Malta

Malta Student Visa Application Process 

To apply for a Malta student visa, follow these steps:

1. Contact the Maltese embassy, consulate, or visa application office in your country to schedule an appointment.
2. Gather all required documents, including a valid passport, completed application form, passport-size photos, letter of acceptance from the university, proof of financial means, health insurance, and language test results.
3. Submit your application form, fee payment, and supporting documents at your appointment. Ensure the form is fully completed and signed.
4. Expect a response within four weeks, which may come via text message or email from the embassy.

After Entering Malta with a Student Visa

Upon entry to Malta with a student visa, you must apply for a Maltese temporary residence permit within three months. EU/EEA/Swiss citizens need a registration certificate within the same timeframe.

Malta Student Visa Application Requirements

When applying for a student visa in Malta, provide:

1. Complete and sign the application form.
2. Provide one recent passport-sized color photograph with a white background (3.5cm by 4.5cm). Do not staple the photographs to the application form.
3. Ensure the passport/travel document: a) Is valid for at least 3 months after the intended stay. b) Has been issued within the previous 10 years and is not valid for more than 10 years. c) Contains at least 3 blank pages.
4. Obtain overseas travel medical insurance valid for all Schengen countries, with coverage of at least 30,000 Euros for all risks. The policy must specify the period of validity and cover at least 91 days from the date of travel to Malta.
5. Provide a confirmed travel itinerary with travel dates. A confirmed return flight ticket may be requested before the visa is issued.
6. Present proof of sufficient funds equivalent to 75% of the national minimum wage for every month of study, covering all expenses (tuition fee + daily expenses) throughout the study period. If parents/legal guardians are sponsoring, include: a) A letter from the bank stating the available balance. b) The last 6 months’ original bank statement of the student or sponsor. c) Income Tax Returns (ITRs) for the last 3 years, accompanied by the CPC acknowledgment (verified). d) An Affidavit of Sponsorship.
7. Include the original Letter of Acceptance from the educational institute in Malta, detailing course dates, cost, duration, title, contact hours per week, credits awarded, acceptance for the course, and accommodation details if provided.
8. Attach course details, including a copy of the timetable and schedule of lessons for each month of study.
9. Provide proof of accommodation for the first six months of residence in Malta or the duration of the course, such as:
   • Confirmed hotel booking.
   • Signed lease contract.
   • Completed “Declaration of Proof” signed by the invitee, along with a photocopy of the invitee’s Malta ID card or passport and relevant supporting documents, witnessed by a Maltese Public Notary.
10. Include proof of payment received by the educational institution for the entire course period.
11. Submit original educational certificates apostilled by the Ministry of External Affairs of the issuing country, along with photocopies. The original certificates will be returned with the passport.
12. Provide the original and photocopy of the passport bio page.
13. Include the Aadhaar Card.

Processing Time and Duration of Stay

The processing time for a Maltese student visa is typically four weeks, though it can extend to 8-9 weeks depending on circumstances. The visa allows a maximum stay of 365 days. For longer courses, a residence permit is necessary, renewable for the duration of studies.

Staying in Malta After Graduation

After graduation, you can stay in Malta by finding employment and applying for a work permit. Alternatively, you can extend your student visa for six months while seeking employment.

Work Opportunities and Family Accompaniment

With a student visa, you can work in Malta for up to 20 hours per week. Family members can join you if you obtain a residence permit, provided they are your spouse or minor children and you can support them financially.

Permanent Residence in Malta

You cannot obtain permanent residence directly with a student visa. After five years on a work visa, you may apply for permanent residence.