Maldives and Seychelles start 30 day visa exemption for passport holders
A reciprocal short-stay exemption between two island states
The Maldives,Seychelles visa exemption agreement entered into force May 15, allowing nationals of either country to enter the other without a visa for stays of up to 30 days. The deal was signed June 12, 2023, but only took effect this month.
Seychelles officials describe the arrangement as covering tourism, short business trips and family visits. It doesn't grant work rights or replace any long-stay permit in either jurisdiction.
Who benefits from the new rule
The exemption applies only to Maldivian and Seychellois passport holders. Citizens of both countries can now skip the visa-on-arrival paperwork that previously applied to short visits.
Third-country nationals, including most expats and digital nomads based in either country, see no direct change. They continue under existing rules: the Maldives grants a free 30-day visa on arrival to most nationalities and Seychelles issues a Visitor's Permit on arrival rather than a pre-trip visa.
Maldivian and Seychellois remote workers gain the most flexibility, with easier short hops between the two Indian Ocean hubs for workations, client meetings or scouting trips.
What travelers still need at the border
Even with no visa required, standard entry conditions apply for both directions:
- Valid passport
- Return or onward ticket
- Proof of accommodation
- Evidence of sufficient funds
For stays beyond 30 days or any remote-work arrangement, longer permits remain mandatory. Seychelles continues to run its Visitors Workcation Permit, which allows stays from one month up to one year for remote workers and business owners. The permit carries a one-time fee of roughly $46, including health travel authorization and requires proof of remote income, insurance, accommodation and an onward ticket.
The Maldives has no dedicated digital nomad visa, so remote workers staying past the 30-day window must apply for an extension or shift to a work or business permit category.
Neither government has indicated plans to expand the exemption to third-country nationals or to lengthen the 30-day cap. For the latest visa updates, check official immigration channels before booking.
Read our full Maldives guide for the complete picture.
Frequently asked questions
Who can use the new Maldives and Seychelles visa exemption?
How long can Maldivians and Seychellois stay in each other’s country without a visa?
What documents are needed at the border for visa-free entry?
Does the 30-day visa exemption allow remote work in the Maldives or Seychelles?
What permit do remote workers need in Seychelles?
What happens if a remote worker stays past 30 days in the Maldives?
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