Maldivians Gain Visa-Free Entry to Azerbaijan for Short-Term Visits

Maldivian citizens traveling to Azerbaijan will no longer require a visa for short stays, following the implementation of a new bilateral agreement between the two nations. Starting April 29, 2026, Maldivian nationals holding ordinary passports are exempt from visa requirements for stays of up to 90 days from their date of entry. This move simplifies travel for tourists and short-term visitors, removing previous bureaucratic hurdles for ordinary passport holders. This new arrangement expands upon an existing mutual visa exemption agreement that has been in place since June 18, 2025, which specifically covered holders of diplomatic and official passports. By extending these privileges to all citizens through the agreement signed on September 24, 2025, the two countries have effectively opened their borders to one another for general travel. Despite the exemption for short-term visits, specific regulations remain in place for long-term stays. Individuals intending to remain in Azerbaijan for more than 90 days, or those traveling for the purposes of employment, formal education, or business, must still obtain the appropriate visa before their departure. The Maldivian government has described this development as a significant milestone in its ongoing strategy to expand visa-free travel opportunities for its citizens. By increasing global mobility, the government aims to provide Maldivians with easier access to international tourism, cultural exchange, and leisure travel. This agreement marks a strengthening of ties between Malé and Baku, reflecting a growing diplomatic relationship aimed at fostering greater connectivity and people-to-people exchange between the two distant nations.