Maldives Embassy in India

About Maldives

The Republic of Maldives is a tropical nation in the Indian Ocean, south of Sri Lanka and India. It comprises 1,192 coral islands spread across 26 atolls, covering an area of approximately 300 square kilometres. Its capital, Malé, has a population of around 528,492. The Maldives's economy is primarily driven by tourism, fishing, and a growing services sector. The country is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, vibrant tourism industry, and unique marine biodiversity.

The following points highlight some critical characteristics of this island nation:

• Relations with India: The bilateral relations between the two nations have remained constant throughout changes in the leadership or government, which is an essential feature of their relationship.
• Tourism Opportunities: According to the October 2024 statistics from the Maldivian Ministry of Tourism, India was the sixth largest contributor to its tourism sector with 97,049 visitors. Some of the best places to visit in the Maldives include Malé's vibrant markets, Maafushi's local culture, and the pristine beaches of Hulhumale.
• Expats in India and Vice Versa: It is estimated that about 80,000 Maldivians visit India annually, with the average Maldivian spending at least USD 1,600 (INR 1.35 lakh). They primarily travel to Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Kerala and the closest Indian city to access medical and educational facilities. There were a total of 27,000 Indians living in the Maldives till June 2024.
• Visa Requirements for Indian Visitors: Indian citizens are exempt from the visa requirement for visits to the Maldives for tourism purposes, provided their stay does not exceed 90 days*. To qualify for this exemption, Indian nationals must possess a valid passport or travel document, an accommodation booking, and proof of sufficient funds to support their stay.
• Ease of commute: Public and private islands in the Maldives are easily accessible on foot. It is to be noted that taxis are also available throughout the major islands. You can even travel by a bicycle, bus, ferry, speedboat, or seaplane.

*Note: The exemptions are subject to change at the time of travel. Please confirm once from the official sources.

Difference Between Embassy and Consulate

A more seamless Maldives visa application process requires an understanding of the distinctions between the diplomatic posts:

• Embassy: An embassy is the principal diplomatic post in a foreign nation headed by an ambassador. It encourages political, economic, and cultural exchanges between the home and host countries and oversees diplomatic connections.
• Consulate: A consulate is a smaller diplomatic establishment located in major cities that caters to the citizens of the home nation. Typically, a consul general oversees each consulate and oversees services, including passport renewals, citizen assistance, and visa assistance.

When can You Contact the Maldives Embassy/Consulates?

Knowing when to contact the Maldives Embassy in India will encourage cordial interactions. The embassy contains offices offering vital services to Indian and Maldivian citizens.

How to Contact the Maldives Embassy/Consulate

The Maldives Embassy and Consulates in India's address, phone number, and business hours are included in the following table:

Indian Embassy in Maldives

For Indian nationals living in or visiting the Maldives, the Indian Embassy serves as the primary diplomatic hub. It offers various services, such as emergency support, legal help, passport renewal, and visa processing.

The following table provides crucial contact information for the Indian Embassy in the Maldives:

Emergency Contact

For emergencies, the embassy has a 24-hour helpline at +960 736 1452, which is especially useful for Indian nationals who are in trouble on holidays and outside of regular business hours. This service is meant for emergencies like mishaps, document loss, or legal support.

Key Services

• Crisis Response: In times of great need, such as disasters or acts of terrorism, the embassy may provide much-needed support. Expert teams may be sent out, local authorities may be consulted, evacuation services may be offered, and transportation for Indian citizens may be arranged.
• Financial Assistance and Repatriation: Depending on the gravity of the situation and the relevant regulations, the embassy may offer financial assistance or repatriation assistance to distressed Indian nationals.
• Coordination with Local Authorities: In a medical emergency, civil unrest, or legal issues, the embassy works with Maldives authorities to assist its nationals. If an Indian national is in custody, they might also help with consular access.

How is Maldives Travel Insurance Helpful?

Maldives travel insurance for Indians offers coverage for medical emergencies, trip disruptions, lost baggage, flight delays, third-party liability, lost passports, and protection against theft or unforeseen events.

• Medical Emergencies and Evacuation: Hospitalisation, mishaps, and illnesses that occur while travelling are covered by travel insurance. In extreme circumstances, it covers repatriation to your nation of origin or emergency evacuation to an appropriate facility if necessary.
• Trip Cancellations and Interruptions: It makes up for unforeseen delays and cancellations. Along with helping you recoup pre-paid costs, travel insurance also covers disruptions brought on by personal circumstances, inclement weather, or medical issues.
• Lost Baggage and Personal Property: This minimises hassle by covering critical things and lost or stolen baggage. For urgent situations, some travel insurance policies additionally pay for delayed baggage.
• Support for Emergency Assistance and Documentation: Travel insurance provides round-the-clock hotline services for legal, medical, or safety concerns. It also works with embassies to restore misplaced travel papers, such as passports.