The government is developing the legal and policy framework for the Maldives’ first investor residency visa programme, according to Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed. The initiative is aimed at attracting foreign capital and expanding the country’s investment portfolio as part of efforts to diversify the economy.
The programme is currently in its design stage, with work centred on regulatory structures, enabling legislation, and operational components. Saeed described the ongoing phase as focused on shaping policy and legal frameworks, supported by consultations with government agencies and the private sector.
A second round of stakeholder meetings took place in mid-September, following initial discussions in August. The sessions brought together representatives from Henley & Partners, an international firm specialising in investment migration, alongside ministry officials and other stakeholders.
The government formally partnered with Henley & Partners during a Business Forum in Singapore earlier this year, held during President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s visit to the country. A service agreement was signed at the forum to establish collaboration on the programme.
Residency by investment programmes are widely used in other countries to draw foreign capital and investors. While this marks the Maldives’ first attempt to implement such a scheme, officials say it is designed to align with international standards while responding to domestic economic priorities.
Government projections indicate that the scheme could attract up to USD 6 billion in investment within its first five years, although details of eligibility, investment thresholds, and associated benefits for applicants are yet to be confirmed.
