Malta Visa Types, Requirements, and Application

A Malta visa is the key to unlocking one of the top mystical and enchanting destinations in Europe. Whether you’re planning to travel, work, or study, understanding the different types of visas and regulations can make your preparation process smoother. This article provides an overview of the various Maltese visa types, necessary requirements, and how to apply, which you may find useful.

Who needs a visa to enter Malta?

• Malta is part of the Schengen Area. This means that citizens from EEA countries and 🇨🇭 Switzerland can enter Malta without a visa for tourism or business purposes for up to 90 days. Specifically, these countries include:

• You do not need a visa for up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes, if you are a citizen of countries that have a visa-free agreement with the Schengen area including:

However, if you are not from one of these countries, you must apply for Malta visa before intending to set foot in this country.

Malta visa types

To cater to the diverse needs of visitors and those seeking opportunities in Malta, the island offers a range of visa types, from tourist and work visas to study and residency. Below is an overview of 9 Maltese visa types, each opening different doors to the island nation.

• Schengen visa is for those who want to visit Malta for a short period under 90 days. With this visa, you can not only explore Malta but also travel to other Schengen countries. It’s an ideal choice for tourists wanting to experience the culture and beauty of Malta and Europe.
• Transit visa serves those who need to transit through Malta to reach their final destination. If you already have a Schengen visa or a residence permit from another Schengen country, you will not need this type of visa. It’s a convenient solution for long trips through multiple countries.
• Work visa is the first step for non-EU/EEA/Switzerland citizens wanting to work in Malta. The work visa allows you to stay and work in Malta for a year and can be renewed. To apply for this visa, you need a work contract and confirmation letter from the employing company.
• Student visa is for international students from outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland who wish to pursue studies in Malta for courses longer than three months. Students from Schengen visa-exempt countries do not need a visa for studies under 90 days but require a residence permit if wishing to stay longer.
• Family visa opens the opportunity for you to live with family members in Malta, including spouses, partners, or minor children of Maltese citizens or residence permit holders. This visa allows you to enjoy benefits like any other temporary resident.
• Retirement visa is for those who want to retire and live in Malta. The island offers a peaceful and high-quality living environment, ideal for retirement life.
• Nomad visa suits the remote work trend, allowing freelancers to live and work in Malta while maintaining their work with companies or projects abroad. This visa is initially granted for one year and can be extended.
• Golden visa is an opportunity to gain Maltese citizenship through investment, opening doors for those wanting to settle permanently and enjoy the benefits of being an EU citizen.
• EU Blue Card is a residence permit allowing high-skilled non-EU workers to work in Malta and other EU countries, offering opportunities for foreign professionals to contribute to Malta’s and Europe’s economy.

Malta visa requirements

Preparing for your trip to Malta, understanding the visa application requirements is crucial. Below is a detailed list of necessary requirements when applying for a Malta visa, helping you approach in a systematic and effective manner:

• A valid passport is a prerequisite. Your passport needs to be valid for at least three months after the intended return date and have at least two blank pages. If you have had visas before, don’t forget to include copies of those visas.
• The visa application form must be filled out completely and accurately. After filling out the form online, you need to print it out to submit with your application. This step first presents your purpose and personal information to the consular office.
• Two recent passport-sized photos must be attached to the application form. Photos must follow the Schengen visa regulations in size and style, ensuring high identifiability.
• Confirmed flight tickets are not necessarily to be purchased before visa issuance. Instead, a booked flight itinerary is sufficient, proving your travel plans.
• Schengen travel insurance is mandatory, with a minimum coverage of €30,000 across Malta and the Schengen area. This measure ensures your safety throughout the trip.
• An invitation letter should clearly describe the purpose of the trip, including itinerary, flight dates, and the main purpose of the visit. This is your chance to clarify your needs and plans with the consular office.
• Hotel booking proof demonstrates you have accommodation in Malta during your stay. This not only reassures the consular office about your lodging plans but also reflects your preparedness.
• Bank statements prove financial capability, with specific regulation being proof of at least €48 for each day of stay in Malta. This is important evidence of your ability to afford the trip.
• Evidence of visa fee payment is the final step, usually made at the embassy or consulate via cash or card. This marks the completion of the application process.

How to apply for Malta visa?

To make the process smooth and efficient, knowing each step to apply for Malta visa is essential. Below are detailed instructions step by step for you to complete the Malta visa application accurately and timely.

• Step#1. Contact the nearest Maltese embassy or consulate: First, you need to find and contact the Maltese Embassy or Consulate responsible for your area. Contact information can be found on the official website or through embassy information sources.
• Step#2. Schedule an appointment: After contacting the Maltese representative office, the next step is to schedule an appointment to submit your visa application. Scheduling ensures you are served at the best time and minimizes unnecessary waiting.
• Step#3. Complete the Malta visa application form: The visa application form must be filled with your accurate personal information. Don’t forget to sign the form after filling it out. The form can be downloaded from the embassy/consulate’s website or at the visa application center.
• Step#4. Collect the required documents: Before your appointment, you need to prepare all the documents required by the Embassy’s checklist. Ensure all documents are carefully prepared and meet the requirements to avoid delays or denial of the application.
• Step#5. Submit the application and pay the visa fee: On the scheduled date, you will bring your application to submit and proceed to pay the visa fee. This fee can be paid in cash or by card at the Embassy or Consulate.
• Step#6. Wait for the visa processing outcome: After submitting the application, you just need to wait for notification via email or SMS about the visa decision. This process usually takes about 15 working days, but it may take longer depending on specific cases.