Malta Visa - Definitive Guide

Being a Schengen country, nationals other than from Schengen nations and from the visa-exempt nations will require a permit to enter Malta. Also known as the Malta Schengen visa, the permit allows you to enter the country for purposes such as tourism, business, family visit, etc. Normally, these are issued as single-entry type, double-entry type, and multiple-entries. 

Since there is no online visa application for Malta from India, the application is done offline. Before starting the application for the Malta visa from India, you must ensure that you are eligible for the particular category you are applying. After this, you may proceed to make the application as follows - 

1. Collect all the documents you would need for the Malta visa application process. 
2. Visit the website of the VAC and download the application form. The High Commission of Malta only accepts direct applications for HUmanitarian/Exceptional visas. All other applications are made through the VAC.  
3. Fill in the application form with all the relevant details.
4. Proceed to schedule an appointment to submit the application at one of the 16 VACs located across India. You can do this by visiting their website and booking online, or by calling them up. You may visit the VAC without an appointment during working hours, however, due to the high volume of applications, it is strongly suggested to book first.
5. Visit the respective VAC with your documents, duly signed and filled application form, and the fees, in person. 

Note that if you have already submitted your application to the VIS (Visa Information System) in the past 5 years, you do not have to submit them again. Also, note that you must provide original documents and correct information. Providing false information or fake documents are grounds for automatic visa rejection. 

Based on the purpose of the visit and the stay duration, the Maltese permit can be classified into the following categories - 

• Short term - Also known as the C category Schengen, this type is issued for short term visits that last up to 90 days in a 180-day period. Based on the purpose behind the visit, these can further be classified as the following - 

• 1. Tourist - This type is issued for people whose main purpose for the visit is to take part in tourist activities.
  2. Business - This allows you to travel to Malta to take part in business-related activities such as meetings, conferences, etc.
  3. Visit - This type of visa is issued for people who have been invited to visit their family members or friends living in the country.
  4. Religious- These are for people who are visiting to take part in religious activities, meetings, or other functions.
• Long term - This is more commonly known as the Malta national visa or D type and is issued for periods longer than 90 days. Based on the purpose, these can also be classified as the following- 
  1. Work - This is granted for people who are entering the country to engage in work-related activities.
  2. Study - This is issued for students entering Malta to take part in studies that last longer than 90 days.
  3. Family Reunion - This is for people who are planning to stay with their family living in the country.

The following are the list of documents you would require for applying for a Malta visa. However, note that these are only general documents. Based on the exact category of the permit, there are additional documents necessary.

• A passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of travel. 
• Covering letter stating the details of the visit
• Travel itinerary of your trip
• Medical travel insurance coverage up to at least 30000 Euros
• Proof of occupation/employment/student status
• Financial documents to show proof of funds to support the stay.

• Dimensions: 35mm X 45mm
• Colour: Coloured
• Head must occupy the central position
• Must be captured within the last 3 months
• Background: Solid, plain white or grey
• 80% face coverage
• Neutral expression
• Glasses: Non-thick framed and prescription glasses
• Headgears - only for religious reasons
• Facial hair - permitted

The time taken to process the Malta visa application depends on the type of the permit, the number of entries, the stay duration, the volume of applications at the embassy, as well as your previous travel history. In normal conditions, it takes around 10-15 working days for processing. However, in certain cases, this may even take up to 30 days, or in extreme cases, this can take up to 60 days as well. As a result, it is suggested that you make the application well in advance. 

The Malta Schengen visa fees for Indian citizens depend on the category of the permit, the validity and stay duration, biometric charges, as well as other service charges. It can also vary depending on the foreign exchange rates of the Euro and the Rupee. As a result, it is advised that you check the exact fees before starting the application. 

While you are waiting for a response from the embassy, you can do your Malta visa status check online by visiting https://www.vfsvisaonline.com/Global-Passporttracking/Track/ and entering your reference number and date of birth. You can also check your Malta visa application status by contacting your travel agency and have them track it for you.

The application for the Malta visa is to be made at one of the VACs located across India. You cannot apply directly to the Embassy of Malta. The embassy only accepts applications directly for Humanitarian/exceptional visas. However, even if you have submitted at the VAC, the processing is done solely by the embassy.