Question 1

How many countries can Maldives passport holders visit visa-free in 2026?

Accepted Answer

Maldives passport holders have visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to approximately 160 destinations worldwide in 2026. Of these, 120 countries grant full visa-free entry, and 40 offer visa-on-arrival for Maldives citizens. Always verify the latest entry requirements as bilateral visa policies change regularly.

Question 2

What is the Maldives passport ranking in 2026?

Accepted Answer

Based on the number of destinations accessible without a pre-arranged visa, the Maldives passport ranks approximately #30 globally in 2026. The ranking is fluid and updated quarterly by major passport indices including Henley Passport Index and Arton Capital Passport Index.

Question 3

Is the Maldives passport strong or weak?

Accepted Answer

The Maldives passport offers access to 160 destinations without a prior visa (including VOA). With 60 additional e-visa countries, Maldives passport holders can travel to 220 destinations with minimal pre-travel visa arrangements. Compared to the world average of ~80 visa-free destinations, the Maldives passport is stronger than average.

Question 4

Can Maldives passport holders travel to Europe without a visa?

Accepted Answer

Access to European countries (Schengen Area) depends on the bilateral agreements between Maldives and individual EU member states. Many nationalities require a Schengen visa to visit Europe. Check the specific requirements for Maldives passport holders at the embassy of the destination EU country.

Question 5

Can Maldives citizens travel to the USA without a visa?

Accepted Answer

Whether Maldives passport holders can travel to the USA visa-free depends on whether Maldives participates in the US Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Non-VWP countries require a US visitor visa (B1/B2). Check the current US VWP country list at the US State Department's official website.

Question 6

Can Maldives passport holders get a UK visa easily?

Accepted Answer

Maldives citizens require a UK Standard Visitor Visa for tourism and short visits. The difficulty of obtaining a UK visa for Maldives passport holders is influenced by financial proof, travel history, ties to Maldives, and purpose of visit. UK visitor visa fees are £115 (as of 2026).

Question 7

Which countries offer e-visa for Maldives passport holders?

Accepted Answer

Approximately 60 countries offer electronic visa (e-visa) facilities to Maldives citizens, allowing online application and approval before travel. Popular e-visa destinations for Maldives citizens typically include countries in South Asia and Southeast Asia. Check individual country immigration websites for current e-visa availability.

Question 8

How can Maldives citizens strengthen their travel document?

Accepted Answer

Maldives citizens cannot change the passport itself, but can strengthen their visa application profiles by: (1) Building a strong travel history with visas to powerful countries, (2) Maintaining a clean immigration record (no overstays), (3) Demonstrating financial stability, (4) Renewing the passport regularly to ensure maximum validity.

Question 9

How do I renew my Maldives passport?

Accepted Answer

Maldives passport renewal is handled by the Maldives immigration or passport authority (check https://www.immigration.gov.mv). Typically requires: current passport, renewal application form, passport photos, payment of renewal fee, and proof of citizenship. Renewable from Maldives embassies abroad for overseas residents.

Question 10

Can Maldives citizens have dual nationality?

Accepted Answer

Whether Maldives permits dual nationality depends on its citizenship laws. If Maldives allows dual citizenship, nationals may hold a second passport which can provide additional travel freedom. Consult the Maldives Citizenship Act or a legal expert for current dual nationality rules.

Question 11

Which regions are easiest for Maldives passport holders to visit?

Accepted Answer

Maldives passport holders generally have the easiest access to other South Asia countries, which often have regional mobility agreements. Countries in Southeast Asia and parts of Africa also tend to offer visa-on-arrival or e-visa to a wide range of nationalities. Check per-destination requirements before booking.

Question 12

What is the Global Passport Power Rank for Maldives?

Accepted Answer

The Henley Passport Index ranks Maldives approximately #30 globally based on visa-free access to 160 destinations. The Arton Capital Nomad Passport Index considers additional factors including freedom of movement and dual citizenship rights, yielding a slightly different ranking.

Question 13

Can I travel to Canada with a Maldives passport?

Accepted Answer

Most non-Canadian passport holders need a Canadian visitor visa (Temporary Resident Visa) or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to visit Canada. Whether Maldives citizens need a visa or eTA depends on the current Canada–Maldives bilateral agreement. Check at ircc.canada.ca.

Question 14

How long is a Maldives passport valid?

Accepted Answer

Maldives passports are typically valid for 5–10 years for adults and 5 years for children, depending on the type issued. It is recommended to have at least 6 months of remaining validity beyond your intended travel date, as many countries require this.

Question 15

Can Maldives passport holders visit Australia without a visa?

Accepted Answer

Most Maldives citizens require an Australian visitor visa (subclass 600) or an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA, subclass 601) to visit Australia. ETA availability depends on whether Maldives is on Australia's ETA-eligible country list. Apply at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au.

Question 16

Is the Maldives passport improving or declining in power?

Accepted Answer

Passport power is dynamic. Maldives's passport strength is affected by: (1) New bilateral visa-free agreements, (2) Changes in international relations, (3) Global passport index methodology updates. Monitor official sources like Henley & Partners and the IATA Travel Centre for the most current rankings.

Question 17

Can Maldives passport holders visit Japan or South Korea without a visa?

Accepted Answer

Japan and South Korea have bilateral visa agreements with many countries. Whether Maldives passport holders can visit visa-free depends on the current Japan-Maldives and Korea-Maldives treaties. Check Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Korea's Korea Visa Portal for current requirements.

Question 18

What is the process for getting a second passport for Maldives citizens?

Accepted Answer

Maldives citizens may be eligible for a second passport through: (1) Citizenship by descent (if eligible through ancestry), (2) Citizenship by investment programs in countries like Malta, St. Kitts, Dominica, or Portugal Golden Visa, (3) Naturalisation after long-term legal residency in another country. Each path has different timelines and costs.

Question 19

Can Maldives citizens use their passport as ID within the country?

Accepted Answer

Yes — a Maldives passport is a primary identity document within the country. However, the passport should be kept secure to prevent loss or damage, which would affect your ability to travel internationally. A national identity card or driver's license is often recommended for daily domestic use.

Question 20

How does the Maldives passport compare to other South Asia passports?

Accepted Answer

Within South Asia, Maldives ranks approximately #20–#40 by visa-free access. Compare passports side-by-side using our Country Comparison tool to see which South Asia passport offers the best global mobility.

Access Category	Estimated Countries	What It Means
🟢Visa-Free Entry	120	No visa needed — present passport at border
🟡Visa on Arrival (VOA)	40	Obtain visa stamp at airport on arrival
🔵Electronic Visa (e-Visa)	60	Apply online before travel; no embassy visit
🔴Visa Required (pre-arranged)	-25	Must apply at embassy before travelling
Total World Countries	195	UN-recognised sovereign states

Maldives Passport Power 2026

Maldives Passport Power Index 2026: Complete Guide

Explore the World with Maldives Travel Document

Maldives Passport: World Access Breakdown 2026

Maldives Key Facts

Compare: South Asia Passport Rankings

Maldives Passport: 20 Expert FAQs (2026)

Explore Visa Options for Maldives Citizens

Maximise Your Maldives Passport