Blog
How to Apply for Passport in Maldives
How to Apply for a Passport in Maldives: A Step-by-Step Guide
Let’s be honest—nothing says “adventure” quite like holding a brand-new passport in your hands. Whether you are a student heading abroad for the first time or a business traveler frequenting Dubai or Colombo, getting your travel documents in order is the first big step. Luckily, the days of standing in long queues at the Maldives Immigration office are mostly over.
In this guide, we are going to walk you through exactly how to apply for a passport in the Maldives. We will cover the documents you need, the costs involved, and how to use the online portal like a pro. By the end of this, you’ll be ready to click ‘submit’ with total confidence.
1. Understanding the Types of Passports
Before you start your application, you need to know what you are applying for. In the Maldives, we primarily deal with the Electronic Passport (e-Passport). These come in two main versions for ordinary citizens:
- 32-Page Passport: Perfect for the occasional traveler or someone who only goes abroad once or twice a year.
- 64-Page Passport: If you are a frequent flyer, this is for you. It costs a bit more but saves you from having to renew it early because you ran out of stamp space.
2. What Documents Do You Need?
Preparation is the key to a smooth application. If you have these ready on your phone or computer, the process takes less than 15 minutes. You will need:
- A Digital Photo: This is where most people fail. It must be a high-quality digital photo that meets Maldives Immigration Photo Standards. It should be recent (last 6 months), with a white background, and no “filtering.”
- National ID Card: A clear scan of both sides of your valid Maldivian National ID card.
- Previous Passport: If you are renewing, you’ll need to upload the data page of your old passport.
- Parental Consent: If the applicant is under 18, you will need a signed consent form from a legal guardian.
3. Step-by-Step: Using the IMUGA Portal
The Maldives has moved almost everything to the IMUGA portal. It’s a “handy” system once you get the hang of it. Here is the play-by-play:
Step 1: Account Creation
Visit the IMUGA Portal and log in using your eFaas account. If you don’t have eFaas yet, you really should get it—it makes all Maldivian government services ten times easier.
Step 2: Filling the Form
Select “Passport Application” and choose whether you are applying for a “New Passport” or “Renewal.” Be very careful with your name spelling; it must match your ID card exactly. One wrong letter can lead to a rejection and a headache for your travel plans.
Step 3: Uploading the Photo
This is the “make or break” moment. The system uses AI to check your photo. Ensure there are no shadows on your face and your eyes are clearly visible. Pro-tip: Go to a professional studio in Male’ or Hulhumale’ and ask for a “Digital Passport Photo”—they will email you a file that is already the right size and resolution.
4. Passport Fees: How Much Does it Cost?
Money matters. As of now, the fees are quite standard. You can pay via the portal using any local bank card (BML or MIB).
| Passport Type | Validity | Price (MVR) |
|---|---|---|
| 32-Page Electronic | 5 Years | MVR 1,000 |
| 64-Page Electronic | 5 Years | MVR 1,500 |
| Emergency Passport (Non-Electronic) | 1 Year | MVR 300 |
5. Collection and Processing Time
Usually, it takes about 2 to 5 working days to process a passport. You will receive a text message (SMS) when your passport is ready for collection. Unlike the application, you (or a legal guardian) MUST go in person to collect it at the Maldives Immigration office (Velaanaage) for fingerprint verification.
Handy Tip: If you are applying because your passport was lost or stolen, the process is different. You must report it to the police first and get a police report before Immigration will even look at your application.
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I apply for a passport if I am abroad?
Yes! You can still use the IMUGA portal, but you will need to coordinate with the nearest Maldivian Embassy or High Commission for the collection process.
What if my ID card is expired?
You cannot apply for a passport with an expired ID card. You must renew your ID card at DNR first. For more on this, check out our guide on renewing Maldivian ID cards.
Do babies need their own passport?
Absolutely. Every individual, even a newborn, needs their own passport to travel out of the Maldives.
Summary
Applying for a passport in the Maldives is now a digital-first experience. As long as you have a great photo and a valid ID card, you can get it done while sitting on your sofa. Keep your IMUGA credentials safe, and always double-check your application before hitting submit. Safe travels!