Dmitri Mihhailov
Managing Partner
Founder of Prifinance. 15+ years structuring international companies, banking and licensing for founders worldwide.
Company Registration in Maldives - Access to a Global Tourism Industry
The Maldives is one of the world’s leading tourism destinations, creating opportunities for businesses in hospitality, marina services, and related sectors. Foreign investors can participate in resort infrastructure projects and other eligible activities, subject to applicable requirements. The tax system provides favorable conditions for corporate income, while the country’s economy is oriented toward international and foreign-currency transactions.The Maldives is one of the world’s leading tourism destinations, creating opportunities for businesses in hospitality, marina services, and related sectors. Foreign investors can participate in resort infrastructure projects and other eligible activities, subject to applicable requirements. The tax system provides favorable conditions for corporate income, while the country’s economy is oriented toward international and foreign-currency transactions.
27 yrs
on the international marketon the market
60+
in-house specialistsspecialists
6,000+
companies servedcompanies served
Updated
Maldives · at a glance
Legal formPrivate limited company
Time to set up3-6 weeks with FDI approval
Income tax0% → 15% over MVR 500k
Tourism GST17% · general 8%
LandLeasehold - to 50 years
Remote setupMostly - approvals by POA
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Key Features
Maldives: An Economy Built Around Island Resorts
Maldives is an economy where tourism plays a central role, driving demand for a wide range of services, from hospitality and resort management to supply and professional support. The “one island, one resort” model shapes the approach to real estate: island territories are provided under long-term leases rather than ownership. For international businesses, this creates opportunities in resort development, property management, and tourism infrastructure services.
The Maldivian corporate framework is governed by the Companies Act 2023 and allows private limited companies to be incorporated, including with a single shareholder. Foreign investments require prior approval, while certain activities remain restricted for foreign investors. Corporate tax is charged at 15% on profits above the applicable tax-free threshold, GST is 8% for most transactions and 17% for the tourism sector. Dividends distributed from profits already subject to corporate tax are not subject to additional tax.
Maldives is an economy where tourism plays a central role, driving demand for a wide range of services, from hospitality and resort management to supply and professional support. The “one island, one resort” model shapes the approach to real estate: island territories are provided under long-term leases rather than ownership. For international businesses, this creates opportunities in resort development, property management, and tourism infrastructure services.
The Maldivian corporate framework is governed by the Companies Act 2023 and allows private limited companies to be incorporated, including with a single shareholder. Foreign investments require prior approval, while certain activities remain restricted for foreign investors. Corporate tax is charged at 15% on profits above the applicable tax-free threshold, GST is 8% for most transactions and 17% for the tourism sector. Dividends distributed from profits already subject to corporate tax are not subject to additional tax.
Packages & pricing
Company Registration in Maldives - Costs and Packages
01 - PRIVATE LIMITED · MALDIVES
Company
from$3,400USD · all-in
Registration of a Maldivian private limited company - FDI approval strategy, incorporation under the 2023 Act, tax registrations and the first year of the registered address included.
✓Activity screening against reserved sectors - first✓Foreign-investment registration & approval✓Incorporation under the Companies Act 2023✓Registered address in Malé - first year✓Income tax & GST/TGST registrations✓Free pre-incorporation consultation
Optional add-ons: resort-lease due diligence - scoped per island · work-permit quotas & visas - from $900 · accounting - from $250/month · renewal - from $2,000/year.Optional add-ons: resort-lease due diligence - scoped per island · work-permit quotas & visas - from $900 · accounting - from $250/month · renewal - from $2,000/year.
Start with Company →02 - PRIVATE LIMITED · MALDIVES
Most popularCompany + Bank Account
from$5,400USD · all-in
An active Maldivian company with a local bank account - accounts in MVR and USD opened with repatriation requirements in mind. Bank fees and other expenses are listed separately.
✓Everything in Company✓Account with BML, MIB or peers✓Dual-currency - MVR and USD✓Repatriation & FDI file kept audit-ready✓Compliance onboarding support✓Dedicated account manager
Start with Banking →Prices are indicative starting rates and are confirmed before any work begins. Government, FDI, and registration fees are listed separately in the quotation.Prices are indicative starting rates and are confirmed before any work begins. Government, FDI, and registration fees are listed separately in the quotation.
What you can do
Maldives: Key Sectors for Investment
The economy creates sustained demand for services, capital, and infrastructure connected to resorts, logistics, and marine projects.
01 · Resort Development & Island Leases
Long-term island leases, joint ventures, and property redevelopment within the “one island, one resort” model.
02 · Hotel & Resort Management
Management and franchise agreements for hotel and resort owners.
03 · Tourism Services
Dive centres, excursions, spas, and water sports supporting the tourism sector.
04 · Supply & Logistics
Provisioning, freight, seaplane, and transfer services between islands.
05 · Construction & Marine Works
Resort construction, marine engineering, and related building services.
06 · Fisheries & Export
Tuna and seafood projects in sectors open to foreign investment.
Why Maldives
Key Advantages of the Jurisdiction for Company Registration
✓
Preferential Tax Regime
The first MVR 500,000 of profit is exempt from tax, with a 15% rate applying above this threshold.The first MVR 500,000 of profit is exempt from tax, with a 15% rate applying above this threshold.
✓
Foreign-Currency Revenue
The tourism sector is largely dollar-oriented, which is convenient for companies serving international clients.The tourism sector is largely dollar-oriented, which is convenient for companies serving international clients.
✓
Stable Tourism Demand
The Maldives welcomes around two million tourists annually, supporting consistent demand for services and infrastructure.The Maldives welcomes around two million tourists annually, supporting consistent demand for services and infrastructure.
✓
Dividends Without Additional Tax
Profits already subject to corporate tax can be distributed without additional tax in the Maldives.Profits already subject to corporate tax can be distributed without additional tax in the Maldives.
✓
Modern Corporate Framework
The Companies Act 2023 allows private companies to be incorporated with a single shareholder and provides for electronic filings.The Companies Act 2023 allows private companies to be incorporated with a single shareholder and provides for electronic filings.
✓
Opportunities in the Resort Sector
New projects, long-term island leases, and resort management contracts continue to create opportunities in the market.New projects, long-term island leases, and resort management contracts continue to create opportunities in the market.
How it compares
Maldives Compared with Regional Markets
Seychelles and Mauritius focus on asset structuring, Sri Lanka offers scale and labour resources, while the UAE serves as a global logistics and financial hub. Maldives occupies a niche focused on high-margin hospitality and infrastructure investment.Seychelles and Mauritius focus on asset structuring, Sri Lanka offers scale and labour resources, while the UAE serves as a global logistics and financial hub. Maldives occupies a niche focused on high-margin hospitality and infrastructure investment.
| Country | Corporate Tax | Market Profile | Strategic Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maldives | 0% / 15% | FDI approval | Hotels & infrastructure |
| Seychelles | 15% / 25% | International registry (IBC) | Corporate administration |
| Mauritius | 15% (3% exports) | Tax residency | DTAA agreements |
| Sri Lanka | 30% | Emerging market | Scale & labour resources |
| UAE | 9% (0% FZ) | International hub | Global logistics & market access |
MaldivesHotels & infrastructure
Corporate Tax0% / 15%
Market ProfileFDI approval
SeychellesCorporate administration
Corporate Tax15% / 25%
Market ProfileInternational registry (IBC)
MauritiusDTAA agreements
Corporate Tax15% (3% exports)
Market ProfileTax residency
Sri LankaScale & labour resources
Corporate Tax30%
Market ProfileEmerging market
UAEGlobal logistics & market access
Corporate Tax9% (0% FZ)
Market ProfileInternational hub
Requirements
Incorporation and Business Requirements
01
One Shareholder - An individual or legal entity under the Companies Act 2023. Foreign ownership is permitted within the approved FDI scope.
02
One Director - The director may be of any nationality. The company must also appoint a local corporate secretary.
03
FDI Registration - Foreign investments must be registered and approved by the relevant ministry before commercial operations begin.
04
Registered Address - A registered address in Malé is required. Operations are conducted at the leased premises or under the relevant contract.
05
Activity Screening - Activities reserved for Maldivian citizens must be reviewed before the registration documents are submitted.
06
Accounting and Reporting - Companies must comply with MIRA requirements for corporate tax and GST/TGST, including applicable filing deadlines.
How it works
Company Registration in Maldives - From Application to Launch in Weeks.
The overall timeline depends on FDI approval, bank account opening, and lease review. These matters are addressed in advance.The overall timeline depends on FDI approval, bank account opening, and lease review. These matters are addressed in advance.
01Same day
Initial Consultation
Activity screening against FDI requirements. FDI approval and lease strategy defined.
021-2 weeks
KYC & Application
KYC review and document collection. Preparation and submission of the foreign investment application.
032-4 weeks
FDI Approval
Ministry review of the investment application. Foreign investment registration upon approval.
041 week
Incorporation
Company registration under the 2023 Act. Tax profile setup and registration with MIRA.
052-4 weeks
Bank Account
Opening MVR and USD accounts for operations. Repatriation arrangements prepared.
063-8 weeks
Permits & Launch
Obtaining required licences and work-permit quotas. Lease execution where applicable.
Quick facts
Legal formPrivate limited
Shareholders1+ under the 2023 Act
Income tax0% → 15%
GST / TGST8% / 17%
LandLeasehold only
Standard timeline3-6 weeks
Renewal & accountingFrom $2,000/year
On Maldives, the lease agreement is critical: its term, transfer rights, rent review provisions, and required approvals are reviewed before any investment is made.
On the ground
On the ground in the Maldives.
Prifinance - Maldives
Malé
Malé, Maldives
01
Tourism-economy specialists
Your setup is run with Malé counsel who file FDI registrations and resort papers routinely.
02
Lease diligence first
Tenure, consents and transfer rights checked before commitments - the Maldivian discipline.
03
Repatriation papered
Registered FDI with audit-ready files so dollars leave lawfully in every season.
04
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Taxation 2026
Tax Obligations: Tax-Free Threshold and Sector-Specific Rules
The Maldivian tax system includes corporate income tax, general and tourism GST/TGST, and withholding tax on payments to non-residents. The tourism sector is subject to specific rules, while cross-border transactions may also be affected by applicable double tax treaties.The Maldivian tax system includes corporate income tax, general and tourism GST/TGST, and withholding tax on payments to non-residents. The tourism sector is subject to specific rules, while cross-border transactions may also be affected by applicable double tax treaties.
Corporate Income Tax - 0% → 15%
The first MVR 500,000 of profit is tax-exempt; profits above this threshold are taxed at 15% for companies and branches.The first MVR 500,000 of profit is tax-exempt; profits above this threshold are taxed at 15% for companies and branches.
TGST - 17%
A special rate for the tourism sector. An environmental levy is also charged per guest per night.A special rate for the tourism sector. An environmental levy is also charged per guest per night.
GST - 8%
Standard rate for trade and services outside the tourism sector.Standard rate for trade and services outside the tourism sector.
Withholding Tax - 10%
Applies to certain cross-border payments to non-residents, including interest, royalties, and technical services.Applies to certain cross-border payments to non-residents, including interest, royalties, and technical services.
Tax Rates and Fees in 2026
Corporate Income Tax0% → 15%
Tourism GST17%
General GST8%
Environmental LevyPer night - resorts
Withholding Tax10% - specified payments
Renewal & AccountingFrom $2,000/year
Owners’ obligations depend on their tax residence. We model TGST conservatively, taking into account the sustained trend of rate increases.
Your team
The specialists who'll handle your case.
Eugeniu Bevziuc
International Business Consultant
Guides clients from the first consultation to a working setup - companies, accounts and substance in 60+ jurisdictions.
Alex Danila
Corporate Services Specialist
Handles incorporation paperwork, KYC and bank introductions so your Maldivian company launches without delays.
Follow Prifinance
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Watch: opening a company in the Maldives with Prifinance
The resort economy, entered through the front door - approval, company, lease diligence and bank in one prepared project. Full support, start to finish.
Talk to a specialist →FAQ
Company Registration in Maldives, answered.
Can a company be registered without a personal visit?+
In most cases, yes. FDI applications, incorporation, and tax registration can be handled under a power of attorney. Opening a bank account and obtaining certain licences may require the director’s presence. We determine whether a visit is needed at the relevant stage.
How much does company registration in Maldives cost?+
Registration with FDI approval starts from $3,400; with banking support, from $5,400. Resort lease due diligence is priced separately for each island. Renewal and accounting support starts from $2,000 per year. Lease payments and government fees for resort projects are calculated separately.
What is FDI approval, and can it be rejected?+
Foreign investments must be registered with the Ministry of Economic Development before operations begin. The review covers the activity, ownership structure, and investment scope. Restrictions mainly concern reserved sectors and incomplete applications. The proposed activity is therefore screened before filing.
What taxes does a company in Maldives pay?+
The first MVR 500,000 of profit is exempt from corporate tax, with a 15% rate applying above this threshold. GST is 8%, while TGST is 17% for the tourism sector, plus an environmental levy. A 10% withholding tax applies to certain payments to non-residents. Dividends distributed from profits already subject to corporate tax are not subject to additional tax in Maldives.
How do resort island leases work?+
The government grants long-term lease rights for individual islands, historically for terms of up to 50 years. The terms define the lease period, payments, development obligations, and approvals required for transfers. For operators without development capital, management and franchise agreements can provide an alternative.
Can foreigners operate guesthouses on local islands?+
In most cases, no. Guesthouse operations on inhabited islands are generally among the activities reserved for Maldivian citizens. Foreign capital can participate in resort projects, hotels, property management, as well as supply and partnership models.
How can funds be repatriated from Maldives?+
Registered FDI allows the lawful repatriation of taxable profits, documented dividends, and other funds subject to the required supporting documents and MIRA clearances. Cross-border transfers are processed through banks in accordance with applicable foreign-exchange requirements.
Can a company own land?+
No. Land is owned by the state or island councils and is provided under lease arrangements. Foreign freehold ownership does not apply. For resort projects, the lease term and contractual rights are particularly important.
How is employment regulated?+
Foreign employees are subject to quotas and work permits. Requirements to employ Maldivian citizens may apply to certain positions. Quotas and permits are taken into account when planning the investment project.
How long does company registration in Maldives take?+
Once FDI approval is obtained, company registration takes around one week. The full process - FDI approval, incorporation, tax registration, and bank account opening - typically takes 3-6 weeks. Resort projects may require additional procedures, including leases, environmental impact assessments (EIA), and construction permits, which can take several months.
Client notes
Google4.7★★★★★
Founders who wanted it done right.
Google4.7★★★★★
“As a software development crew at FewMoreTaps OÜ, we've had the pleasure of working with Prifinance on some key financial moves.First of all, navigating the world of corporate banking and finance can be a maze, but Prifinance made it feel like a walk in the park. They helped us set up a corporate bank account without the hassle of jumping on a plane or drowning in paperwork. Everything was done remotely, smoothly…”
Google
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Google
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Google
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Google
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Google
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Google
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Tell us about your business and a specialist will reply within one business day with an honest recommendation - company, lease strategy or a different flag - a timeline and a fixed quote.A Maldives specialist will reply within one business day with an honest recommendation, a timeline and a fixed quote.
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