What documents are needed for a student visa in Malta?
If you're planning to study in Malta for more than 90 days, you'll need a National Long-Stay Student Visa (Type D). Below is a comprehensive list of the documents required for your application:
1. Completed Visa Application Form
- Fully filled and signed by the applicant.
2. Passport-Size Photograph
- One recent color photo (3.5cm x 4.5cm) with a white background.
3. Valid Passport
- Must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay.
- Issued within the last 10 years.
- Contains at least two blank pages.
4. Letter of Acceptance from Educational Institution
- Official letter that includes:
- Course title and level
- Duration and start/end dates
- Weekly contact hours
- Tuition fees and payment status
- Accommodation details, if included
5. Proof of Financial Means
- Evidence that you can support yourself financially while in Malta. Commonly accepted documents:
- Recent bank statements (last three months)
- Bank certificate confirming available funds
- Income Tax Returns (last three years)
- Affidavit of support, if applicable
6. Proof of Accommodation
- Valid documentation for at least the first 14 nights in Malta:
- Hotel or hostel booking confirmation
- Rental agreement
- Notarized declaration from a host with their ID and proof of residence
7. Travel Itinerary
- Flight reservations showing:
- Arrival in Malta no more than two weeks before course start date
- Return ticket (if course duration is under six months)
8. Health and Travel Insurance
- Minimum coverage of €30,000 valid throughout the Schengen Area.
- For MQF level 5 and above: insurance covering at least the first 90 days
- For MQF level 4 or below: insurance covering the entire stay
9. Educational Certificates
- Original and apostilled certificates (from the Ministry of External Affairs of your country), plus copies.
10. Language Proficiency Proof
- Required if the course is in English (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL scores) unless exempted by the institution.
11. Passport Copies
- Photocopies of all pages of the current and previous passports.
12. National Identity Proof
- National ID card (e.g., Aadhaar for Indian students), plus a copy.
13. Visa Fee Payment
- Fees depend on the applicant’s age and stay duration.
- Typically paid via credit or debit card.
14. Additional Documents for Minors
- Birth certificate translated into English
- Copies of parents’ passports
- Parental consent letter (notarized and translated into English)
Application Process Overview
- Schedule an Appointment
Contact the Maltese embassy, consulate, or a visa application center (e.g., VFS Global) in your country. - Prepare Documents
Organize and verify all required documents before your appointment. - Submit Application
Visit the center in person to submit documents and biometrics. - Wait for Processing
Visa processing typically takes around four weeks. - Post-Arrival in Malta
Apply for a temporary residence permit within the first 90 days of arrival.
Important Tips
- Apply early – at least 15 days before your intended travel date.
- Translations – All non-English documents must be officially translated.
- Keep originals and copies – You may be asked to show both.
- Check course level – It affects your insurance and visa conditions.
