Travellers now need an email code to complete the IMUGA arrival declaration

Maldives Immigration has added an extra step to the Traveller Declaration that foreign visitors complete on the IMUGA portal before they fly. From 9 November 2026, a one-time password (OTP) is sent to the email address entered on the form, and travellers must enter that code before they can submit, Maldives Voice reports.

What stays the same

• The declaration is still submitted within 96 hours before arrival in the Maldives.
• Submitting it remains free of charge on the official portal.
• Parents or guardians filling in a declaration for an infant can use their own email address.

Tips for travellers

• Use an email account you can open on your phone while travelling, as the code arrives there and your confirmation is sent to the same address.
• Only use the official government portal, imuga.immigration.gov.mv. There is no fee, so be wary of websites that charge to "process" the form.
• Keep the confirmation handy for arrival.

For hotels and operators

Guesthouses, resorts, liveaboards and tour operators may want to update pre-arrival emails and FAQs so guests know to expect the email verification step.