Vessels - Inward and Outward Clearance
Inward Clearance
All vessels calling in the ports of Maldives are required to obtain an Inward Clearance
The vessels are required to have an agent appointed in Male’. However, in the event that this is not possible before arriving in Maldives, Customs must be informed on VHF Channel 16 accordingly and appointment of an agent must be completed within 48 hours of arrival.
Customs Inward Clearance (except for those under diplomatic immunity), will be granted after approval has been obtained by the agent, from:
- Coast Guard
- Port Health, Department of Public Health
- Department of Immigration and Emigration
In atolls and islands where there is no Customs Unit established, Inward Clearance will be granted by Customs Officers on regional duty or through Atoll Offices.
If the first Port of Arrival is an island other than Male", the agent must obtain approval from Ministry of Defense and National Security.
Documents Required
- Last Port Clearance (original)
- Passenger and Crew List
- Crew Declaration
- Crew personal effects list
- Ship store
- Bond store list
- Transit cargo manifest
- Port of call or voyage memo
- Copy of MNDF’s security clearance
- General Declaration
- If it is the first time of getting inward clearance of the vessel, submit its picture and specification
Outward Clearance
According to Article 69 of customs regulation, any vessel, departing from Maldives to overseas by sea and air should obtain outward clearance before departure.
Documents Required
- The General Declaration and Crew List (must be endorsed by the Port Operator, Department of Immigration and Emigration and Port Health).
- MNDF Security Clearance (Original)
- Port Control Permit issued by the Port Operator
- If the vessel contains cargo, a cargo manifest endorsed by Customs Valuation and Documentation Section must be submitted
- Payment Receipt
- In the event that the vessel is unable to depart Maldives within 24 hours from the issuance of Outward Clearance, a re-application is required
- Vessels that do not enter the port anchorage area in their duration at the port are not required to endorse General Declaration and Crew List by the Port Operator. Additionally, the Port Operators are not required to issue Port State Control Permits for these vessels.
Outward Clearance Issuing Ports
- Male’ Commercial Harbour and its anchorage area
- S. Hithadhoo Commercial Habour and its anchorage area
- H. Dh Kulhudhuffushi Commercial Habour and its anchorage area
- H. A. Uligan Yatch Harbour (only for vessels carrying tourist)