National Visa D - Student
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
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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.
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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).
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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
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Health
Must have adequate private health insurance coverage valid in Malta.
Documents you need
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Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 8
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Photo
Count: 2; Specifications: 35x45mm, ICAO compliant, not older than 6 months
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Bank statement
Months required: 6
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Travel insurance
Minimum coverage: 30000
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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
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Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
Form name: Long-stay visa (D Visa) application form
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Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: ["cash", "card"]; Amount: EUR 100
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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
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Document gathering
Obtain admission letter from Maltese institution. Gather passport, photos, financial proof, accommodation proof, health insurance, educational documents, and certified translations if needed.
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Online application
Complete the long-stay D Visa application form. Application can be submitted through VFS Global Extended Service.
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Appointment booking
Book an appointment at the Maltese embassy, consulate, or VFS Global center in your country of residence.
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Fee payment
Pay the D Visa application fee.
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Document submission
Submit all documents in person (originals + copies) at the embassy, consulate, or VFS Global center.
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Biometrics
Provide biometric data (fingerprints and photograph).
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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.
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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.