Investing in Maldives: Yields, Appreciation & Ownership
Who can buy, how ownership works, and the taxes and duties for buying property in Maldives.
Who can buy in Maldives
Maldivian constitution prohibits foreign freehold ownership. Foreigners can only lease property — up to 21 years for small investments on uninhabited islands, up to 50 years for investments above $10 million. All transactions require government approval; tourism zones dominate foreign investment.
| Buyer | Permitted | Tenure | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maldivian Citizen | Yes | Freehold | UnrestrictedApproval: Land registry |
| Foreign National (leasehold) | Conditional | Leasehold | 21-50 years lease; tiered by investment size (min $1M+ typical)Approval: Government / Parliament approval |
| Foreign Developer (tourism zone) | Conditional | Leasehold | Up to 99 years for large tourism/resort projectsApproval: Government approval + minimum investment |
Capital gains on a sale
Capital gains from the disposal of immovable property or shares in companies primarily related to immovable property in the Maldives are subject to Capital Gains Withholding Tax (CGWT).
| Holding period | Classification | Tax rate | Indexation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Any | Capital Gains | 10% on gross payment | No |
Always consult a licensed real estate attorney before purchase. Rules change; verify current law. Always confirm with a qualified tax professional. Rules change; verify with a professional before you transact.
Frequently asked questions about Maldives
With conditions. 21-50 years lease; tiered by investment size (min $1M+ typical)
Buying or selling in Maldives?
Tell us once. Our team connects you with the right homes, or the right buyers.