Effective Date: 21 September 2026

The Maldives Inland Revenue Authority (MIRA) has published the 32^nd Amendment to the GST Regulation (Regulation No. 2026/R-82), introducing a special GST framework applicable to overseas providers of Inbound Tourism Products (ITPs) sold to customers travelling to the Maldives.

The amendment establishes new registration, filing, calculation, invoicing and record-keeping requirements for overseas suppliers of ITPs and provides guidance on how GST should be calculated on such supplies.

Below is an overview of the key provisions introduced under the amendment.

GST Registration for Overseas ITP Providers

Overseas suppliers of Inbound Tourism Products are required to register for GST using Form 120 (GST Registration for Overseas Suppliers).

Where an overseas provider maintains separate records or operates distinct business activities from different geographical locations, the provider may apply for separate GST registrations for each activity.

GST Calculation & Value of Supply for ITP

GST payable is calculated using the following formula:

GST Payable = (A − B) × t ÷ (1 + t)

The value of supply of an ITP is determined using the following formula:

Value of Supply = (A − B) ÷ (1 + t)

Where:

• A represents the consideration received in relation to the Inbound Tourism Product;
• B represents consideration paid to persons registered for GST, or persons who are required to be registered for GST, in relation to the Inbound Tourism Product; and
• t represents the applicable GST rate, currently 17%.

If the calculation results in a negative amount or zero, the GST payable or the value of supply for that transaction will be deemed to be zero.

GST Return Filing Requirement

A separate GST return has been introduced for overseas ITP providers through MIRA Form 211.

While all registered taxpayers will be required to file returns electronically through MIRAconnect Portal from 1 January 2027, overseas ITP providers must file all returns online through MIRAconnect Portal commencing 1 October 2026.

Where exceptional circumstances prevent online filing or payment, the Commissioner General of MIRA may approve alternative arrangements.

For the purpose of determining the thresholds relating to monthly or quarterly GST return filing, only the value attributable to the Inbound Tourism Product will be considered.

Record Keeping

Overseas ITP providers are required to maintain sufficient records to substantiate their GST obligations. These include:

• Agreements with ITP service providers;
• Agreements with agents and booking service providers;
• Records of consideration received from customers;
• Records of payments made to ITP service providers and agents;
• Booking confirmations, reservation records, travel itineraries and ticketing records;
• Documentation identifying the tourism products supplied, including accommodation, food, transportation, insurance and other tourism-related services; and
• Records relating to refunds, cancellations, amendments and booking changes.

Records may be maintained in any language chosen by the overseas ITP provider.

However, where MIRA requests access to such records, the provider must furnish an official translation in English or Dhivehi where required.

The amendment further clarifies that overseas ITP providers may keep their records at their ordinary place of business outside the Maldives and are not required to physically maintain records within the Maldives.

Transitional Provision

The amendment includes a transitional rule for supplies documented prior to implementation.

Where a tax invoice, invoice or receipt is issued before 1 October 2026, GST will not apply to the relevant Inbound Tourism Product.

Adjustments for Changes in the value of supply

Where GST has already been calculated and paid on a booking and the booking value subsequently changes due to amendments, cancellations, refunds or similar adjustments, the overseas ITP provider may make the necessary adjustment in the GST return for the taxable period in which the change occurred.

Other Matters

No Input Tax Credits

The amendment specifically provides that overseas ITP providers are not entitled to claim input tax credits in relation to their activities under this regime.

However, they will be able to deduct consideration paid to persons registered for GST, or persons who are required to be registered for GST, in relation to the ITP when computing their GST obligations.

Invoicing Requirements

Unlike the standard GST invoicing requirements, overseas ITP providers are not required to separately disclose the GST amount or the GST-exclusive value on invoices issued to customers.

Time Zone Rules

For GST compliance purposes, dates and times are generally determined based on Maldivian time.

However, overseas ITP providers may elect to use their own local time when determining the timing of supplies relating to ITP.

Key Dates

Key Takeaways

The amendment introduces a dedicated GST compliance regime for overseas ITP providers. Businesses affected by these changes should assess their registration obligations, review their GST calculation methodology, ensure compliance with the new filing requirements and maintain sufficient records to support GST reporting obligations.

Early preparation will be important, particularly in light of the mandatory online filing requirements and the commencement of GST obligations from 1 October 2026.

The changing legal landscape can feel overwhelming, but by prioritising preparedness and complying with these updated guidelines, businesses can effectively align with the revised framework, thereby minimising the risks of disputes or penalties.

If you are uncertain about what lies ahead or want to ensure your operations continue smoothly under the new Regulation, connect with QVL for tailored guidance and support.