In short
To import goods into the Maldives for business, you register as an importer with Maldives Customs Service, and restricted goods also need a specific permit. DBS Maldives checks what your goods require, prepares the Customs registration and any permit applications, and follows them through.
What is an import licence in the Maldives?
What most people call an import licence in the Maldives is importer registration with Maldives Customs Service. Any party importing goods, other than for personal use, must be registered with Customs. The application is made by submitting the online registration form through the Customs Portal.
For some goods, registration is not enough. Restricted goods need a specific permit before they can be imported. Examples include pork products, chemicals, and medicines and controlled drugs. Controlled items can also need registration with the economic ministry as well as with Customs.
Once registered, much of the day-to-day work happens online. Tradian, the Maldives National Single Window, brings together services from several government agencies so businesses can manage import and export processes in one place.
How DBS Maldives helps
- We review what you plan to import and flag any goods that may be restricted.
- We check that your business is registered and that its registered activities cover importing and selling those goods.
- We prepare the Customs registration form and supporting details, and check them against your registry record.
- We identify which agency issues any permit your goods need and prepare that application too.
- We follow up with Customs and other agencies until the registration and permits are in place.
Importing is often one part of a wider set-up. If you also need premises or sector permits, we cover them through business permits and licences. Imported goods sold locally can also bring GST into view, so we look at GST registration at the same time.
How to get an import licence in the Maldives
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Review your goods
We list what you plan to import and check whether any items are restricted or controlled.
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Check your business record
We confirm your registration and registered activities are in order, and fix any gaps first.
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Register with Customs
We prepare the importer registration form and submit it through the Customs Portal, then respond to any queries.
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Apply for permits where needed
For restricted goods, we prepare the permit application for the agency concerned before the goods are shipped.
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Set up for ongoing imports
We explain how the Customs Portal and Tradian fit into your routine, and note any permits that must be renewed.
What documents do I need for importer registration?
- Your business registration details from the Registrar
- Your registered business activities
- Details of the person authorised to deal with Customs
- Contact details and business address
- A list of the goods you plan to import
- Any permits already held for restricted goods
- Identity documents for the owners, as we confirm for your case
Common mistakes to avoid
- Shipping before registering. Registering with Customs only after the goods arrive can lead to delays and extra costs.
- Assuming all goods are treated the same. Restricted goods need a specific permit. Check every product line, not just the main ones.
- Applying for permits after the goods arrive. Permits for restricted goods should be in place before shipment.
- Using an old application form. Registration is now made online through the Customs Portal, not on paper forms found on older websites.
- Registered activities that do not cover trading. Your registry record should reflect the import and sale of your goods.
If you are planning your first shipment, send us a short enquiry.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get an import licence in the Maldives?
Register your business as an importer with Maldives Customs Service by submitting the online registration form through the Customs Portal. If any of your goods are restricted, you also need a specific permit for them. We prepare the registration and any permit applications for you.
Who issues import permits in the Maldives?
Importer registration is handled by Maldives Customs Service. Permits for restricted goods come from the agency responsible for that type of product, and controlled items can also need registration with the economic ministry. We confirm the right agency for each of your goods before applying.
Where is the import licence application form?
Importer registration is made online. The registration form is submitted through the Maldives Customs Service Customs Portal rather than on paper. Permits for restricted goods have their own applications. We complete and submit the forms on your behalf and check them before they go in.
Do I need to register with Customs to import for personal use?
Customs registration is required for parties importing goods other than for personal use. If you are bringing in goods to sell, use in a business or supply to clients, you should register. Restricted goods need a permit in either case, so check before you ship.
What is Tradian?
Tradian is the Maldives National Single Window, a government portal that brings together services from several agencies. It lets businesses manage import and export processes online in one place. We explain how it fits with your Customs registration once you are set up to import.
Last reviewed 6 October 2026. Requirements change; we confirm the current rules with you before any application.