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Malta Visa Processing Time: Comprehensive Guide for Work, Student, Tourist, and Schengen Visas

Last Update: 12-12-2024

Malta

When planning a trip to Malta, it’s crucial to understand the visa processing time to ensure a smooth journey. Whether you’re traveling for tourism, business, study, or to visit family, the type of visa required and its processing time can significantly affect your travel plans. This guide provides detailed insights into the Malta visa processing time, covering both short stay and long stay visas.

Table of Contents


  1. Malta Short Stay Schengen Visa Processing Time
  2. Malta Long Stay Visa Processing Time
  3. Malta Work Permit Processing Time
  4. Key Considerations for Applying for a Malta Visa
  5. FAQs

Malta Short Stay Schengen Visa Processing Time

If you’re planning a trip to Malta for up to 90 days, you’ll need a Schengen visa, which allows you to move freely across other Schengen countries as well. A Malta Schengen visa processing time usually takes around 3 weeks to process. The Malta short stay visa processing time varies depending on the type of visit:

Malta Tourist Visa Processing Time

A Malta tourist visa typically takes around 3 weeks to process. To ensure timely issuance, it is advisable to apply at least 4 weeks prior to your planned departure date. This gives you ample time to accommodate any delays due to high application volumes.


Required Documents for Malta tourist visa:

  • Passport: Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned stay and not older than 10 years.
  • Visa application form: Completed and signed by the applicant.
  • Photocopies: Copies of all documents, including the passport, must be submitted with the application.
  • Visa Fees: Ensure you have the correct amount for the visa fee and VFS logistic fee. Exact change is recommended.
  • Other essentials: Copy of Aadhaar card (with photocopy), proof of accommodation in Malta, and travel insurance covering the entire stay.

Malta Business Visa Processing Time

The processing time for a Malta business visa is around 3 weeks. This visa allows you to participate in short business trips such as meetings, conferences, and seminars within the Schengen area, including Malta. It’s recommended to apply well in advance due to the increased application load.


Documents Required for Malta Business Visa:

  • Copies of all documents, including passport, must be included in the application.
  • Visa Fees: Ensure you have the correct amount for the visa fee and VFS logistic fee.
  • Proof of business activities: An invitation letter from the Maltese company hosting your business activities.
  • Additional documentation may include a declaration of proof of business and a copy of the host's ID card.

Processing Time for Visiting Family and Friends Visa

If you’re traveling to Malta to visit family or friends, the processing time to process the visa would take around 15 calendar days. It’s important to apply well in advance to avoid last-minute disruptions.


Required Documents for Visiting Family and Friends at Malta :

  • Passport: Valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned stay.
  • Visa application form: Complete and signed.
  • Copies of all documents: Including passport, should be submitted with the application.
  • Visa Fees: Correct amount for the visa fee and VFS logistic fee.
  • Invitation letter from the family member in Malta, legalized by the Maltese authorities.
  • Proof of relationship to the host: Birth or marriage certificate, as applicable.

Malta Students Visa Processing Time

Students looking to study in Malta for a period of less than 90 days will need a Malta student visa. The processing time for this visa is around 3 weeks. To ensure the timely issuance, it’s recommended to apply at least 4 weeks prior to departure.


Required Documents for Malta Student Visa:

  • Passport: Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended stay.
  • Visa application form: Complete and signed by the applicant.
  • Copies of all documents, including passport, should be submitted with the application.
  • Visa Fees: Correct amount for the visa fee and VFS logistic fee.
  • Letter of acceptance from a Maltese educational institution.
  • Proof of accommodation and financial means: Evidence that you can support your stay in Malta.

Malta Long Stay Visa Processing Time

For stays longer than 90 days, such as employment, study, or family reunification in Malta, a long stay visa (D Visa) is required. The processing time for a long stay visa is approximately 6 to 8 weeks. This visa grants the holder entry into Malta for purposes such as employment, study, or family reunification. The process begins with the submission of an application at the VFS Global Service Centre or online through the Maltese Embassy’s portal.


Documents Required for Malta Long Stay Visa:

  • Valid passport with at least 3 months validity beyond the intended stay.
  • Completed visa application form.
  • One recent passport-sized photograph.
  • Proof of accommodation in Malta.
  • Travel medical insurance for the duration of stay.
  • Financial statements showing sufficient funds for the stay.
  • Letter of invitation from a Maltese sponsor (if applicable).
  • A medical report may be required for those seeking visas for medical or humanitarian purposes.

Note:

Additional documents may be required for your Malta long stay visa based on the purpose of your visit, such as employment contracts, acceptance letters, or proof of family ties.

Types of Malta Long-Stay Visas

The Malta Long-Stay Visa is versatile, catering to various reasons for extended stay. The most common categories include:

Visa TypePurpose of VisitDocuments Required

Employment Visa

Work in Malta for more than 90 days

  • Proof of Employment: A letter from the employer detailing position, salary, and tenure duration.
  • Employment License: Issued by Jobsplus or Approval in Principle from Identità (Malta's Identity and Nationality Authority) for specific employment categories.
  • Proof of accommodation: A notarised declaration from a host or rental agreement.
  • Financial evidence: Bank statement of the main sponsor showing adequate funds.

Study Visa

Study in Malta for more than 90 days

  • Acceptance letter from a Maltese educational institution: Including details of the course, duration, and proof of payment.
  • Proof of accommodation: A notarised declaration from a host or rental agreement.

Family Reunification Visa

Join family in Malta for more than 90 days

  • Family reunification certificate issued by Identità.
  • Marriage and birth certificates legalised in the country of origin.
  • Letter of invitation from the spouse or parent in Malta, notarised by a notary or lawyer.
  • Proof of dependency (financial transactions showing maintenance).

Business Visa

Conduct business activities in Malta for more than 90 days

  • Declaration of proof: Includes copies of the host’s ID card and documents showing a business relationship.
  • Proof of business activities between applicants and the invitee.

Humanitarian Visa

Visit for humanitarian reasons for more than 90 days

  • Covering letter by the applicant explaining the humanitarian reason for the visit.

Malta Work Permit Processing Time

Processing time for a Malta work permit can typically be around 2 to 4 months depending on the type of permit you’re applying for. Non-EU nationals must obtain a residence permit to be employed in Malta. To qualify for a work permit, a third-country national must have a valid employment offer from a Maltese employer.

Types of Work Permits in Malta

The Malta work permit system offers several types of employment-related permits:

  • Single Permit: It Allows third-country nationals to reside and work in Malta. Malta single permit is valid only if the main criteria (job designation, employer, and duration) continue to be met.
  • Self-Employment Permit: Issued for individuals intending to work independently in Malta. It Requires proof of business setup and financial stability.
  • Employment for Less than Six Months: Issued for short-term employment which is less than 6 months. Limited to specific sectors such as agriculture, tourism, or seasonal work.
  • Blue Card: For highly skilled non-EU workers. A Malta blue card offers residence and work rights across the EU.
  • Intra-Corporate Transferee Permit: Allows employees from non-EU companies to transfer to a Maltese branch. In order to obtain a Intra-Corporate Transferee Permit. the applicant must have been employed by the company for a minimum period and fulfil specific employment criteria.

Key Considerations for Applying for a Malta Visa

When applying for a Malta visa, it’s crucial to apply early—ideally, at least 4 weeks before your planned travel date. This timeline allows for any delays due to high demand or additional requirements from the High Commission. Familiarize yourself with the visa application process, including the required forms and submission locations. Follow VFS Global’s tracking option to monitor your visa application status.


For any visa-related queries or assistance with the application process, contact VFS Global directly. They provide comprehensive support and guidance, ensuring your application meets all necessary criteria.

Final Thoughts

Prepare your documents well in advance when applying for a Malta visa to avoid delays. Familiarize yourself with the visa application process, including the required forms and submission locations. For any help, contact VFS Global directly. As you look forward to exploring the beautiful landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture of Malta, make sure your visa application is on track for a smooth journey.


Safe Travels!

FAQs

What is the processing time for a Malta Schengen visa?

The processing time is usually around 3 weeks. It’s advisable to apply at least 4 weeks before your planned departure to account for any delays.

How long does it take to process a Malta tourist visa?

A Malta tourist visa typically takes 3 weeks to process. Apply well in advance to avoid any delay.

How long does it take to process a Malta student visa?

The processing time for a Malta student visa is around 3 weeks. Although it is advised to apply at least 4 weeks before your intended travel date.

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