What documents are needed to travel to the Maldives?
A trip to the Maldives needs few documents, but each one has a rule. Here is a checklist for the border and the airport: what Maldives Immigration asks for, the free online declaration, the cash you must declare and what not to pack.
The documents to carry
- Your passport, valid for at least one month, with a machine-readable zone. Children need their own passport.
- The confirmation of your IMUGA traveller declaration, saved on your phone or printed.
- A confirmed, prepaid booking at a registered guesthouse or hotel.
- Confirmed return or onward tickets.
- Proof that you have enough money for the stay.
- A yellow fever vaccination certificate, only if you have recently been in a risk country.
- Travel insurance. It is not on the list of entry requirements we found, but we recommend it.
Russian citizens need no visa for a tourist stay of up to 90 days. We explain this in a separate article.
At the border and in customs
- A complete set of documents does not guarantee entry: the immigration officer at the port decides.
- All incoming passengers and baggage can be inspected by Customs.
- Currency and monetary instruments worth USD 10,000 or more, in any currency, must be declared to Customs, and the circular says the declaration can be submitted online on the Customs website.
- Vapes, e-cigarettes and related devices are totally prohibited on arrival. Alcohol, pork products and some other items need a permit or licence.
Getting from Malé airport to Thoddoo
- The speedboat leaves Malé airport at 16:00 every day except Friday and costs USD 35 per person each way.
- The seaplane flies on Thursdays and Saturdays.
- Our team meets guests at the Thoddoo pier, and the transfer from the pier to the guesthouse is free. Send us your arrival details in advance.
Frequently asked questions
What documents do I need for the Maldives?
A passport valid for at least one month, a confirmed booking, return tickets, proof of funds and the free IMUGA traveller declaration. A yellow fever certificate is needed only if you recently visited a risk country.
How long must my passport be valid?
At least one month, with a machine-readable zone, according to Maldives Immigration. Airlines may ask for more.
Do I need a printed declaration?
The declaration is completed online. Keep the confirmation on your phone or print it.
Do I need to declare cash?
Yes, if it is USD 10,000 or more in any currency.
Do I need travel insurance?
We did not find it among the entry requirements, but we recommend it.
Reviewed by the Relax Residence team in October 2026.
