Dreaming of crystal-blue waters, sunshine, and a job in paradise? If you’re looking to work in one of the world’s most exotic locations, now is the perfect time. The Maldives has rolled out a revamped Work Visa application system for 2025, making it easier and more efficient for foreign nationals to start their employment journey in the archipelago.
This update is thrilling news for hospitality workers, resort managers, dive instructors, construction professionals, and countless others whose skills are in high demand across the Maldivian islands. Let’s break down what’s new, what you need, and how to apply—step by step.
What’s New in the Maldives Work Visa 2025?
- 15-Day Window: Employers must obtain a Work Visa for foreign employees within 15 days of their arrival on a valid Work Permit.
- Xpat Online System: Say goodbye to paperwork chaos! All applications are now centralized through the Xpat Online Portal at workpermit.egov.mv.
- Faster Approvals & Appointments: Real-time appointment booking and token-based submission via the Ant Queue app.
- Strict Enforcement: No foreigner can leave the Maldives without a valid visa stamped in their passport—ensuring compliance and protection for all workers.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a Maldives Work Visa
Step 1 – Log in to Xpat Portal Visit workpermit.egov.mv and sign in. Search for the employee using their Work Permit number or passport number.
Step 2 – Initiate the Work Visa Request: Under the ‘Visa’ tab, select ‘New Work Visa’, match the duration to the issued Work Permit, upload documents, and hit submit.
Documents Required:
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- Passport-size photo (as per Maldives Immigration standards)
- Passport biodata page copy
Step 3 – If Application is Incomplete: The employer can log back into the Xpat system to check the reason for rejection. Fix the issues, re-upload documents, and resubmit.
Booking Your Appointment for Passport Submission
Once your Work Visa is approved:
- Click ‘Ready for Submission’ in the Work Visa tab
- Select the passport, click ‘Request Appointment’
- Choose your location, time slot, and date
- Confirm your booking
- On the date of appointment, use the Ant Queue App to take a token (8:15 AM – 10:30 AM)
Note: Missed appointments must be rescheduled in the Xpat system.
Passport Collection Process
Once your Maldives work visa has been approved and fully processed, the status in the Xpat system will update to “Ready for Collection.” At this point, you’ll need to use the Ant Queue App to secure your token for passport pickup. Tokens for collection are available between 8:15 AM and 10:30 AM.
If you’re collecting five or fewer passports, head to the collection center at 8:15 AM. For six or more passports, your collection window begins at 1:00 PM. It’s essential to arrive on time and follow the token system—missed tokens cannot be reused, and no service will be provided unless urgency is verified in advance via email.
Why the Maldives?
With a booming tourism economy, a stable political environment, and opportunities in resort operations, marine services, and construction, the Maldives is attracting skilled workers from all over the globe. The 2025 update brings greater transparency, structure, and speed to the work visa process.
Whether you’re chasing career growth, sunlit skies, or the adventure of island living, Maldives Work Visa 2025 is your gateway to paradise.