Prohibited Items

It is prohibited for tourists to bring firearms, alcoholic beverages, pork products, pornography and idols of worship into the Maldives. Additionally, strict penalties apply to those attempting to bring illegal drugs into the country. Alcohol and pork products are only available on resort islands under a special license.

Tobacco Products

From 01 November 2024: the Maldives Customs Service will no longer allow duty allowance on tobacco products, including cigarettes, cigars, and tobacco.  Maldives is a signatory to health conventions that do not encourage exceptions for tobacco products.

Only travellers on a tourist visa are permitted to import limited quantities of tobacco products as follows:  Up to 200 cigarettes, or 25 cigars, or 250 grams of tobacco.

Quantities exceeding these limits will be retained by Customs for a maximum of 30 days.  Tourists can collect these items at the departure terminal at Velana International Airport (VIA) customs prior to their departure.

Additionally, any tobacco products brought in by non-tourist travellers that do not meet the Ministry of Health’s labelling requirements will be confiscated by customs.

Vaping Products

From 15 November 2024: a ban on the import of vaporizer devices, accessories, and parts will come into effect, including those brought by visitors for personal use.

From 15 December 2024: the ban will extend to the possession, use, manufacturing, sale, promotion, and free distribution of vaporizer devices.   This applies to both residents and visitors across the country.

Tourists are not allowed to bring vaporizers into Maldives.  However, if you arrive with a vaporizer device, you will not be penalized or denied entry. Your vaporizer will be confiscated at the border and a customs officer will provide you with a receipt which you must present when you depart the country to have your items returned to you.

Medication

Most medication can be carried with you when entering the Maldives provided that you show a doctor's prescription, and  the amount you are carrying does not exceed your requirements for the duration of your stay in the Maldives.

However, as regulations occasionally change, please check with the Customs Service that your medication is permitted in the Maldives.

Photography and Diving Equipment

If you are bringing in a lot of photographic or diving equipment it is advisable to inform your resort of the details prior to your arrival. Otherwise provide a list with details about the equipment (serial numbers and so forth), to avoid delay at the airport upon arrival.

Any items left behind will be liable for import duty.

Customs Service

For further clarification on what items can be brought into the Maldives, please contact the Maldives Customs Service:

Maldives Customs Service
Boduthakurufaanu Magu
Maafannu, Male'

Telephone: 00960 3322001
Fax: 00960 3322633
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