About Maldives
Maldives
An archipelago of over 1,190 coral islands in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives offers a unique residency-by-investment pathway in one of the world’s most exclusive tropical destinations, combining pristine natural beauty with emerging opportunities for global investors.
Country Overview
The Maldives is a sovereign island nation in South Asia renowned globally as a premier luxury tourism destination. The country has developed a residency-by-investment pathway enabling foreign nationals to obtain long-term residency through qualifying business establishment or property investment. Its tourism-driven economy, strategic Indian Ocean location, and zero personal income tax regime make the Maldives an increasingly attractive option for high-net-worth individuals seeking both lifestyle quality and investment returns.
Country Information
Strategic Advantages
Why Maldives
Premier Tourism Economy
The Maldives attracts over 1.8 million visitors annually, creating a robust and growing hospitality sector with world-class resort infrastructure and strong returns on tourism-related investments.
Zero Personal Income Tax
The Maldives imposes no personal income tax, no capital gains tax, and no withholding tax on individuals, creating one of the most favorable fiscal environments for international residents and investors.
Exclusive Lifestyle Destination
Residency in the Maldives provides access to an unparalleled island lifestyle with crystal-clear waters, world-class diving, and a tranquil environment favored by ultra-high-net-worth individuals worldwide.
Strategic Indian Ocean Location
Positioned at the crossroads of major shipping lanes between Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, the Maldives offers strategic geographic advantages for trade-oriented and logistics-focused investors.
An Introduction to Maldives
The Republic of Maldives is an archipelagic nation comprising 26 atolls and over 1,190 coral islands, of which approximately 200 are inhabited. Located in the Indian Ocean southwest of Sri Lanka and India, the country stretches across roughly 90,000 square kilometers of ocean, making it one of the most geographically dispersed nations on earth. Despite its small land area, the Maldives has established itself as one of the premier luxury tourism destinations in the world.
The Maldivian economy is predominantly driven by tourism, which accounts for approximately 28 percent of GDP and over 60 percent of foreign exchange receipts. The country hosts more than 160 luxury resort properties across its atolls, attracting affluent travelers from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Fishing remains the second-largest economic sector, with tuna exports representing a significant portion of trade revenue.
In recent years, the Maldivian government has introduced initiatives to attract foreign investment and long-term residents. The residency-by-investment pathway allows foreign nationals to obtain residency through qualifying investments in approved real estate or tourism projects, representing a significant shift in policy that has opened the islands to international property ownership and long-term settlement.
The country operates as a presidential republic with a legal system based on Islamic law and common law principles. English is widely spoken alongside Dhivehi, the national language, facilitating business operations for international investors. The Maldives maintains diplomatic relations with countries worldwide and is a member of the United Nations, the Commonwealth, and the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation.
At a Glance
Key Facts
1,190+
Coral Islands
Spread across 26 natural atolls in the Indian Ocean, forming one of the most unique geographies in the world
1.8M+
Annual Tourists
A thriving tourism industry that continues to grow year over year, driven by luxury resort development
88
Visa-Free Destinations
Maldivian passport holders enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to approximately 88 countries worldwide
0%
Personal Income Tax
No personal income tax, capital gains tax, or withholding tax for individual residents in the Maldives
28%
GDP from Tourism
Tourism is the backbone of the Maldivian economy, generating substantial revenue and employment opportunities
160+
Luxury Resorts
World-renowned resort properties operated by leading international hospitality brands across the atolls
Investment Pathways
Available Programs
Residency by Investment
Maldives Business and Property Investment Residency
The Maldives residency-by-investment pathway allows foreign nationals to obtain long-term residency through qualifying business establishment or property investment in designated tourism and development zones. Applicants benefit from access to the growing Maldivian economy, a zero personal income tax regime, and an exceptional island lifestyle.
Explore program —→Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I obtain residency in the Maldives through investment?
Foreign nationals can obtain residency in the Maldives through business investment or property acquisition in designated zones. The government offers long-term residence permits to investors who establish qualifying businesses in the tourism, hospitality, or related sectors. Specific investment thresholds and requirements vary depending on the pathway and location of the investment.
What are the tax implications of residency in the Maldives?
The Maldives does not impose personal income tax on individuals. There is no capital gains tax, inheritance tax, or wealth tax. The primary taxes applicable to businesses include a goods and services tax (GST) and a business profit tax. This favorable tax environment makes the Maldives an attractive destination for investors seeking tax-efficient residency.
Can my family be included in a Maldives residency application?
Yes, qualifying investors can include their spouse and dependent children in their residency application. Family members receive the same residency status and are entitled to reside in the Maldives for the duration of the permit. Additional documentation and background checks are required for all included dependents.
What is the quality of life like in the Maldives?
The Maldives offers an exceptional quality of life characterized by pristine natural environments, world-class resort amenities, and a relaxed island lifestyle. The capital Male provides modern urban conveniences including international schools, healthcare facilities, and commercial services. Connectivity has improved significantly with new airport developments and high-speed ferry networks linking the atolls.
Is it possible to obtain Maldivian citizenship through investment?
Maldivian citizenship is not directly available through investment. The residency-by-investment pathway provides long-term residence permits that can be renewed. Naturalization as a Maldivian citizen requires extended residence, knowledge of Dhivehi, and adherence to specific legal requirements. Prospective applicants should consult with qualified advisors regarding the full naturalization pathway and its requirements.
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Specialist Services
How we work in Maldives
Residence by Investment
Residence-permit advisory for Maldives and other qualifying jurisdictions.
Learn more →Citizenship by Investment
Programmes leading to a second passport, including options relevant to Maldives.
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Curated qualifying properties in Maldives and 21 other markets.
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