Maldivian citizens travelling to Azerbaijan will no longer need a visa for short stays, following the entry into force of a new bilateral agreement between the two countries. Effective from 29 April 2026, Maldivian nationals holding ordinary passports are now exempt from visa requirements for visits of up to 90 days from the date of entry, reflecting a further strengthening of diplomatic ties and people-to-people connectivity between the Maldives and Azerbaijan.
The latest development broadens the scope of travel facilitation already established between the two nations. An earlier mutual visa exemption arrangement for holders of diplomatic and official passports came into effect on 18 June 2025, laying the groundwork for wider cooperation in the area of international mobility. With the implementation of the agreement signed on 24 September 2025 covering ordinary passport holders, visa-free access now extends to all Maldivian passport categories for eligible short-term travel, marking an important step in enhancing convenience for Maldivian travellers.
The new arrangement is expected to bring greater ease for Maldivians wishing to visit Azerbaijan for tourism, family visits, and other short-term purposes permitted under the agreement. Azerbaijan, known for its rich cultural heritage, modern urban development, scenic landscapes, and growing profile as a travel destination, offers Maldivian visitors an increasingly accessible option for leisure and exploration. The visa exemption is also likely to encourage broader travel exchanges and deepen public engagement between the two countries.
Under the terms of the agreement, Maldivian nationals travelling on ordinary passports may remain in Azerbaijan for up to 90 days from the date of entry without obtaining a visa. However, travellers intending to stay beyond the permitted period, or those seeking to travel for employment, education, or business-related purposes, will still be required to secure the appropriate visa in advance in accordance with Azerbaijani immigration requirements.
The Government of Maldives has described the development as an important achievement within its wider efforts to expand visa-free travel opportunities for Maldivian citizens. The agreement reflects the country’s continued commitment to improving international travel access for its people while also reinforcing bilateral cooperation with partner nations. For Maldivians, the new policy opens the door to easier travel planning and greater international connectivity, while also underscoring the growing depth of relations between the Maldives and Azerbaijan.
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