If you’re planning to live in the Maldives with your Maldivian spouse, obtaining a Maldives marriage visa is a legal requirement. This visa allows foreign nationals married to Maldivian citizens to reside legally in the country. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about applying for a Maldives marriage visa, including requirements, documents, and application steps.
Learn more about: Maldives Visa: Maldives Entry Requirements
Before Arrival
Before entering the Maldives for marriage or registering your marriage, foreign nationals must have a Maldives marriage visa sponsor. This is a critical step that needs to be completed online. You or your local sponsor must submit a Sponsorship Declaration through the official IMUGA portal before arrival.
After Arrival
Once you are in the Maldives, the first step is completing the legal marriage registration with the Family Court. After registration, you must apply for the Maldives marriage visa within the timeframe allowed by the authorities. If you entered the country on a tourist or other visa, you will need to transfer to a Maldives marriage visa after registration is complete.
Required Documents for Maldives Marriage Visa
To apply for the Maldives marriage visa, prepare the following essential documents:
- Application Form (IM23) – must be stamped by the Family Court
- Copy of passport biodata page
- Last arrival stamp – required for first-time applicants
- Last visa page – for those already residing in the Maldives
- Marriage certificate (copy)
- Copy of Maldivian spouse’s ID card
- Passport-size photo – must meet Maldives Immigration standards
- Medical report – mandatory for first-time applicants
- Health insurance policy – required for new applications
- Additional documents – if requested by immigration
How to Apply for Maldives Marriage Visa Online
Follow these steps to submit your Maldives marriage visa application online via the IMUGA portal:
- Visit imuga.immigration.gov.mv
- Select ‘Visa’
- Sign in to the IMUGA portal
- Click on ‘Apply for a Visa’
- Confirm your presence in the Maldives by answering the prerequisite
- Select visa type: ‘Resident Visa’, and subtype: ‘Marriage Visa’
- Complete the application details
- Upload all required documents
- Review your application and submit
Once approved, you will receive an SMS with the date and time to submit your passport for visa processing.
Maldives Marriage Visa Validity and Fees
Understanding the cost and duration of your Maldives marriage visa is important:
- Visa card fee: MVR 50
- Initial validity: 1 year
- Renewal: Up to 5 years
- Apply for extensions at least 3 months before your visa expires
Applying for a marriage visa is a straightforward process if you follow the steps and submit the required documentation on time. Whether you’re marrying a Maldivian citizen or already married and living in the country, securing this visa ensures you can legally reside together in this beautiful island nation.
For a smooth experience, always apply with the guidance of the IMUGA portal and stay updated with any changes in visa regulations.
