How To Get A Visa For Malta?

Getting A Visa in Malta

Obtaining visas to enter and reside in any country can be complicated, but the process in Malta is fast and efficient, if you have all the right documentation prepared. Malta offers many variations of visas, depending on what your intentions are when you come to the country. You may be looking at holiday, employment, retirement or even obtaining citizenship and for each there’s a visa that will suit you. If you want to investigate all the different options of visas that are available to you, have a look at the different Malta residency programmes and visas here: https://franksalt.com.mt/malta-residence-programmes/

This guide aims to explain an overview of the general process when applying for a visa for Malta and outlines the necessary steps.

Where Can You Apply for a Malta Visa?

You can apply for a Malta visa at the nearest Maltese embassy or consulate in your country. If Malta doesn’t have diplomatic representation in your country, you may apply at one of the following places:

A Maltese embassy or consulate in a neighbouring or nearby country.
The embassy or consulate of another Schengen country that handles Malta’s consular affairs.
A visa application centre. Some embassies delegate visa processing to private agencies like VFS, where your application will be forwarded to the embassy for approval.
Visit the official website of the Maltese embassy or consulate in your country to check the specific visa requirements and guidelines.

You are generally required to submit your application in the country where you reside or hold citizenship. However, some embassies may instruct you to submit your application in a different country.

How to Apply for a Visa to Enter Malta

First, Gather and Prepare all the Required Documents

Ensure you gather all the necessary documents. If you’re under 18, additional documents may be required, alongside the standard ones:

Application form: Complete the Malta visa application form accurately and sign it. The form can be found on the Malta embassy’s website, at the embassy, consulate, or a visa application centre. Ensure you don’t leave any sections blank.
Travel health insurance: A policy with coverage of at least €30,000 for medical emergencies, valid throughout the Schengen Area.
Cover letter: This letter should explain the purpose and duration of your visit to Malta.
Valid passport: It must be valid for at least three months beyond your return date and have two blank pages. Include copies of previous visas, if any.
Two passport photos: The photos should be passport-sized (3.5 x 4.5 cm) and taken within the last six months, adhering to Schengen photo guidelines.
Have your biometric data (fingerprints) captured: Provide your fingerprints at the consulate or embassy when you submit your documents.
Application fee payment: Pay the visa application fee and include the payment receipt with your documents. Payment is usually made at the embassy or consulate.
Additional documents: Scans of your ID card, previous Schengen visas (if applicable), and residence permit (if relevant).
Proof of financial means: Bank statements, salary slips, or sponsorship letters showing you can cover your expenses during your stay.
Proof of accommodation: Provide evidence of where you’ll stay in Malta, such as a rental agreement, hotel booking, or an invitation letter from a friend or family member.
Invitation letter: If applicable, an invitation letter from your host in Malta confirming your accommodation for the duration of your stay.

Book an Appointment with the Malta Embassy or designated application centre

Most applicants need to attend an in-person appointment. You can schedule this appointment at the Malta consulate or a visa application centre, as applicable.

Complete the Application Form

Fill out the Malta visa application form carefully, ensuring all personal information is correct. You can get the form from Maltese embassies, consulates, or application centres in your home country.

Submit Your Malta Visa Application

Submit your application and all required documents in person at the embassy, consulate, or visa application centre. Ensure all information is accurate, as incorrect details could lead to a visa denial.

Pay the Malta Visa Application Fee

Once your application is complete, pay the visa fee. Note that certain applicants, such as family members of EU citizens, holders of diplomatic passports, official travellers, researchers, or children under six, may be exempt from this fee but always ask first.

Wait for Processing

Visa processing typically takes about 15 calendar days, but it can take longer during peak seasons or if additional documentation is required.
In some cases, you may be asked to attend an interview or provide additional documents.

Important: In most cases, should your visa be denied, the application fee will be non-refundable but you may be able to appeal.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW

Common Questions to Expect During an Interview when You Apply

Personal Information

Can you introduce yourself?
What is your occupation?
Are you married? Do you have children?
Where do you currently live?
Have you ever travelled outside your home country before? If yes, where and when?

Purpose of Visit

Why do you want to visit Malta?
What is the purpose of your trip (tourism, business, visiting family/friends, study, etc.)?
How long do you plan to stay in Malta?
Have you been to Malta or any other Schengen countries before?
Do you know anyone in Malta? If yes, who are they and what is your relationship with them?

Travel Details

When do you plan to travel to Malta?
What are your travel plans? Can you provide a detailed itinerary?
Where will you be staying in Malta (hotel, friend’s/relative’s place)?
Do you have a return flight ticket?

Financial Situation

How will you fund your trip?
Can you show proof of your financial means (bank statements, sponsorship letters, etc.)?
What is your monthly income?
Who will cover the costs of your trip if you are not paying yourself?

Employment/Study Details

What do you do for a living?
Where do you work, and what is your position?
How long have you been employed at your current job?
If you are a student, where do you study, and what are you studying?

Ties to Your Home Country

Do you own any property or have any assets in your home country?
What ties do you have to your home country that would compel you to return after your trip?
What are your plans after your visit to Malta?

Previous Visa/Travel History

Have you ever applied for a visa to any other country? If yes, was it approved or denied?
Have you ever overstayed a visa or been refused entry to any country?
Have you faced any legal issues or been convicted of a crime in the past?

Additional Questions That May be Asked

Why did you choose Malta over other destinations?
Do you have any medical conditions that might affect your travel?
Are you aware of the conditions of your visa?
What will you do if your visa application is rejected?

Tips for the Interview:

Be Honest: Always answer truthfully. Consistency between your answers and your application documents is crucial.
Stay Calm: Keep calm and composed throughout the interview. Don’t rush your answers.
Be Prepared: Review your application and documents before the interview, so you can answer questions confidently.

Entering Malta After Receiving Your Visa

Once your visa is granted, ensure you enter Malta before it expires. Carry all necessary identification documents. With a Maltese visa, you can also visit other Schengen countries, but you must first enter Malta before travelling elsewhere in the Schengen zone.

If you’ve obtained a long-stay (national) visa, remember to visit the Expatriates Unit of the local Identity Malta Agency within three days of arrival to apply for a temporary residence permit.

Final Tips:

Apply Early: Start the application process well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
Double-Check Requirements: Requirements can change, so always check the latest information on the Maltese embassy or consulate website in your country.

Frank Salt Real Estate is Malta’s biggest real estate group with more than 55 years of experience in all matters related to property, whether it is residential, commercial or rentals. With both Client Services Department that assists all queries from abroad and a short holiday lets department, we are ready to assist any visitors wishing to relocate to or visit the country. If you are interested in anything regarding buying, selling or renting property or want guidance on applying for one of the residency programmes, do not hesitate to contact us.