Visa requirements

Malta

General visa requirements for travelling to Malta. These policies apply to all nationalities unless a country-specific policy exists.

Have a specific passport country? Check your specific route.

Business visa (Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) - Business)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 90 days
Processing time: 15 calendar days standard, up to 45 calendar days if additional checks needed
Fee: EUR 90 (adults), EUR 45 (children 6-12), free (children under 6)
Validity: 90 days within any 180-day period
Entry: Single entry

Schengen Type C visa for business meetings, conferences, trade fairs, and professional activities not involving employment in Malta. Frequent business travelers may be eligible for multiple-entry visas valid for 1-5 years. An invitation letter from a Malta-based business is required; otherwise the applicant must apply as a tourist.

Eligibility

Nationality
Nationals of Annex I countries under EU Regulation 2018/1806.
Purpose of visit
Business meetings, conferences, trade fairs, negotiations, or professional consultations. Must not involve paid employment in Malta.
Includes
- Business meetings
- conferences
- trade fairs
- negotiations
- professional consultations
Financial
Must demonstrate sufficient financial means, either personal or through company sponsorship.

Minimum funds: EUR 48/day

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3
Photo
Count: 2; Specifications: 35x45mm, taken against a light background, ICAO compliant
Bank statement
Months required: 3
Employment letter
Provide a signed employer letter confirming your role, leave dates, salary and return to work.

Must include leave approval: Yes; Must include position: Yes; Must include salary: Yes
Travel insurance
Minimum coverage: 30000
Accommodation proof
Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.

Accepted types: Hotel reservation or confirmation of accommodation arranged by the inviting company; Must cover full stay: No
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

Must be confirmed: Yes; Must show return: Yes
Invitation letter
Host requirements: Invitation letter from a Malta-based company or organization, signed and recent (not older than 1 month), specifying the purpose of visit, duration of stay, travel dates, and arrangements for accommodation/travel. Must include company registration details.
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Schengen visa application form
Cover letter
Explain the purpose of travel, travel dates, who will pay, and why you will leave before the visa or permission expires.
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: ["cash", "card"]; Amount: EUR 90

How to apply

Document gathering
Gather all required documents including business invitation letter, employer letter, passport, photos, insurance, and financial proof. All documents must be in English or Maltese.
Online application
Complete the Schengen visa application form.
Appointment booking
Book an appointment at the Maltese embassy, consulate, or authorized VFS Global center.
Fee payment
Pay the visa application fee of EUR 90.
Document submission
Submit all documents in person during your appointment.
Biometrics
Provide biometric data (fingerprints and photograph) unless recorded within the past 59 months.
Processing wait
Wait for processing, typically 15 calendar days.
Visa collection
Collect your passport with the visa sticker.

Work / Immigration visa (Key Employee Initiative (KEI) - Fast Track)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 365 days
Processing time: 5 working days (fast-track)
Fee: EUR 600 (initial application)
Validity: 1 year initially, renewable for up to 3 years at a time
Entry: Multiple entry

The Key Employee Initiative (KEI) is Malta's fast-track work permit option for highly skilled professionals. Processing takes only 5 working days. Applicants must have a managerial or highly technical position with a minimum annual gross salary of EUR 45,000 and proof of relevant experience. Initially valid for 1 year, renewable for up to 3 years at a time.

Eligibility

Nationality
Third-country nationals (non-EU/EEA/Swiss).
Employment
Must have a job offer for a managerial or highly technical role. Minimum annual gross salary of EUR 45,000. Must demonstrate proof of relevant experience.

Required status: Managerial or highly technical role with EUR 45,000+ salary
Criminal record
Must have a clean criminal record.

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
Accommodation proof
Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.

Accepted types: Proof of accommodation in Malta; Must cover full stay: No
Police clearance
Validity months: 0
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: ["bank_transfer", "card"]; Amount: EUR 600
Curriculum vitae
Provide a current CV showing education, work history and relevant qualifications.
Work contract
Provide a signed job offer, contract or assignment letter showing the role, dates and employer.

Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: No

How to apply

Document gathering
Gather passport, employment contract meeting KEI salary threshold, CV, criminal record certificate, health insurance, and accommodation proof.
Online application
Employer submits KEI application via the Identità online portal with all supporting documents.
Fee payment
Pay the application fee of EUR 600.
Processing wait
Fast-track processing of 5 working days.
Visa collection
Once approved, obtain D visa if required and enter Malta. Collect residence card from Identità after biometrics.

Journalist visa (Schengen Visa-Free Short Stay - Journalist/Media (Annex II Countries))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Visa free

Maximum stay: 90 days
Processing time: Immediate
Fee: Free
Validity: 90 days within any 180-day period
Entry: Multiple entry

Journalists from visa-exempt Annex II countries can enter Malta for media assignments without a visa for up to 90 days. For specific events, separate media accreditation may be required from event organizers.

Eligibility

Nationality
Journalists from Annex II visa-exempt countries.
Purpose of visit
Journalism, media coverage, or press event attendance.
Includes
- Journalism
- media coverage
- press events

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3
Press credentials
Provide a press card, assignment letter or accreditation from the media organisation you represent.

Tourist visa (Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) - Tourism)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 90 days
Processing time: 15 calendar days standard, up to 45 calendar days if additional checks needed
Fee: EUR 90 (adults), EUR 45 (children 6-12), free (children under 6)
Validity: 90 days within any 180-day period
Entry: Single entry

Standard Schengen Type C visa for tourism purposes. Nationals of Annex I countries under EU Regulation 2018/1806 must apply at a Maltese embassy, consulate, or authorized VFS Global center. Applications may be submitted 6 months to 15 days before travel. Multiple-entry visas with longer validity may be issued for frequent travelers. Countries not cooperating on readmission may face higher fees of EUR 135 or EUR 180. All documents must be in English or Maltese.

Eligibility

Nationality
Nationals of Annex I countries under EU Regulation 2018/1806 who require a Schengen visa for short stays.
Financial
Must demonstrate sufficient financial means to cover accommodation, living expenses (minimum EUR 48/day), and return travel.

Minimum funds: EUR 48/day
Purpose of visit
Must demonstrate genuine tourism purpose with a clear itinerary and return travel plans.
Includes
- Tourism
Criminal record
Must not be listed in the Schengen Information System (SIS). Must not pose a threat to public policy, internal security, or public health.

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3
Photo
Count: 2; Specifications: 35x45mm, taken against a light background, showing the full face without head covering, ICAO standards
Bank statement
Months required: 3
Travel insurance
Minimum coverage: 30000
Accommodation proof
Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.

Accepted types: Hotel reservation, rental agreement, or invitation letter from a host in Malta with proof of their accommodation; Must cover full stay: No
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

Must be confirmed: Yes; Must show return: Yes
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Schengen visa application form
Cover letter
Explain the purpose of travel, travel dates, who will pay, and why you will leave before the visa or permission expires.
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: ["cash", "card"]; Amount: EUR 90

How to apply

Document gathering
Gather all required documents including passport, photos, insurance, financial proof, accommodation proof, flight reservations, and cover letter. All documents must be in English or Maltese; certified translations required otherwise.
Online application
Complete the Schengen visa application form online or download and fill out the paper form.
Appointment booking
Book an appointment at the Maltese embassy, consulate, or authorized VFS Global center in your country of residence. VFS Global handles applications from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Ukraine, United Kingdom, and Türkiye.
Fee payment
Pay the visa application fee of EUR 90 (adults) at the time of submission. Additional VFS Global service fees may apply.
Document submission
Submit all documents in person at the embassy, consulate, or VFS Global center during your appointment.
Biometrics
Provide biometric data (10 fingerprints and digital photograph). Children under 12 are exempt from fingerprinting. Not required if biometrics were recorded for another Schengen visa within the past 59 months.
Processing wait
Wait for processing, typically 15 calendar days. May take up to 45 days if additional checks are required.
Visa collection
Collect your passport with the visa sticker from the embassy, consulate, or VFS Global center.

Journalist visa (Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) - Journalist/Media)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 90 days
Processing time: 15 calendar days standard, up to 45 calendar days
Fee: EUR 90 (adults)
Validity: 90 days within any 180-day period
Entry: Single entry

Malta does not have a separate journalist or press visa category. Journalists from visa-required countries apply for a standard Schengen Type C visa with media/journalism as the stated purpose. Journalists from visa-exempt (Annex II) countries can enter without a visa for up to 90 days. For specific events in Malta (conferences, summits), advance media accreditation may be required through event organizers, with a valid press ID. Visa-related queries can be directed to [email protected].

Eligibility

Nationality
Nationals of Annex I countries who are professional journalists or media workers.
Purpose of visit
Must be traveling for journalism, media coverage, reporting, or attending press events in Malta. Must provide valid press credentials.
Includes
- Journalism
- media coverage
- reporting
- press events

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3
Photo
Count: 2; Specifications: 35x45mm
Travel insurance
Minimum coverage: 30000
Accommodation proof
Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.

Accepted types: Hotel reservation or accommodation proof; Must cover full stay: No
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

Must be confirmed: No; Must show return: Yes
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Schengen visa application form
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: ["cash", "card"]; Amount: EUR 90
Press credentials
Provide a press card, assignment letter or accreditation from the media organisation you represent.

How to apply

Document gathering
Gather passport, photos, press credentials, assignment letter from media organization, insurance, accommodation proof, and financial proof.
Online application
Complete the Schengen visa application form indicating journalism/media as purpose.
Appointment booking
Book an appointment at the Maltese embassy, consulate, or VFS Global center.
Fee payment
Pay the visa application fee of EUR 90.
Document submission
Submit all documents in person.
Biometrics
Provide biometric data unless recorded within past 59 months.
Processing wait
Wait for processing, typically 15 calendar days.
Visa collection
Collect passport with visa sticker. For event coverage, obtain media accreditation separately from event organizers.

Student visa (National Visa D - Student)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 365 days
Processing time: 8 to 12 weeks; apply at least 3 months before intended travel date
Fee: EUR 100 (D Visa application fee)
Validity: Up to 1 year (D Visa); then must apply for temporary residence permit, renewable for duration of studies
Entry: Multiple entry

National D Visa for students enrolled at a recognized educational institution in Malta. As of March 1, 2024, ALL third-country nationals (including those from visa-exempt Annex II countries) must apply for a Long-Stay D Visa if their study period exceeds 90 days. The course must be at least 105 days (15 weeks) to qualify. After entering Malta, students must apply for a Maltese temporary residence permit within the first 3 months. Short-stay Type C visas cannot be extended or converted to a residence permit. Students may work limited hours during their studies.

Eligibility

Nationality
All third-country nationals (non-EU/EEA/Swiss) who have been accepted at a recognized educational institution in Malta. Includes nationals of both Annex I and Annex II countries for courses exceeding 90 days.
Purpose of visit
Must be enrolled in a full-time study programme at a licensed institution in Malta. Course must be at least 105 days (15 weeks).
Includes
- Full-time study
Financial
Must demonstrate sufficient financial means: EUR 3,000 minimum in bank account plus EUR 7,000 for TRC application. Must cover tuition fees and living expenses.

Minimum funds: EUR 3,000 + EUR 7,000 for TRC
Health
Must have adequate private health insurance coverage valid in Malta.

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 8
Photo
Count: 2; Specifications: 35x45mm, ICAO compliant, not older than 6 months
Bank statement
Months required: 6
Travel insurance
Minimum coverage: 30000
Accommodation proof
Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.

Accepted types: Rental agreement, student dormitory confirmation, or host declaration; Must cover full stay: No
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Long-stay visa (D Visa) application form
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: ["cash", "card"]; Amount: EUR 100
Proof of enrollment
Provide proof of enrolment or admission from the school, university or training provider.

Must be current: No; Must be original: No

How to apply

Document gathering
Obtain admission letter from Maltese institution. Gather passport, photos, financial proof, accommodation proof, health insurance, educational documents, and certified translations if needed.
Online application
Complete the long-stay D Visa application form. Application can be submitted through VFS Global Extended Service.
Appointment booking
Book an appointment at the Maltese embassy, consulate, or VFS Global center in your country of residence.
Fee payment
Pay the D Visa application fee.
Document submission
Submit all documents in person (originals + copies) at the embassy, consulate, or VFS Global center.
Biometrics
Provide biometric data (fingerprints and photograph).
Processing wait
Wait for processing, typically 8-12 weeks. Apply well in advance of course start date. Peak periods around academic terms may extend processing times.
Visa collection
Collect passport with D Visa. Upon arrival in Malta, apply for a Temporary Residence Card (TRC) within the first 3 months. Contact the Central Visa Unit not before 30 days and not later than 21 days before visa expiry for extensions.

Diplomatic visa (National Visa D - Diplomatic/Official)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 365 days
Processing time: Varies; typically expedited for diplomatic personnel
Fee: None (exempt)
Validity: Duration of diplomatic assignment; renewable
Entry: Multiple entry

National D Visa for diplomatic and official passport holders assigned to Malta for stays exceeding 90 days. Diplomatic passport holders from some countries may be exempt from short-stay visa requirements under bilateral agreements, but this varies by nationality. For short stays (up to 90 days), holders of diplomatic passports from many countries are exempt from the Schengen visa requirement. Long-stay diplomatic visas require supporting diplomatic documentation. Holders of a United Nations laissez-passer do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days regardless of nationality.

Eligibility

Nationality
Third-country nationals holding diplomatic or official/service passports assigned to diplomatic missions, consular posts, or international organizations in Malta.
Purpose of visit
Diplomatic assignment, official government business, or international organization posting in Malta.
Includes
- Diplomatic assignment
- official government business
- international organization posting

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 0; Validity months: 6
Photo
Count: 1; Specifications: 35x45mm, ICAO compliant
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Long-stay D Visa application form for diplomatic purpose

How to apply

Document gathering
Gather diplomatic passport, credentials, note verbale, appointment confirmation, and photograph.
Document submission
Submit application through diplomatic channels (Ministry of Foreign Affairs) or at the Maltese embassy.
Processing wait
Processing is typically expedited for diplomatic personnel.
Visa collection
Collect passport with diplomatic D Visa.

Transit visa (Airport Transit Visa (Type A))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 1 days
Processing time: 15 calendar days
Fee: EUR 90
Validity: Valid for the date(s) of transit only
Entry: Single entry

Required for nationals of the 12 common-list countries transiting through the international transit zone of Malta International Airport without entering Malta. Malta follows only the common EU list and does not impose additional ATV requirements beyond these 12 countries. Exempt if holding: a valid Schengen visa or national long-stay visa from any Schengen country, a valid residence permit from a Schengen member state, a valid visa from EU/EEA member states, Canada, Japan, or the USA, or a diplomatic passport. Double and multiple ATVs are also available.

Eligibility

Nationality
Required only for nationals of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Democratic Republic of Congo, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Iran, Iraq, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia, and Sri Lanka.

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 0; Validity months: 3
Photo
Count: 2; Specifications: 35x45mm, ICAO compliant
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

Must be confirmed: Yes; Must show return: Yes
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Schengen visa application form
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: ["cash", "card"]; Amount: EUR 90

How to apply

Document gathering
Gather passport, photos, confirmed onward flight tickets, and any visa for the destination country.
Online application
Complete the Schengen visa application form for airport transit.
Appointment booking
Book an appointment at the Maltese embassy or consulate.
Fee payment
Pay the visa fee of EUR 90.
Document submission
Submit all documents in person.
Biometrics
Provide biometric data if not recorded within the past 59 months.
Processing wait
Wait for processing, typically 15 calendar days.
Visa collection
Collect passport with the transit visa sticker.

Transit visa (Schengen Transit Visa (Type C - Transit))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 5 days
Processing time: 15 calendar days
Fee: EUR 90
Validity: Up to 5 days for transit through the Schengen area
Entry: Single entry

Required for Annex I nationals who need to pass through Malta and the Schengen area (with passport control) to reach a non-Schengen destination. This is distinct from the Airport Transit Visa (Type A) which is only for staying in the international transit zone. If changing airports or taking connecting flights through two Schengen airports, a regular Schengen Type C visa is required rather than an ATV.

Eligibility

Nationality
Nationals of Annex I countries who need to transit through the Schengen area with passport control.
Purpose of visit
Transit only. Must have valid visa or entry permission for the final destination country.
Includes
- Transit

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3
Photo
Count: 2; Specifications: 35x45mm
Travel insurance
Minimum coverage: 30000
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

Must be confirmed: Yes; Must show return: Yes
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Schengen visa application form
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: ["cash", "card"]; Amount: EUR 90

How to apply

Document gathering
Gather passport, photos, transit flight tickets, destination visa, and insurance.
Online application
Complete Schengen visa application form for transit purpose.
Appointment booking
Book appointment at Maltese embassy or consulate.
Fee payment
Pay visa fee of EUR 90.
Document submission
Submit all documents in person.
Biometrics
Provide biometric data if not recorded within 59 months.
Processing wait
Wait for processing, typically 15 calendar days.
Visa collection
Collect passport with transit visa sticker.

Tourist visa (EU/EEA/Swiss Freedom of Movement)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Visa free

Processing time: Immediate
Fee: Free
Validity: Unlimited
Entry: Multiple entry

EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals enjoy full freedom of movement within Malta. No visa or residence permit is required for any length of stay. Citizens can enter with a valid passport or national identity card. They have the right to live, work, and study freely. After staying more than 3 months, registration of residence at the local council is required.

Eligibility

Nationality
Citizens of EU member states, EEA countries (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway), and Switzerland have the right to freedom of movement and may enter, reside, and work in Malta without restrictions.

Eligible countries: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland

Documents you need

Passport
Validity months: 0

How to apply

Document gathering
Ensure you have a valid passport or national identity card from an EU/EEA country or Switzerland.
Document submission
Present your passport or ID card at the Maltese border for entry.

Medical visa (National Visa D - Medical Treatment (Long Stay))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 365 days
Processing time: Approximately 15 days, but may vary
Fee: EUR 100 (D Visa application fee)
Validity: Up to 1 year; extendable upon recommendation from treating medical facility
Entry: Multiple entry

National D Visa for long-term medical treatment in Malta exceeding 90 days. Applicants must demonstrate sufficient financial means to support themselves without relying on public assistance. The visa can last for the duration of treatment and may be extended if needed upon recommendation from the treating medical facility.

Eligibility

Nationality
All third-country nationals (non-EU/EEA/Swiss) requiring long-term medical treatment in Malta.
Purpose of visit
Must be undergoing specific medical treatment at a recognized facility in Malta that requires a stay exceeding 90 days.
Includes
- Long-term medical treatment
Financial
Must demonstrate sufficient financial means to cover medical and living expenses without relying on public assistance.

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 8
Photo
Count: 1; Specifications: 35x45mm, ICAO compliant
Accommodation proof
Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.

Accepted types: Proof of accommodation near the medical facility; Must cover full stay: No
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

Must be confirmed: No; Must show return: Yes
Medical certificate
Provide medical evidence from a recognised doctor or clinic when the route asks for health confirmation.
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Long-stay D Visa application form
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: ["cash", "card"]; Amount: EUR 100

How to apply

Document gathering
Obtain treatment confirmation from Maltese medical institution. Gather passport, photos, medical reports, financial proof, insurance, and accommodation proof.
Online application
Complete the long-stay D Visa application form.
Appointment booking
Book appointment at Maltese embassy, consulate, or VFS Global center.
Fee payment
Pay the D Visa application fee.
Document submission
Submit all documents in person.
Biometrics
Provide biometric data.
Processing wait
Wait for processing, approximately 15 days but may vary.
Visa collection
Collect passport with D Visa. Apply for residence permit after arrival if treatment extends beyond initial visa period.

Tourist visa (Schengen Visa-Free Short Stay (Annex II Countries))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Visa free

Maximum stay: 90 days
Processing time: Immediate
Fee: Free
Validity: 90 days within any 180-day period
Entry: Multiple entry

Nationals of Annex II countries under EU Regulation 2018/1806 may enter Malta and the Schengen Area without a visa for short stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. The visa-free regime applies to holders of biometric passports only for Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Kosovo, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, and Ukraine. ETIAS pre-travel authorization (EUR 7) will be required from late 2026. The EES (Entry/Exit System) began rollout on October 12, 2025. Vanuatu was permanently removed from Annex II effective February 2025.

Eligibility

Nationality
Must hold a passport from an Annex II country listed in EU Regulation 2018/1806. Biometric passport required for AL, BA, GE, XK, MD, ME, MK, RS.
Purpose of visit
Visit must be for tourism, business meetings, family visits, or other short-stay purposes. Not permitted to work or enroll in studies exceeding 90 days.
Includes
- Tourism
- business meetings
- family visits
- short-stay purposes
Criminal record
Must not be listed in the Schengen Information System (SIS) as inadmissible.

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3
Travel insurance
Minimum coverage: 30000
Accommodation proof
Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.

Accepted types: Hotel reservation, host invitation letter; Must cover full stay: No
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

Must be confirmed: No; Must show return: Yes

How to apply

Document gathering
Ensure your passport meets validity requirements. Prepare proof of accommodation, funds, and return travel.
Document submission
Present your passport and supporting documents at the Maltese border for entry.

Work / Immigration visa (Specialist Employee Initiative (SEI) - Fast Track)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 365 days
Processing time: 15 working days (fast-track)
Fee: EUR 600 (initial application)
Validity: 1 year, renewable
Entry: Multiple entry

The Specialist Employee Initiative (SEI) is Malta's secondary fast-track option for specialist employees. Processing takes 15 working days. Available for specialized technical roles that do not meet the KEI salary threshold but require specific expertise.

Eligibility

Nationality
Third-country nationals (non-EU/EEA/Swiss).
Employment
Must have a job offer for a specialist technical role from a Maltese employer. Must demonstrate relevant specialist expertise.

Required status: Specialist technical role

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
Police clearance
Validity months: 0
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: ["bank_transfer", "card"]; Amount: EUR 600
Curriculum vitae
Provide a current CV showing education, work history and relevant qualifications.
Work contract
Provide a signed job offer, contract or assignment letter showing the role, dates and employer.

Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: No

How to apply

Document gathering
Gather passport, employment contract, CV, criminal record certificate, health insurance, and accommodation proof.
Online application
Employer submits SEI application via the Identità online portal.
Fee payment
Pay the application fee of EUR 600.
Processing wait
Fast-track processing of 15 working days.
Visa collection
Once approved, obtain D visa if required and enter Malta. Collect residence card from Identità.

Work / Immigration visa (Single Permit - Employment (Standard))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 365 days
Processing time: Up to 4 months by law; average under 2 months when files are complete
Fee: EUR 600 (initial application), EUR 150/year (renewal)
Validity: 1 year, renewable. After 5 years of legal stay, may apply for long-term residence permit.
Entry: Multiple entry

Malta's primary work permit for third-country nationals, regulated by Subsidiary Legislation 217.17 and managed by Identità (Expatriates Unit). The Single Permit combines residence and work authorization into one application. Employer-sponsored, requiring a valid job offer. The permit is tied to the specific employer; changing jobs requires updating the permit. EU/EEA and Swiss nationals can work without a permit for 90 days; for longer employment they must register for a residence permit. Family members must apply separately for their own Single Permit to work. After 5 years of continuous legal stay, long-term residence with broader EU mobility may be granted.

Eligibility

Nationality
All third-country nationals (non-EU/EEA/Swiss) with a confirmed job offer from a Maltese employer.
Employment
Must have a confirmed job offer from a registered Maltese employer. Employer must be registered with Jobsplus. Qualifications must match the job requirements.

Required status: Confirmed job offer from registered Maltese employer
Financial
Must demonstrate financial stability until first salary. Employer provides employment contract with salary details.
Criminal record
Must have a clean criminal record.
Health
Must have valid health insurance coverage.

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
Photo
Count: 1; Specifications: 35x45mm, ICAO compliant
Accommodation proof
Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.

Accepted types: Rental agreement, hotel reservation, or letter of invitation; Must cover full stay: No
Police clearance
Validity months: 0
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: ["bank_transfer", "card"]; Amount: EUR 600
Curriculum vitae
Provide a current CV showing education, work history and relevant qualifications.
Work contract
Provide a signed job offer, contract or assignment letter showing the role, dates and employer.

Must be notarized: No; Must be translated: No

How to apply

Document gathering
Secure a job offer from a registered Maltese employer. Gather passport, photos, employment contract, CV with references, criminal record certificate, health insurance, accommodation proof, and financial proof.
Online application
Employer files via the Single Permit Online Portal at Identità and uploads all documents per the official checklists.
Fee payment
Pay the application fee of EUR 600 upon final submission.
Processing wait
Identità conducts due diligence. Processing can take up to 4 months by law, average under 2 months for complete files. An Approval in Principle (AIP) is issued upon passing checks.
Visa collection
Once approved, the employee receives an approval letter and, if required, a national D visa to enter Malta. Apply at the Maltese embassy/consulate with the AIP letter.
Biometrics
On arrival in Malta, finalize biometrics and collect the residence card from Identità.

Business visa (Schengen Visa-Free Short Stay - Business (Annex II Countries))

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Visa free

Maximum stay: 90 days
Processing time: Immediate
Fee: Free
Validity: 90 days within any 180-day period
Entry: Multiple entry

Nationals of Annex II visa-exempt countries may conduct business meetings, attend conferences, and engage in professional consultations in Malta for up to 90 days without a visa. Must not engage in paid employment.

Eligibility

Nationality
Must hold a passport from an Annex II visa-exempt country.
Purpose of visit
Business meetings, conferences, trade fairs, professional consultations. Must not involve paid employment in Malta.
Includes
- Business meetings
- conferences
- trade fairs
- professional consultations

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3
Accommodation proof
Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.

Accepted types: Proof of accommodation; Must cover full stay: No

Medical visa (Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C) - Medical Treatment)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Embassy required

Maximum stay: 90 days
Processing time: 15 calendar days standard, up to 45 calendar days
Fee: EUR 90 (adults)
Validity: 90 days within any 180-day period
Entry: Single entry

Schengen Type C visa for medical treatment in Malta for stays up to 90 days. For longer medical treatments, a National D Visa for medical purposes must be applied for. Malta has a well-regarded healthcare system ranked 18th globally. English is widely spoken by healthcare professionals. Visitors from EU/Schengen/UK/Australia may be eligible for reciprocal healthcare; all others need private insurance.

Eligibility

Nationality
Nationals of Annex I countries under EU Regulation 2018/1806.
Purpose of visit
Must be seeking specific medical treatment available in Malta. Must provide documentation from both home country and Maltese medical institution.
Includes
- Medical treatment
Financial
Must demonstrate ability to cover medical treatment costs, accommodation, and living expenses.
Health
Must provide medical documentation supporting the need for treatment in Malta.

Documents you need

Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 3
Photo
Count: 2; Specifications: 35x45mm
Travel insurance
Minimum coverage: 30000
Accommodation proof
Provide hotel booking, tenancy evidence or host details that cover the planned stay.

Accepted types: Hospital admission confirmation or hotel booking near the medical facility; Must cover full stay: No
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.

Must be confirmed: No; Must show return: Yes
Medical certificate
Provide medical evidence from a recognised doctor or clinic when the route asks for health confirmation.
Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.

Form name: Schengen visa application form
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: ["cash", "card"]; Amount: EUR 90

How to apply

Document gathering
Gather medical reports, hospital appointment confirmation from Malta, passport, photos, insurance, and financial documents.
Online application
Complete the Schengen visa application form indicating medical treatment as purpose.
Appointment booking
Book an appointment at the Maltese embassy, consulate, or VFS Global center.
Fee payment
Pay the visa application fee of EUR 90.
Document submission
Submit all documents in person during your appointment.
Biometrics
Provide biometric data unless previously recorded within 59 months.
Processing wait
Wait for processing, typically 15 calendar days.
Visa collection
Collect your passport with the visa sticker.

Business visa (EU/EEA/Swiss Freedom of Movement - Business)

Applies to all nationalities · Last updated: 25 June 2026

Visa free

Processing time: Immediate
Fee: Free
Validity: Unlimited
Entry: Multiple entry

EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals can conduct business activities in Malta without any visa or work permit restrictions.

Eligibility

Nationality
Citizens of EU member states, EEA countries, and Switzerland.

Documents you need

Passport
Validity months: 0

This information is provided for general guidance only. Visa requirements can change frequently and may vary by nationality. Always verify with the official embassy or consulate before making travel plans. Contact [email protected] for assistance.