How to Work in the Maldives — Complete Guide for Foreign Workers (2026)

Can foreigners work legally in the Maldives?

Yes — with an approved work permit linked to a real employer on xpat.egov.mv. Tourist visas, visit visas, and student visas do not allow work. If someone asks you to fly on a tourist visa and work on a resort, that is illegal.

The legal pathway in plain language

Find a licensed vacancy → sign contract matching job order → pay initial processing fees (itemised) → medical + insurance → permit approval → fly to Velana → employer pickup → island induction.

• Licensed agent in Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, India, Nepal, Philippines, or Indonesia
• Passport valid 6+ months
• Police clearance (attested per corridor)
• Pre-employment medical certificate
• Insurance policy number on file
• Work permit before boarding for employment

What you should never pay for without proof

A job that cannot show employer name on Xpat. An agent who refuses BMET/SLBFE/POEA/DOFE licence numbers. A contract salary below the job order band advertised.

Corridor guides

Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, India, Nepal, Philippines, Indonesia, and Maldivian contract staff each have embassy and emigration differences — read your country guide on recruitment.com.mv/guides.

Apply through ATID

Create a worker profile on https://recruitment.com.mv, upload passport and CV, and apply only to jobs where your corridor flag is open. Initial fees display line-by-line before you submit bank reference.