Frequesntly Asked Questions

Which vessels are eligible for a fishing license?

All vessels engaged in fishing activities within the scope of fisheries regulations, for commercial purposes should take a fishing license.

How to apply for a fishing license?

Fishing License requests must be submitted via the Keyolhu portal.

How long does it take to process a fishing license?

If all required documents are submitted, and payment is confirmed, it will take one working hour for the license to be issued.

What is the Validity of the fishing license?

The Validity of the fishing license depends on the type of fishery;

For Pole & Line and Handline fishery - 12 Months,

Trolling, Grouper and Billfish fishery - 24 months. 

What will happen if the fishing license or any required document is forged?

Depending on the offence, there may be a fine between the amounts of MVR5,000 to MVR20,000.

For tuna fishing vessels, what do you need to do before applying for a fishing license?

No, but you have to make sure that the vessel has installed the vessel locating device (VLD), before applying for the fishing license.

What are the documents are needed to apply for a new fishing License?

A copy of the Vessel Registration Certificate

A copy of a valid Seaworthiness certificate issued by the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation

A copy of a valid Hygiene certificate issued by the Maldives Food and Drug Authority

Copy of the National Identity Card of the person applying for the license OR a copy of the registration certificate of the company

Copy of the Transmitting station license

3 photographs of the vessel; (1) Portside, (2) Starboard Side, and (3) bow of the vessel

What are the documents are needed to renew fishing license?

A copy of the Vessel registration.

A copy of a valid Seaworthiness certificate issued by the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation

A copy of a valid Hygiene certificate issued by the Maldives Food and Drug Authority

How to collect the fishing license?

Once the license is issued, it would be available, in the portal for viewing and printing.