Maldives and Azerbaijan introduce mutual visa-free travel for ordinary passport holders

The agreement builds on an existing visa exemption for diplomatic and official passport holders in place since June 2025

Maldivian citizens holding ordinary passports can now travel to Azerbaijan without a visa for stays of up to 90 days, following the entry into force of a mutual visa exemption agreement. According to a press release posted on the Maldives Ministry of Foreign Affairs website, the agreement took effect on April 29, 2026.

The two countries signed the visa exemption agreement for ordinary passport holders on September 24, 2025. It builds on an earlier arrangement covering diplomatic and official passports, which has been in place since June 18, 2025.

What Maldivian travelers need to know

Under the agreement, Maldivians can enter and stay in Azerbaijan for a maximum of 90 days from the date of entry without applying for a visa in advance.

However, those who wish to stay longer or who plan to work, attend an educational institution, or conduct business in Azerbaijan will still need to obtain the appropriate visa before traveling.

A milestone for visa-free travel

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the agreement as a significant milestone in the government's broader efforts to secure visa-free travel for all Maldivian nationals.