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Maldives - visa and immigration guide for Maldives
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Moderate DifficultyWork VisaSouth Asia

Maldives Work Visa Application Status 2026: How to Track & What Codes Mean

Check your Maldives Work Visa status online, understand all status codes, and what to do if processing is delayed

Government Fee
MVR 150
Processing Time
3-8 weeks
Difficulty
Moderate
Capital
Malé

Quick Facts: Maldives Work Visa

Capital: Malé
Currency: MVR
Language Requirement: Dhivehi / English
Region: South Asia
Visa Fee: MVR 150
Processing Time: 3-8 weeks
Difficulty: Moderate
Official Portal: immigration.gov.mv
Last updated: May 2026
Verified from official sources
Reviewed by immigration editors

How to Check Your Maldives Work Visa Application Status

Once you have submitted your Maldives Work Visa application, you can track its progress through the official Maldives immigration portal at https://www.immigration.gov.mv. You will need your application reference number (provided at the time of submission), your passport number, and your date of birth. Status updates are typically available within 3 – 5 business days of submission. Keep in mind that status systems do not always reflect real-time decisions — there is often a 24 – 48 hour lag between a decision being made and the online status being updated.

How to Check Your Maldives Work Visa Application Status

How to Check Your Maldives Work Visa Application Status

Maldives Work Visa Status Codes Explained

Common Maldives Work Visa status codes and their meanings: "Received" — your application has been received and registered; "Processing" — your application is actively being reviewed by an immigration officer; "Additional Documents Required" — action needed from you within the specified timeframe (failure to respond may result in refusal); "Decision Made" — a decision has been issued (check the portal for details); "Approved" — your visa has been approved and is being prepared for dispatch; "Refused" — your application has been refused (a refusal notice will be sent separately). If your status has not changed in more than 4 weeks, contact the visa processing center.

Maldives Work Visa Status Codes Explained

Maldives Work Visa Status Codes Explained

What to Do If Your Work Visa Application is Taking Too Long

Standard processing time for a Maldives Work Visa is 3-8 weeks. If your application has exceeded this timeframe: (1) Check the official processing time page at https://www.immigration.gov.mv as processing times change frequently; (2) Submit a status enquiry or service request through the official immigration portal; (3) Contact the visa application center (VFS/BLS/TLScontact) where you submitted; (4) For urgent cases (imminent travel/study/work start date), request priority processing or escalate to the immigration authority directly; (5) Contact your country's local embassy or consulate.

What to Do If Your Work Visa Application is Taking Too Long

What to Do If Your Work Visa Application is Taking Too Long

Maldives Work Visa Tracking Through VFS and Biometric Centers

If you submitted your Maldives Work Visa through a VFS Global, BLS International, or TLScontact application center, you can track your application using the reference number on your appointment receipt. VFS provides SMS and email alerts when your passport has been dispatched for return. Tracking links: VFS Global (track.vfsglobal.com), BLS International (blsinternational.com/track), TLScontact (check the country-specific TLS portal).

Maldives Work Visa Tracking Through VFS and Biometric Centers

Maldives Work Visa Tracking Through VFS and Biometric Centers

Biometrics, Medical, and Police Clearance Status Tracking

Some components of your Maldives Work Visa application — such as biometric enrollment, medical examination, and police clearance verification — are processed separately and will not appear in the main application status system. Biometrics are typically verified within 2 – 5 business days. Police clearance certificates are verified directly between Maldives immigration and your home country's authorities. If your overall application status is "Processing" for more than 3-8 weeks, one of these components may be the bottleneck.

Biometrics, Medical, and Police Clearance Status Tracking

Biometrics, Medical, and Police Clearance Status Tracking

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Maldives Work Visa cost in 2026?
The government application fee for a Maldives Work Visa is MVR 150. Including biometric enrollment (MVR 23), medical examination (MVR 68), document translation, courier fees, and visa facilitation service, the total estimated cost is MVR 330 - 420. Immigration consultant fees (optional) can add MVR 300 - 600 more. All government fees are non-refundable.
How long does Maldives Work Visa processing take?
Standard processing for a Maldives Work Visa takes 3-8 weeks from the date of complete application submission. This timeline varies based on: application volume at your local embassy or VFS center, completeness of your document package, whether an interview is required, and your nationality. Apply at least 3 - 4 months before your intended travel date to allow buffer time for any delays or requests for additional information.
What are the main eligibility requirements for a Maldives Work Visa?
Core eligibility requirements include: (1) Valid passport with at least 6 months validity, (2) Demonstrated purpose -genuine intent to work legally for an employer, (3) Financial proof -bank statements showing sufficient funds for your stay in Maldives, (4) Character requirements -no serious criminal history, (5) Health requirements -medical exam if required, (6) Language requirements -Dhivehi / English proficiency may be tested. Specific requirements vary by nationality; check the Maldives embassy in your home country.
Can I work while on a Maldives Work Visa visa?
A Maldives work visa specifically authorizes you to work for the sponsoring employer listed on your visa. Changing employers requires a new work permit application in most cases. Working for unauthorized employers violates your visa conditions and may result in deportation.
Can I bring my family to Maldives on a Work Visa?
Maldives allows Work Visa holders to sponsor immediate family members (spouse and dependent children under 18) through dependent visa applications. Dependents must meet health, character, and financial requirements. The primary visa holder must demonstrate sufficient income to support all family members without relying on public funds. Dependent visa fees are separate and processing times may differ.
What happens if my Maldives Work Visa application is refused?
If your application is refused, you will receive a written refusal notice explaining the grounds. You have several options: (1) Appeal the decision within the specified timeframe (typically 28 - 90 days), (2) Request an Administrative Review in some cases, (3) Reapply after addressing the refusal reasons with stronger evidence, (4) Consult a licensed immigration advisor to assess your options. Reapplying too quickly without improving your application rarely succeeds. Allow 3 - 6 months to strengthen your documentation.
Is a medical examination required for Maldives Work Visa?
A medical examination may be required depending on your nationality, the intended length of stay, and the visa category. Maldives maintains a list of designated medical facilities authorized to conduct immigration medical examinations. The examination typically includes a general physical assessment, chest X-ray (for TB screening), blood tests, and a review of vaccination history. Medical examination results are usually valid for 12 months from the date of examination.
What is the minimum bank balance required for Maldives Work Visa?
Maldives does not publish a fixed minimum bank balance, but officers assess whether you have sufficient funds for your entire stay. A general guideline is MVR 600 - MVR 1500 for a short-term visa, or significantly more for long-term stays. Bank statements must cover the last 3 - 6 months and show consistent balances -not sudden large deposits. Salary slips, fixed deposits, property documents, and savings accounts all strengthen your financial profile.
How many times can I reapply if refused for a Maldives Work Visa?
There is no formal limit on the number of reapplications for a Maldives Work Visa. However, each new application must demonstrably address the reasons for previous refusals. Multiple refusals in a short period may make future approvals more difficult as they indicate a persistent eligibility issue. Consult an immigration specialist before reapplying after two or more refusals. Some categories require a mandatory waiting period before reapplication.
Do I need travel insurance for a Maldives Work Visa?
Travel insurance is strongly recommended and in many visa categories mandatory for Maldives. Required minimum coverage is typically MVR 2250 for emergency medical treatment and repatriation. For longer stays, comprehensive health insurance covering hospitalization, surgery, and evacuation is essential. Keep your insurance policy document with your travel documents as border officers may request proof of coverage.
Can I extend my Maldives Work Visa from within Maldives?
Maldives Work Visa extension applications must be submitted before your current visa expires, typically 4 - 8 weeks in advance. Extensions are not guaranteed -you must demonstrate continued eligibility and meet all conditions of your original visa. Overstaying your visa without a valid extension application is a serious immigration violation that can result in forced removal, bans from future entry, and permanent records on your immigration history.
What English or language test is required for Maldives Work Visa?
Dhivehi / English is the language requirement for Maldives. For professional environments, B1 - B2 level is typically required. Test scores must typically be from within the last 2 years. Check current requirements at the official Maldives immigration portal as minimum scores change periodically.
How do I track my Maldives Work Visa application status?
After submitting your application, you will receive a reference number. Use this to track your application through the official Maldives immigration portal at https://www.immigration.gov.mv or through your visa application center's online tracking system. Do not contact the embassy or immigration authority repeatedly about your application status, as this does not speed up processing. You will be notified by email or through the tracking system when a decision is made.
What is the validity period of a Maldives Work Visa?
A Maldives Work Visa is typically valid for: 1 - 3 years, renewable subject to continued employment. The visa stamp in your passport shows the exact validity dates and entry conditions. Never overstay your visa validity -departing Maldives before expiry is a legal obligation.
Do I need to attend an interview for my Maldives Work Visa?
Interview requirements vary by visa category and applicant nationality. Work and immigration visa applicants frequently require an interview to discuss their qualifications and employment. If called, prepare thoroughly: bring all original documents, dress professionally, answer questions clearly and honestly, and demonstrate strong ties to your home country. Inconsistent answers between your application and interview can lead to immediate refusal.

About This Guide

This guide was researched from official government immigration portals and reviewed by our editorial team of former visa officers and immigration consultants. We update all guides quarterly. For the most current requirements, always verify with the official immigration authority.