In short
To dissolve a company in the Maldives, it must go through a formal dissolution process, such as voluntary liquidation by its shareholders. DBS Maldives helps shareholders choose the right route, prepares the filings, and coordinates related steps such as GST deregistration so the company is closed cleanly.
How do you dissolve a company in the Maldives?
To dissolve a company in the Maldives, it is closed through a formal dissolution process rather than simply left dormant. Companies are registered with the Registrar under the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade, and we make sure the closure is recorded there.
There is more than one route:
- Voluntary liquidation by the shareholders, the route for owners who decide to close the company themselves.
- Dissolution by court order.
- Dissolution by the Registrar.
The right route depends on the company's circumstances. This page covers companies only. To close a sole proprietorship or partnership, see sole proprietorship and business closure.
How DBS Maldives helps with company dissolution
Closing a company well protects the shareholders long after the doors close. We keep the process orderly.
- We review the company's position and explain which dissolution route fits it.
- We list what must be settled before the company can be closed, so nothing surfaces later.
- We prepare the dissolution filings for the Registrar and follow them through.
- We handle GST deregistration with MIRA alongside the dissolution.
- We keep the shareholders informed at each stage.
Where a company is in dispute or cannot meet its obligations, we will tell you plainly when specialist legal advice is needed.
How to close a company in the Maldives
-
Review the company
We look at the company's registry record, activities, tax registrations and any open commitments.
-
Agree the route
With the shareholders, we confirm whether voluntary liquidation or another route is appropriate.
-
Settle open matters
We prepare a closing checklist covering staff, contracts, accounts and permits linked to the company.
-
Deregister from GST
If the company is GST registered, we apply with MIRA 106. Returns continue until MIRA confirms in writing.
-
File the dissolution
We prepare and submit the dissolution filings and follow them with the Registrar until the company's closure is recorded.
What do shareholders need to prepare?
- The company's registration details
- A shareholder decision to close the company
- A list of the company's assets, debts and contracts
- Details of any employees, including expatriate staff
- GST and other MIRA registration details
- Permits and licences held in the company's name
- Bank account details for the company
Common mistakes to avoid
- Leaving a company dormant. An inactive company is not a closed one. Obligations can continue while it remains registered.
- Forgetting tax registrations. GST deregistration is its own application.
- Overlooking staff and permits. Expatriate employees, work permits and activity permits all need to be wound up properly.
- Choosing a route without advice. The right route depends on the company. Getting it wrong can mean starting again.
Thinking of closing your company? Talk to us in confidence first.
Frequently asked questions
How do I dissolve a company in the Maldives?
A company is closed through a formal dissolution process recorded with the Registrar. Shareholders who decide to close their own company commonly use voluntary liquidation. A company can also be dissolved by court order or by the Registrar. The right route depends on the company's circumstances.
What is voluntary liquidation?
Voluntary liquidation is a way of dissolving a company that is started by its shareholders, rather than by a court or the Registrar. It suits owners who decide to close the company themselves, where circumstances allow. We confirm whether it fits your company before anything is filed.
Can I just stop using my company instead of dissolving it?
A company that stops trading is still registered until it is formally dissolved, and its obligations can continue in the meantime. If you no longer need the company, closing it properly is usually the safer course. We review its position and advise on the route.
Does dissolving a company cancel its GST registration?
Treat them as separate steps. GST deregistration is applied for with MIRA using form MIRA 106, and the company must keep filing GST returns until MIRA confirms in writing. We coordinate both so the company is not left with open tax obligations.
Is closing a sole proprietorship the same as dissolving a company?
No. Company dissolution follows a formal process with routes such as voluntary liquidation. Sole proprietorships and partnerships are closed differently. If your business is not a company, our sole proprietorship and business closure service is the right place to start.
Can you just shut down a company in the Maldives?
No. A company stays on the register until it is formally dissolved, for example through voluntary liquidation by its shareholders. A company can also be dissolved by court order or by the Registrar. We advise on the right route and handle the process.
Is liquidation the same as winding up a company?
In everyday use, yes: both describe formally closing a company, settling its affairs and removing it from the register. Voluntary liquidation is the route shareholders choose themselves. We explain which process fits your company before anything is filed.
Last reviewed 6 October 2026. Requirements change; we confirm the current rules with you before any application.