MALDIVES INVESTMENT AND RESIDENCY PROGRAMS

The Maldives, an archipelago nation comprising more than 1,200 coral islands, presents distinctive opportunities for international investors pursuing alternative residency options. This tropical destination combines exceptional natural landscapes, political stability, and pro-business legislation, creating an appealing investment environment with beneficial tax structures and special economic zones.

Current Investment-Based Residency Landscape

The Maldives has undergone significant transformation in its investment migration programs throughout 2024-2025. The country now operates multiple distinct programs targeting different investor categories, marking a shift from its previously limited options to a more comprehensive approach under President Muizzu's Vision 2040 economic diversification strategy.

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The existing Corporate Residence Visa remains operational under Regulation No. 115/2021, though it faces eventual replacement by newer programs. This five-year renewable visa offers three qualification pathways:

Business Investment Route: USD 1 million investment in a Maldivian business over three years, requiring 50% local employment and demonstrating minimum annual revenue of USD 100,000

Fixed Bank Deposit: USD 250,000 deposit maintained at a Maldivian bank for five years minimum

Government-Approved Projects: USD 250,000 investment in approved development projects


Corporate Residence Visa Program

Launched in September 2024, this program targets ultra-high-net-worth individuals with significantly higher investment thresholds:

Direct Investment: USD 50 million or more in Maldivian ventures

Bank Deposit: USD 1 million minimum held for two years at a local institution

Real Estate Investment: USD 1 million in approved projects in designated areas including Gaafaru, Fushidhiggaru, and Ras Mala in Kaafu Atoll

This program provides access to an exclusive "privileged elite club" with special benefits and streamlined services.


New Investor Residency Program (2024)

Donation supporting artistic production, recovery, or maintenance of national cultural heritage through qualified public entities or private foundations with public utility status. This represents the lowest investment threshold among Golden Visa options and appeals to investors passionate about preserving Portugal's rich cultural legacy. Projects may include historic monument restoration, museum development, or support for traditional Portuguese arts and crafts. The cultural heritage pathway offers investors the opportunity to leave a lasting positive impact on Portuguese society while securing EU residency.

New Real Estate Focused Program (2025)

Citizenship Pathway: The Maldives' constitution directly states that "a non-Muslim may not become a citizen of the Maldives," making a path to citizenship unlikely for many investors. The programs offer residency benefits but do not provide direct pathways to citizenship.

Recent Regulatory Changes: As of April 2025, entry to the Maldives is banned for Israeli passport holders, and enhanced due diligence requirements apply across all programs.

Processing Efficiency: The Corporate Resident Visa offers potential same-day processing, significantly faster than comparable programs in other jurisdictions.

Investment Environment: The programs support the government's goal to attract USD 6 billion in foreign investment over five years while maintaining strict eligibility requirements, including clean criminal backgrounds and compliance with foreign investment regulations.

CURRENT PATHWAY TO CITIZENSHIP

Navigating the Maldives' evolving investment migration landscape requires expertise in both regulatory compliance and strategic positioning. Clients trust Interluxe Capital to provide comprehensive guidance through these complex programs, from initial eligibility assessment to successful residency approval. Our deep understanding of the regulatory framework, established relationships with key stakeholders, and proven track record in high-net-worth client services ensures seamless execution of investment strategies across all three program tiers.

Why Clients Trust Interluxe Capital