The Business Visa Regulation has been amended such that applications for the Business Visa has to be submitted to the Ministry of Economic Development via the ministry’s Business Portal.
Previously, foreign nationals arriving in the Maldives for business purposes could request business visas at the Immigration counter after arrival in the Maldives. However, the process has now been revised such that the application has to be submitted directly to the Economic MInistry's designated portal. The amendment was gazetted by the ministry on Thursday.
The new Business Visa Regulation published on August 25 states that visas can be issued to business visa applicants only with the approval of the Registrar of Business. Those who meet the eligibility criteria will receive the visa permit within 10 days of application. The visa for approved applicants will be issued by the Controller of Immigration, and a fee of MVR 750 will be charged.
Maldives Immigration said the new visa process would eliminate fraudulent applications for business visas as the documents now required for visa processing will ensure the validity of the business visas. The visas will be canceled if it is found that the information given is not true.
Business Visa is a temporary multiple-entry visa issued to a foreign national intending to stay in the Maldives for business purposes, and are issued for a period of 30 to 90 days. The visa may be extended by 30 days if the total number of days in the country does not exceed 90 days. If a visa is canceled for violations, the individual may not apply for a visa for five years. Maldives Immigration may deport those who overstay their visa.
