), though $US is accepted at most resort islands.
• You can change money and use ATMs in Malé and many larger islands. Take cash if you're travelling to other areas.

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter details what we can and can't do to help you overseas.
• Contact the Australian High Commission in Malé, Republic of Maldives for consular help.
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the High Commission's social media accounts.

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

Civil unrest and political tension.

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people may occur in Maldives and can turn violent. 

To stay safe during periods of unrest:

• avoid all protests and large public gatherings
• monitor the media for planned or possible unrest
• obey curfews and seek local advice on safety and security
• follow the instructions of security personnel and local authorities

More information:

Demonstrations and civil unrest

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Terrorism can occur anywhere in Maldives at any time. Possible targets include government institutions and tourist areas.

To reduce your risk of being involved in a terrorist attack:

• avoid crowded areas
• always be alert
• follow the advice of local authorities
• monitor the media and other sources

Since February 2020, there have been several terrorism offences, including a stabbing attack on three foreigners in Hulhumalé, where an Australian was injured. Other incidents include an arson attack on a police speedboat in Laamu Gan in March 2020 and the detonation of an improvised explosive device in Malé in May 2021, which injured a high-profile politician and bystanders.

Terrorist threats

Drug-related crime occurs in Malé and other cities in Maldives.

Gang-related violence, including knife crime, has increased in urban areas, including Malé and Hulhumalé.

There is an ongoing risk of petty crime in Maldives, including pickpocketing, bag snatching and other petty crimes. Be careful of theft in crowds and these locations:

• hotels and guesthouses

To protect yourself from petty theft:

• carry only what you need
• leave valuables, including your passport, in a secure location
• follow local media for new security risks
• avoid trouble spots

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Tours and adventure activities

Transport and tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards. This includes adventure activities, such as water sports.

If you plan to do an adventure activity :

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• check the operator credentials and safety equipment before you book
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Climate and natural disasters

The monsoon season is from mid-May to November. Strong winds, rough seas, torrential rain and flash flooding can happen.

If there is a natural disaster or severe weather :

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location or carry it on you at all times (in a waterproof bag)
• keep in contact with friends and family
• consult your tour operator about disruptions to your travel plans

Tsunamis can occur in Maldives. These are caused by nearby or distant earthquakes .

If you're near the coast, move immediately to high ground if advised by local authorities, or if you:

• feel a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand up
• feel a weak, rolling earthquake that lasts a minute or more
• see a sudden rise or fall in sea level
• hear loud and unusual noises from the sea

Don't wait for official warnings, such as alarms or sirens. Once on high ground, check local media.

Register with the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System to receive alerts on major disasters.

Travel Insurance

Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance .

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Maldives. Take enough legal medicine for your trip and consider bringing an extra supply in case your trip is unexpectedly extended.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medicine is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Health risks

Insect-borne diseases.

There is a risk of insect-borne diseases in Maldives. These include:

• chikungunya

Zika virus is a risk to pregnant women. Read the Australian Department of Health's Zika virus bulletin for advice on how to reduce your risk.

If you're pregnant:

• discuss travel plans with your doctor
• consider deferring non-essential travel to affected areas

To protect yourself against insect bites:

• ensure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use tropical strength mosquito and insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne and other diseases are common. These include:

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with intact seals
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid uncooked and undercooked food, such as salads

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Infectious diseases

Medical care

Hospital services, including rescue and emergency services, are limited.

There are two general hospitals in Malé. They offer general medical and some specialist services. The larger private hospital in Malé offers a wider range of services.

It can take several hours to reach a hospital from resort islands.

Facilities are limited for scuba-diving injuries. There are limited decompression chambers in Maldives. It may take several hours to reach these in an emergency. Dive within safety limits.

You may need to be evacuated if you become seriously ill or injured. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Penalties for carrying or using illegal drugs offences are severe and can include mandatory jail sentences and life imprisonment.

If you're caught with even a small amount of illegal drugs, you can be charged with trafficking. 

Carrying or using drugs

The death penalty can apply for serious crimes, such as murder.

In Maldives it's illegal to:

• import alcohol
• drink alcohol — unless you're on a resort island
• import pornography
• import pork products — see Maldives Customs

It is illegal to:

• publicly observe any religion other than Islam
• import non-Islamic religious material

LGBTI travellers

Same-sex sexual acts are illegal in Maldives.

Non-resorts islands

A permit is no longer required to visit a non-resort island.

Provided you have entered Maldives with a valid visa, you have permission to travel to any part of the country.

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

Maldives recognises dual nationality.

Dual nationals

Local customs

Dress and behaviour.

Standards of dress and behaviour are conservative in most parts of Maldives.

Dress modestly in Malé (covering shoulders and knees for women) and on non-resort islands.

Take care not to offend. Public displays of affection outside of resorts are likely to cause offence.

The Islamic holiday month of  Ramadan  is observed in Maldives. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws at this time.

During Ramadan, eating, drinking and smoking may be illegal in public during the day. If you're not fasting, avoid these activities around people who are. 

Resort islands generally don't need to follow the rules of Ramadan, though guesthouses on inhabited local islands will. Seek local advice to avoid offence.

Explore our Ramadan page to learn more, including dates for Ramadan.

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

You can get a tourist visa on arrival to Maldives, provided that you meet all entry requirements. Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the  Department of Immigration and Emigration of the Republic of Maldives  for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Border measures

Airlines may require proof of certain vaccinations to travel. Check requirements with individual airlines prior to travel. You must complete a  Traveller Declaration  form 96 hours before departure to and return from Maldives.

Tourists must have a confirmed booking at a registered tourist facility before entering Maldives. 

Other formalities

Yellow fever vaccination

You need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Maldives if you're coming from a country with a risk of yellow fever. Some airlines may want to see one when you leave.

Find out about returning to Australia after exposure to yellow fever .

Countries with a risk of yellow fever (PDF 151KB)

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible.

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with 'X’ gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing an 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

• LGBTI travellers  

The local currency is the Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR).

You can change money at resorts, though many will accept $US. You can also change money and use ATMs at banks in Malé and many larger islands.

Carry cash if you're travelling to other areas.

Most hotels and major tourist facilities accept credit cards.

Before you travel, ask your bank if your cards will work in Maldives.

Local travel

Travel between islands is by boat or seaplane.

Driving permit

To drive in Maldives, you'll need both:

• a valid International Driving Permit (IDP)
• a current Australian driver's licence

If you drive without an IDP, you may not be covered by your travel or vehicle insurance.

Road travel

There are few roads and vehicles in Maldives.

Road traffic accidents are common. Pedestrians and those travelling on motorcycles are at high risk of accidents. Follow road safety regulations and stay alert at all times.

Motorcycles

Check with your travel insurer to see if you're covered to use a motorbike.

Always wear a helmet.

Most helmets you can buy or rent in Maldives don't meet Australian standards.

Taxis and water taxis

Only use licensed taxis and limousines. Ask your hotel to arrange taxis.

Many resorts operate water taxis between the airport and other islands.

Always wear a life jacket, even if others don't.

Public transport

Public transport options are limited on land.

Ferries operate between major islands.

Contact your hotel for details.

Travelling by boat

Cruise ships and foreign flagged yachts arriving in Maldives must adhere to International Maritime Organisation (IMO) regulations and guidelines.

• Going on a cruise

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Maldives' air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular assistance, contact the Australian High Commission in Malé.

Australian High Commission, Malé

Level 5, JEN Maldives Malé

Ameer Ahmed Magu

Malé 20096, Republic of Maldives

Phone: +960 334 0080

Website:  Australian High Commission, Maldives

Facebook:   Australia in Maldives

Check the High Commission website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to Maldives?

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This lesser known European beach has the bluest water in the world

When picking the perfect locale for a beach vacation, travelers often seek out the bluest waters to frolic in and relax.

It’s no wonder why. Research shows that being near, in or under water offers a slew of benefits for our well-being . Blue spaces have a calming effect, helping to lower stress and anxiety and provide a respite to the over-stimulated states of mind we often find ourselves in. 

To help travelers pick their perfect beach with stunning blue water, London-based travel agency CV Villas conducted a study in March to find the beaches with the bluest waters, according to scientific color theory. To do this, the team analyzed the RGB color codes of unfiltered Google map images of 200 popular beaches worldwide to see how close they compare to the YInMn Blue, an intensely vibrant blue shade discovered in 2016. 

While most people imagine the most azure waters to be somewhere tropical like Maldives or Bora Bora, the research revealed that some of the bluest waters can be found in Europe, especially around Greece. (Nevertheless, travelers to the tropics will still find the water just as beautiful and relaxing.) 

“Not only does our research highlight the stunning coastal destinations that Europe has to offer, but it also reinforces the allure of lesser-known gems like Pasqyra Beach in Albania,” said Ben Briggs, CV Villas’ head of marketing, in a statement. “We hope that our study gives recognition to the natural beauty that lesser-known destinations can offer to travellers who are seeking an unforgettable seaside experience – and getting the chance to say they have officially swam in the world’s bluest water.”

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Here are the beaches with the bluest waters.

Itching for a beach vacation? Cheap airline tickets to nab this Spring and Summer

10. Los Lances Beach, Spain

With vast sandy areas and dunes, the sprawling Los Lances Beach is aptly located on the Costa de la Luz, meaning the Coast of Light, in southern Spain. Situated along the Atlantic Ocean, the beach’s waters are a clear, deep blue. On a clear day, beachgoers can spot the silhouette of Morocco in the distance. 

9. Ombros Gialos, Greece

On the Greek island of Sambros, Ombros Gialos Beach is ideal for adventurers as the hidden cove is only reachable by a winding road or boat. Although mostly rocky and sometimes with rough conditions, the small beach has a dock for swimmers or snorkelers to launch themselves into the bright turquoise sea. 

8. Praia do Carvalho, Portugal

Surrounded by dramatic golden cliffs and a rock formation out at sea, this quiet beach is beloved for its clear turquoise waters. To access the beach, visitors need to walk through a man-made tunnel and stairs, where a tranquil sandy beach awaits on the other side. 

7. Foki Beach, Greece

Situated on the Ionian island of Cephalonia, Foki Beach is named after the monk seals who used to frequent the beach. Flanked by olive and pine trees, the pebble beach features clear blue waters for swimmers and snorkelers. Visitors can meander around the beach via nearby trails. 

6. Voulisma Beach, Greece

Also known as Golden Beach, this crescent-shaped beach is one of the most popular destinations in eastern Crete. With soft white sand and calm azure water, beachgoers enjoy spending the entire day there, stopping at nearby snack stands or renting umbrellas for respite from the sun. 

5. Kaputa Beach, Turkey

As one of the most popular beaches along the Mediterranean coast of Turkey, Kaputa Beach is known for its gold sand and crystal clear waters. Nestled between two cliffs, the beach is only accessible by descending a steep flight of stairs that have been carved into the cliffside. Visitors can rent sunbeds and umbrellas to enjoy the beach.

4. Plage de la Verne, France

In the South of France's Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region, Plage de la Verne is a charming pebble cove on the Saint-Mandrier-sur-Mer peninsula. Visitors can reach the beach via a coastal path. With just a little space for beachgoers to relax under the sun, the water is beautifully blue but not very swimmable. 

3. Kassiopi Beach, Greece

Corfu’s Kassiopi Beach is a stunning bay with a white pebble beach and water so clear that people can see the fish right below the surface. Guests can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding or jet skiing, or wandering along a charming waterfront promenade with cafes and tavernas. 

2. Paralia Mpouka, Greece

Located on the Ionian Sea, Paralia Mpouka is a spacious resort-laden beach with stunning water in various shades of bright blue. It’s also a popular beach destination, where guests frolic in the shallow water, kayak or paddleboard. Once the wind picks up in the afternoon, the favorite beach pastime activity is windsurfing. 

1. Pasqyra Beach, Albania

Landing the top spot for the bluest water is Pasqyra Beach, or Mirror Beach. The beach earned its name for its crystal clear water reflecting the sun like a mirror. The coastline is known to be breathtaking, surrounded by rock formations and mountains. Visitors to the beach take a dirt road and descend a rocky path. While the water is beautiful, it’s known to get pretty crowded as the day goes on.

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

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There’s unlimited rail travel across France this summer for less than £50 – but not for everyone

The wheels are rolling for young people to explore the best of the gallic nation, article bookmarked.

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France have announced the launch of a nationwide rail pass this summer for unlimited rail travel at just €49 (£42) a month.

The unlimited travel will apply to all journeys taken on the country’s TER and Intercity trains , however, French transport minister Patrice Vergriete confirmed that only those age 27 or younger will be eligible for the discounted pass.

High-speed TGV trains and travel in France ’s most populous region, Ile-de-France – home of the capital, Paris – are both excluded from the rail offer and require an additional ticket.

The new pass is expected to go on sale in June.

French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed that “those under 27 can travel by train unlimitedly in France” on  X/Twitter . He added that the rail pass “becomes reality this summer” and asked: “Where would you go?”

The passes will be available to buy through SNCF Connect from June for young people to travel around France.

Vergriete said the Ministry of Transport estimates 700,000 young people will benefit from the low-cost travel using the rail pass this summer.

In 2020 and 2021, a summer rail pass temporarily existed for young people under 27 to travel in France for €29 (£24.87) a month.

The rail pass for 2024 is based on a similar scheme in Germany by the national operator Deutsche Bahn that runs without an age limit. The Deutschland Ticket allows travel by all means of local public transport for €49 per month.

Funding 80 per cent of measures to introduce the pass is expected to cost the government around €15 million, with individual regions responsible for footing the remaining 20 per cent of the bill.

The decision to introduce an age cap to the national rail pass and exclude the Ile-de-France area was met with disappointment from several of the French regions.

Criticism from the Hauts-de-France region said that though the rail pass was “favourable”, the Minister for Transport “lacked ambition” by introducing a discounted pass only for young people.

The president of the Normandy region, Hervé Morin, said: “If there must be a rail pass, it must be national and apply to the entire French network and must not exclude the Ile-de-France network through which most young people inexorably pass when going to another region by train.”

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