The Maldives Embassy in India serves as the primary diplomatic mission representing the Republic of Maldives and its interests in the country.
It plays a crucial role in facilitating consular services, fostering bilateral relations, and assisting Maldivian citizens residing in or visiting India.
Maldives Embassy in India Details
The Maldives Embassy in India is located in the capital city of New Delhi. The address is:
B-16, Vasant Marg, Vasant Vihar
New Delhi – 110057, India
Contact Information
- Phone: +91-11-41435701, +91-11-41435708
- Fax: +91-11-41435709
- Email: [email protected], [email protected]
- Website: www.maldiveshighcom.in
Working Hours
The Maldives Embassy in New Delhi operates from Monday to Friday, with the following working hours:
- 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM
- 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
The embassy remains closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays observed in India and the Maldives.
Map and Directions
The Maldives Embassy is situated in the Vasant Vihar area of New Delhi, approximately 6.26 km from the city center.
It is easily accessible by various modes of transportation, including taxis, public buses, and the Delhi Metro.
Services Offered by the Maldives Embassy
The Maldives Embassy in India provides a range of services to Maldivian citizens, Indian nationals, and foreign residents in India. These services include:
Visa Services
- Tourist Visa: The embassy facilitates the issuance of tourist visas for Indian citizens planning to visit the Maldives for leisure purposes.
- Business Visa: Indian nationals seeking to travel to the Maldives for business purposes can apply for a business visa through the embassy.
- Employment Visa: The embassy assists in the processing of employment visas for Indian nationals who have secured jobs in the Maldives.
- Dependent Visa: Family members of Maldivian citizens or foreign nationals working in the Maldives can apply for a dependent visa through the embassy.
Passport Services for Maldivian Citizens
The embassy provides passport-related services to Maldivian citizens residing in or visiting India, including:
- Issuance of new passports
- Renewal of expired passports
- Replacement of lost or damaged passports
Attestation and Legalization of Documents
The Maldives Embassy in India offers document attestation and legalization services for various purposes, such as:
- Educational certificates and transcripts
- Birth, marriage, and death certificates
- Power of Attorney documents
- Commercial and legal documents
Consular Services and Assistance
The embassy extends consular assistance to Maldivian citizens in India, including:
- Assistance in case of emergencies, accidents, or legal issues
- Notarization of documents
- Registration of births, marriages, and deaths
- Issuance of travel documents for repatriation
Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens
Indian citizens do not require a visa to travel to the Maldives for tourism purposes for stays up to 90 days. However, they must meet the following requirements:
- Hold a valid passport with at least 6 months validity from the date of entry into the Maldives
- Possess a confirmed return or onward ticket
- Have sufficient funds to cover their stay in the Maldives
- Provide proof of accommodation booking
- Carry a travel itinerary
- Hold valid travel insurance
Key Points:
- No visa required for Indian citizens for stays up to 90 days
- Passport validity of at least 6 months
- Confirmed return or onward ticket
- Proof of accommodation and funds
- Travel itinerary and insurance
Consular Jurisdiction
The Maldives Embassy in New Delhi has consular jurisdiction over the entire territory of India.
It is responsible for providing consular services to Maldivian citizens residing or traveling within the country.
Currently, the Maldives does not have any other consulates or honorary consuls operating in India.
Recent Updates and News
- In February 2021, the Minister of External Affairs of India, Dr. S. Jaishankar, paid an official visit to the Maldives, further strengthening the bilateral ties between the two countries.
- The Maldives Embassy in India has been actively involved in facilitating the repatriation of Maldivian citizens stranded in India due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
- The embassy has issued advisories and guidelines for Maldivian citizens in India regarding travel restrictions and safety measures during the pandemic.
Visiting the Embassy
If you need to visit the Maldives Embassy in New Delhi in person, it is advisable to follow these guidelines:
- Make an appointment in advance, if possible, to ensure availability and avoid long waiting times.
- Carry all necessary documents and identification papers.
- Dress appropriately and follow any dress code requirements specified by the embassy.
- Be respectful and courteous when interacting with embassy staff.
Key Points:
- Make an appointment in advance
- Carry necessary documents and identification
- Follow dress code requirements
- Be respectful and courteous
History of India – Maldives Relations
India and the Maldives have enjoyed close and friendly relations since the Maldives gained independence in 1965.
The two countries share strong cultural, economic, and strategic ties, with India being one of the closest partners of the Maldives.
The Maldives Embassy in India plays a vital role in strengthening these bilateral relations and facilitating cooperation in various areas, including trade, tourism, education, and defense.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do Indian citizens need a visa to visit the Maldives?
No, Indian citizens do not require a visa to visit the Maldives for tourism purposes for stays up to 90 days. However, they must meet certain entry requirements, such as having a valid passport, confirmed return or onward ticket, and proof of accommodation and funds.
2. How can I apply for a Maldives visa as an Indian citizen?
Indian citizens do not need to apply for a visa in advance. They will be granted a visa on arrival at the Maldives airport upon meeting the entry requirements.
3. What documents are required for an Indian citizen to obtain a Maldives visa on arrival?
The required documents include a valid passport with at least 6 months validity, confirmed return or onward ticket, proof of accommodation booking, travel itinerary, and sufficient funds to cover the stay in the Maldives.
4. Can I extend my stay in the Maldives as an Indian citizen?
Yes, Indian citizens can extend their stay in the Maldives beyond the initial 90 days by applying for an extension at the Department of Immigration and Emigration in the Maldives.
5. How can I get my documents attested by the Maldives Embassy in India?
You can visit the Maldives Embassy in New Delhi with the required documents and request attestation services. It is advisable to make an appointment in advance and check the embassy’s requirements for document attestation.
Remember, the information provided in this article is subject to change, and it is always recommended to check the official website or contact the Maldives Embassy in India for the most up-to-date information and guidelines.
