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Maldives Immigration

Resident Visa
Service

A Resident Visa is granted to a foreign national married to a Maldivian citizen, allowing them to reside in the Maldives. Travellers coming to marry/register their marriage must be sponsored before arrival, then complete legal marriage registration and apply for a Marriage Visa within the given timeframe. If already in the Maldives on another visa, transfer to Marriage Visa after registration.

Resident Visa illustration

Resident Visa Requirements and Process

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Overview

A Resident Visa is granted to a foreign national married to a Maldivian citizen, permitting residence in the Maldives.

Before Arrival (Sponsorship)

  • Foreigners coming to marry a Maldivian or to register their marriage must be sponsored before arrival.
  • Submit a Sponsorship Declaration via the IMUGA portal.

After Arrival

  • Complete the legal marriage registration process.
  • Apply for a Marriage Visa within the given timeframe.
  • If already in the Maldives on another visa, apply for a visa transfer after registration.

Documents Required

  1. Application Form (IM23) stamped by the Family Court
  2. Passport copy (biodata page)
  3. Last arrival stamp (for first-time arrivals)
  4. Last visa page (for those already residing in the Maldives)
  5. Marriage Certificate (copy)
  6. Maldivian spouse’s ID card (copy)
  7. Passport-size photo (per Immigration standards)
  8. Medical report (first-time applicants only)
  9. Health insurance (first-time applicants only)
  10. Additional documents (if applicable)

How to Apply

  1. Visit imuga.immigration.gov.mv
  2. Select “Visa”
  3. Sign in to the IMUGA portal
  4. Click “Apply for a Visa”
  5. Complete the prerequisite field to confirm whether you are currently in the Maldives
  6. Select visa type: “Resident Visa” and choose the appropriate reason/subtype
  7. Fill in the application details
  8. Attach required documents
  9. Review and submit the application

Validity & Extensions

  • Initial Marriage Visa validity: 1 year.
  • Renewals: up to 5 years.
  • Apply for extensions via IMUGA within 3 months before expiry.

Important Notes & Fees

  • After approval, you will receive an SMS notification with an appointment time to submit the passport.
  • Visa card fee: MVR 50.

updated: 23/09/2025