Guides · Maldives

Business licence renewal in Maldives

Written from published rules on 26 August 2026. Not monitored for changes since. A starting point, not official advice — confirm anything that matters with Ministry of Economic Development (މިނިސްޓްރީ އޮފް އިކޮނޮމިކް ޑިވެލޮޕްމަންޓް).

Renewing a business license in the Maldives typically involves submitting an application and relevant supporting documents to the Ministry of Economic Development, ensuring all previous fees are settled.

Your timing

It is advisable to initiate the renewal process well in advance of the license's expiration date. This allows time for gathering all required documents, addressing any potential issues with the application, and accounting for processing times by the Ministry.

Start 14 days ahead

This estimate accounts for potential processing time by the Ministry of Economic Development and time needed to gather necessary documents. Actual processing times may vary.

The process

  1. 1Verify the current status and expiry date of the business license through the Ministry of Economic Development's online portal or by contacting the Ministry directly.
  2. 2Obtain and complete the official Business License Renewal Application Form from the Ministry's website or office.
  3. 3Prepare all required supporting documents as specified by the Ministry, which typically include the original business license, a valid Business Registration Certificate, and evidence of tax compliance.
  4. 4Submit the completed application form and all supporting documents to the Ministry of Economic Development. This can often be done in person or through an online portal if available.
  5. 5Pay the prescribed renewal fee. The Ministry will usually provide details on accepted payment methods.
  6. 6Await processing of the application and receive the renewed business license.

What to bring

  • Completed Business License Renewal Application Form
  • Original Business License (or a copy, as specified by the Ministry)
  • Valid Business Registration Certificate (or relevant company registration documents)
  • Tax Clearance Certificate or proof of tax compliance (e.g., from MIRA, Maldives Inland Revenue Authority)
  • Any other documents specifically requested by the Ministry of Economic Development, depending on the business type or recent changes.

Who handles it

Ministry of Economic Development (މިނިސްޓްރީ އޮފް އިކޮނޮމިކް ޑިވެލޮޕްމަންޓް)

https://www.trade.gov.mv/business-licence

The renewal fee for a business license is specified by the Ministry of Economic Development and may vary depending on the type and size of the business. It is advisable to confirm the current fee schedule directly with the Ministry or on their official website.

What commonly goes wrong

  • Ensure all outstanding fees or fines related to the business license are settled before applying for renewal, as unpaid dues can delay or prevent renewal.
  • Verify that the business registration itself is current and valid, as an expired registration can impact license renewal.
  • Check for any changes in regulations or required documents since the previous renewal, as requirements can be updated periodically.
  • Allow sufficient time for processing, especially if there are any discrepancies in the application or if additional information is requested by the Ministry.

Sources

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