Get Your Maldives Dual Citizenship – Learn How to Apply
Let us make your citizenship journey simpler. With step-by-step guides and our AI assistant to help you understand eligibility, we give you clarity, confidence, and support every step of the way.
Eligibility Overview
- By Birth: Citizenship is granted to individuals born in the Maldives to at least one Maldivian parent.
- By Descent: Children born abroad to a Maldivian father or mother typically qualify for citizenship, subject to registration requirements.
- By Marriage : Foreign spouses of Maldivian citizens may apply for naturalization after meeting residency and integration requirements.
- By Naturalization: Foreigners may apply for citizenship after 12 years of residence, good character, and Islamic faith (required).
- Special Exception – Dual Citizenship Not Officially Allowed (But Often Tolerated): Maldivian law does not explicitly permit dual citizenship, but in practice, authorities do not always enforce revocation when a citizen acquires another nationality.
Note: Although some Maldivians hold dual citizenship, there is no legal guarantee of recognition. Applicants are advised to consult legal counsel before pursuing dual status.
Step-by-Step Process
- Determine your eligibility (by descent, marriage, or residence).
- Apply through the Maldives Immigration Department or Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
- Submit documents proving identity, residence, and faith (if naturalizing).
- Attend an interview and await government approval.
Benefits of Maldivian Citizenship
- Live and work anywhere in the Maldives
- Own land and access public services
- Apply for a Maldivian passport
- Pass citizenship to your children
Maldives
The Maldives is an island nation in the Indian Ocean comprising over 1,000 coral islands grouped into 26 atolls, renowned as one of the world's premier luxury tourism destinations for its overwater bungalows, pristine beaches, and extraordinary marine biodiversity. It is the lowest-lying country in the world, with an average ground elevation of just 1.5 meters above sea level, making it one of the nations most existentially threatened by rising seas due to climate change. The Maldives has the highest concentration of five-star resorts per capita of any country on Earth.
- Capital: Malé
- Language(s): Dhivehi
- Currency: Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR)
Frequently asked questions.
Does Maldives allow dual citizenship?
Officially, no. The Constitution does not permit dual citizenship, but enforcement is inconsistent. Some Maldivians hold a second nationality without consequence.
What happens if I acquire another citizenship?
You may not automatically lose your Maldivian citizenship, but the government reserves the right to revoke it. Outcomes vary case by case.
Can a foreign spouse apply for citizenship?
Yes. A foreign spouse can apply through naturalization after meeting residency and integration criteria, though approval is discretionary.
Do I need to be Muslim to naturalize?
Yes. Maldivian nationality law requires all naturalized citizens to be Muslim. This is a non-negotiable requirement.
Do I have to pay taxes in Maldives if I become a citizen?
Maldives does not impose a personal income tax on local or foreign income for individuals. Tax obligations may arise through business or tourism sectors.