Malta Visit Visa

To visit Malta, non-EU citizens typically require a Schengen Visa, which allows for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Here’s a detailed overview of the application process, requirements, and other essential information regarding the Malta Visit Visa.

What is a Malta Visit Visa?

A Malta visit visa is a type of short-stay visa that allows travelers to enter Malta for tourism or family visits. This visa typically permits stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. It is essential for non-EU/EEA citizens who wish to visit Malta, as citizens from certain countries must obtain a visa before arrival. The application process involves providing necessary documentation and meeting specific eligibility criteria.

Types of Malta Visit Visas

There are several types of visit visas available for Malta, catering to different travel needs:

Single-entry visa: Allows travelers to enter Malta once during the visa’s validity period.
Multiple-entry visa: Permits multiple entries into Malta within the visa’s validity period, ideal for travelers who plan to visit neighboring countries.
Transit visa: For those passing through Malta on their way to a third country; this visa allows for a short stay in the airport or designated transit areas only.

Eligibility Criteria for Malta Visit Visa

To be eligible for a Malta visit visa, applicants must meet several requirements:

Valid passport or travel document: The passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the intended stay in Malta.
Proof of accommodation: This can be in the form of hotel bookings or an invitation letter from a host in Malta.
Proof of financial stability: Applicants must demonstrate their ability to support themselves during their stay through bank statements or sponsorship letters.
Health insurance coverage: A valid health insurance policy covering medical expenses is mandatory.
No prior criminal record: Applicants should not have any serious criminal convictions.
Purpose of visit: The visa application must clearly state the purpose of the visit, whether it is tourism or visiting family and friends.

Documents Required for Malta Visit Visa Application

To successfully apply for a Malta visit visa, applicants must prepare and submit several essential documents. These documents help verify identity, purpose of travel, and financial capability. The required documents include:

Passport-sized photos: Two recent passport-sized photographs that meet Schengen visa photo guidelines (35x40mm) are necessary.
Valid passport: The passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the planned stay in Malta and should have at least two blank pages for visa stamps.
Travel itinerary or flight bookings: A detailed travel itinerary or confirmed flight bookings to demonstrate travel plans is required.
Hotel accommodation or invitation letter: Proof of accommodation, such as hotel reservations or an invitation letter from a host in Malta, must be provided.
Proof of funds: Applicants must show proof of sufficient funds to cover their stay, typically through bank statements from the last three months.
Travel insurance: A travel insurance policy covering medical expenses with a minimum coverage of €30,000 is mandatory.
Visa application form: The completed and signed visa application form is essential for processing the application.
Visa fee payment receipt: Proof of payment for the visa application fee must be included with the application.

How to Apply for a Malta Visit Visa

The process for applying for a Malta visit visa involves several steps:

Collect required documents: Gather all necessary documents listed above to ensure a complete application.
Fill out the visa application form: Complete the application form accurately without leaving any blank spaces.
Submit documents: Present the collected documents at the Malta Visa Application Center or the nearest Maltese embassy.
Pay the visa application fee: The fee must be paid at the time of submission; keep the receipt as proof.
Attend the interview (if necessary): Some applicants may be required to attend an interview as part of the application process.
Wait for the decision: After submission, applicants must wait for a decision on their visa application, which typically takes around 15 calendar days.

Visa Fees for Malta Visit Visa

The visa fee structure varies based on age and application type:

Adults: Generally, adults are required to pay a standard fee.
Children: There may be reduced fees or exemptions for children under a certain age.
Additional fees may apply for expedited processing if available.
Payment methods accepted include cash and bank transfers, depending on the embassy or consulate’s policies.

Visa Processing Time for Malta Visit Visa

The typical processing time for a Malta visit visa is approximately 15 calendar days. However, several factors can influence this duration:

High-season applications: During peak travel seasons, processing times may increase due to higher volumes of applications.
Missing documents: If any required documents are missing or incomplete, this can delay processing as authorities may request additional information.

Visa Refusal and How to Appeal

Visa refusals can occur for various reasons, including:

Lack of sufficient funds to support oneself during the stay.
Missing or incomplete documentation.
Failure to demonstrate a clear purpose for the visit.

If a visa application is refused, applicants can take specific steps:

Review refusal reasons: Understand why the visa was denied by reviewing the refusal notice.
Appeal process: Applicants may have the option to appeal the decision through formal channels outlined in the refusal notice.
Reapplication tips: If reapplying, ensure that all previous issues are addressed and that all documentation is complete and accurate to enhance chances of approval.

Traveling with a Malta Visit Visa

Upon arrival in Malta, travelers holding a visit visa must go through border control. Here’s what to expect:

Border Control: Present your passport and visa to the immigration officer. The officer will verify your documents and may ask about the purpose of your visit.
Passport Stamping: Once cleared, your passport will be stamped, indicating your entry into Malta. Ensure that the stamp reflects the correct date of entry.

If you find that you need to extend your stay beyond the initial visa duration, it is crucial to apply for an extension before the visa expires. Extensions are typically granted under specific circumstances, such as unforeseen events or emergencies. To apply for an extension, you will need to visit the relevant authorities in Malta and provide documentation justifying your request.

Malta Visit Visa for Family and Friends

For those wishing to visit family or friends in Malta, a specific application process is required for a family visit visa. Here’s how to apply:

Application Process: The applicant must complete a visa application form specifically for family visits. This can be done online or at the Maltese embassy/consulate.
Requirements for Inviting Family or Friends:
- Invitation Letter: The host in Malta must provide a formal invitation letter detailing their relationship with the visitor and the purpose of the visit.
- Proof of Relationship: Documentation that establishes the relationship between the visitor and the host, such as birth certificates or marriage certificates, may be required.
Financial Support Considerations: The host must demonstrate their ability to financially support the visitor during their stay. This could include providing bank statements or proof of income.

Malta Visit Visa for Business Purposes

Traveling to Malta for business purposes requires a specific type of visa, commonly referred to as the Malta Business Visa or Schengen Business Visa. This visa is designed for individuals who intend to engage in business activities such as attending meetings, conferences, or other business events within Malta.

Business Visa Requirements

To apply for a Malta Business Visa, applicants must provide several key documents:

Employer’s Letter: A letter from your employer outlining your position, the purpose of your visit, and the duration of your stay.
Business Invitation: An invitation letter from the Maltese company or organization you will be visiting. This letter should detail the nature of the business relationship and the events you will attend.
Proof of Occupation: Documentation that verifies your employment status, such as an employment contract or a business license if self-employed.
Financial Documentation: Recent bank statements (typically from the last three months) to demonstrate financial stability during your stay.
Travel Itinerary: A detailed itinerary including flight bookings and accommodation arrangements.
Travel Insurance: A policy covering medical expenses up to €30,000, valid for the entire duration of your stay in Malta.

This visa typically allows for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period and can be issued as a single-entry, double-entry, or multiple-entry visa.

Important Tips for Malta Visa Applicants

To ensure a smooth application process for a Malta visit visa, applicants should consider the following important tips:

Passport Validity: Ensure that your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your planned stay in Malta. It should also have at least two blank pages available for visa stamping.
Apply in Advance: Submit your visa application well in advance—ideally 3 to 4 weeks before your intended travel date. This allows ample time for processing and any potential delays.
Complete Documentation: Double-check that all required documents are complete and accurate. Incomplete applications can lead to delays or refusals. Ensure that all documents are translated into English if necessary.
Follow Up on Application Status: After submission, keep track of your application status through the relevant embassy or visa application center.

Can I Travel to Other Schengen Countries with a Malta Visit Visa?

Malta is a member of the Schengen Area, a group of 27 European countries that have abolished passports and other types of border control at their mutual borders, allowing for the free movement of people. When you obtain a Malta visit visa, which is essentially a Schengen visa, you gain access not only to Malta but also to all other Schengen member states.

Travel Flexibility with a Malta Visit Visa

Holders of a Malta visit visa can travel freely within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This means that if you enter Malta with this visa, you can visit other Schengen countries without needing to apply for additional visas. However, there are some guidelines to keep in mind:

Primary Destination Rule: If you plan to visit multiple Schengen countries, your primary destination should be the country where you will spend the most time. For example, if Malta is your first stop and you plan to spend the majority of your trip there, it should be listed as your main destination on your visa application.
Travel Itinerary: When applying for the visa, ensure that your travel itinerary covers all intended destinations within the Schengen Area. This includes providing travel tickets for both entry and exit from the Schengen Zone.
90/180 Rule: The 90/180 rule applies across the entire Schengen Area. This means that your total stay in all Schengen countries combined cannot exceed 90 days within any 180-day period. Therefore, careful planning is essential to avoid overstaying.

In conclusion, obtaining a Malta visit visa is a straightforward process that grants access to a rich cultural and historical experience in one of the Mediterranean’s most captivating destinations. With careful preparation, including gathering required documents and applying in advance, travelers can enjoy Malta’s vibrant atmosphere and explore other Schengen countries, making the most of their journey.

How Law and Visas Can Help?

At Law and Visas, our team of expert immigration consultants is here to make your travel to the Malta Area straightforward and successful. Whether you’re applying for a Malta Visit Visa, we handle every step—from preparing your application to gathering the required documents.

Our immigration lawyer consultants and Lawyers ensure that your application meets the highest standards, with no details missed. We’ll also keep you informed throughout the process, coordinating with the immigration office or embassy on your behalf.

Law and Visas has a strong record of helping clients secure the visas and permits they need for international travel. Call us today at +234 812 5505 986 to learn how we can assist you.