Work Visa (Standard Employment) for Maldives.
Mid-career professionals with a job offer and relevant qualifications
Freelancers without employer sponsorship or those without recognised qualifications
Cannot convert tourist visa to work permit - must leave and re-enter. Permit tied to specific employer. Pre-departure course mandatory from 2026. Skills Pass required for hospitality/construction/care sectors from October 2025.
At a Glance
Eligibility Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Age Range | 18+ |
| Education Required | High school diploma |
| Profession Required | No |
| Experience Required | 2 years in field |
| Job Offer Required | Yes |
| Sponsorship Required | Yes |
| Language Required | English (A2) |
| License / Recognition Required | Yes |
| Remote Income Allowed | No |
| Business Activity Required | No |
| Health Insurance Required | Yes |
| Proof of Funds Required | Yes |
| Can Apply From Abroad | Yes |
Financial Requirements
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Minimum Salary | €21,000/year |
| Application Fee | €280 |
| Est. Total Relocation Cost | €3,500 |
Application Timeline
Family & Rights
| Right | Details |
|---|---|
| Family Allowed | Yes |
| Spouse Can Work | No |
| Children Allowed | Yes |
| Work Rights | full |
| Renewable | Yes |
| Time to Citizenship | 5 years |
Related Pathways
Cost of Living
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Work Visa (Standard Employment)?
Work Visa (Standard Employment) for Maldives.
Who is the Work Visa (Standard Employment) best for?
This pathway is best suited for: Mid-career professionals with a job offer and relevant qualifications.
Who should not apply for the Work Visa (Standard Employment)?
This pathway is not ideal for: Freelancers without employer sponsorship or those without recognised qualifications.
What are the financial requirements for the Work Visa (Standard Employment)?
Applicants need minimum salary of €21,000/year. Additional costs may include the application fee and relocation expenses.
How long does it take to process the Work Visa (Standard Employment)?
Processing typically takes 3 to 15 days. Times may vary based on nationality, completeness of documentation, and current processing volumes.
Can I bring my family on the Work Visa (Standard Employment)?
Yes, this pathway allows family members including dependents.
Can the Work Visa (Standard Employment) lead to permanent residency or citizenship?
Yes. Holders of this visa can work toward citizenship in approximately 5 years, subject to meeting residence and other conditions.
What are the known issues with the Work Visa (Standard Employment)?
Known issues and warnings: Cannot convert tourist visa to work permit - must leave and re-enter. Permit tied to specific employer. Pre-departure course mandatory from 2026. Skills Pass required for hospitality/construction/care sectors from October 2025.. We recommend checking the official source for the latest updates.
Are there alternative pathways to Maldives?
Yes. Maldives offers 1 other immigration pathway. Compare all options on our Maldives country page.
What is the cost of living in Maldives?
Monthly costs for a single person in city center: Malé: €2,249/month; Hulhumalé: €2,039/month; Addu City: €1,827/month. These include rent, groceries, transport, and utilities.
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Get Your Free VerdictOfficial source: https://www.immigration.gov.mv/work-visa/