Malta Study Visa Requirements and Processing Time: Find Out Now (2025)

Introduction

Imagine pursuing a world-class education on a beautiful Mediterranean island while enjoying affordable tuition and numerous work opportunities. Studying in Malta is an excellent choice for Indian students who want to experience European education without the high costs associated with other study-abroad destinations.

Malta is gaining popularity among international students because of its English-speaking environment, recognized universities, and strong job market. Whether you’re looking for a bachelor’s, master’s, or diploma program, Malta offers diverse options that cater to students from India. However, before you pack your bags, you must secure a Malta student visa to begin your academic journey.

Do You Need a Study Visa for Malta?

Who Requires a Malta Study Visa?

If you are a non-EU/EEA student, including those from India, you must apply for a student visa to enter and stay in Malta for your studies. A Malta study visa is essential for all students enrolling in programs longer than 90 days at a recognized institution.

Types of Student Visas for Malta

Malta offers two types of student visas based on the duration of your stay:

Short-Stay Visa (C Visa):

This visa is for students enrolling in courses or training programs lasting less than 90 days.
Commonly used for short-term study programs, language courses, or summer schools.
Requires proof of admission, accommodation details, and financial stability.

Long-Stay Visa (D Visa):

This is the primary visa for students enrolled in full-time bachelor’s, master’s, or diploma courses lasting more than 90 days.
Holders of a D Visa must apply for a temporary residence card upon arrival in Malta to continue their stay legally.
Allows students to work part-time after three months of residence in Malta.

When to Apply for a Malta Study Visa?

It is recommended that Indian students apply for their Malta student visa at least 2-3 months before the course start date. The application process involves collecting documents, booking an appointment, and attending an interview, so early preparation is crucial to avoid last-minute delays.

Malta Study Visa Requirements for Indian Students

Before applying for a Malta study visa, Indian students must meet certain eligibility criteria and prepare the necessary documents. Ensuring that all requirements are met can significantly improve the chances of visa approval.

Basic Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for a Malta student visa, Indian students must:

Have an admission letter from a recognized Maltese university or college.
Provide financial proof showing they can cover tuition fees and living expenses.
Have valid health insurance covering their stay in Malta.
Show proof of accommodation arrangements in Malta.
Intend to return to India after completing their studies (unless applying for post-study work options).

List of Required Documents

To apply for a Malta study visa, students must submit the following:

Valid Passport – Must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay.
Admission Letter – From a recognized Maltese university, college, or educational institution.
Proof of Tuition Fee Payment – Payment receipt or official confirmation from the university.
Financial Proof – Bank statements, fixed deposits, or sponsor letters proving sufficient funds.
Health Insurance Coverage – A policy that covers medical expenses during the stay in Malta.
Proof of Accommodation – Rental agreement, hostel booking, or university-provided housing confirmation.
Travel Itinerary – Flight booking details (one-way or return ticket).
Visa Application Form & Fees – Completed application form with the necessary visa fees.

Ensuring that all documents are valid, properly formatted, and up-to-date is crucial to avoiding visa rejection or delays.

Financial Proof: How Much Bank Balance is Required?

To secure a Malta study visa, Indian students must provide proof of sufficient financial resources. This ensures that the applicant can cover their tuition fees, living expenses, and additional costs during their stay.

The minimum financial proof required for a Malta study visa is €10,000 – €12,000 per year (approximately ₹9,45,000 – ₹12,00,000). This amount covers living expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, and other daily necessities.

Accepted Financial Documents

Indian students can provide proof of financial stability through:

Bank Statements (Savings accounts with required balance).
Fixed Deposits (Held for a minimum period).
Sponsorship Letter (From parents, guardians, or scholarship providers).
Scholarship Proof (If receiving financial aid from the university or government).

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for a Malta Study Visa

Applying for a Malta study visa requires careful planning and following a structured process. Below is a step-by-step guide for Indian students to ensure a smooth application process.

Step 1: Get Admission Offer

Before applying for a visa, students must secure admission at a recognized university or college in Malta. The university will issue an official admission letter, which is a mandatory requirement for the visa application.

Step 2: Pay Tuition Fees

Some Maltese institutions require students to pay a part or full tuition fee before applying for a visa. Keep the payment receipt as proof for the visa application.

Step 3: Gather Required Documents

Ensure that all documents—including a valid passport, financial proof, health insurance, and accommodation details—are in order. Missing documents can delay or lead to visa rejection.

Step 4: Book a Visa Appointment

Indian students must apply for their Malta student visa through VFS Global. Book an appointment at the nearest VFS Global Centre in India.

Step 5: Submit Application & Biometrics

On the appointment day, students must:

Submit the visa application form and all required documents.
Provide biometrics (fingerprints and photographs).
Pay the visa fee (if not already paid online).

Step 6: Wait for Processing & Decision

After submission, the visa application enters the processing stage, where authorities review documents, verify financial proof, and conduct background checks.

Step 7: Receive the Visa & Travel to Malta!

Once approved, students will receive their Malta student visa sticker on their passport. They can then book their flight and start their journey to study in Malta!

Malta Study Visa Processing Time for Indian Students

The processing time for a Malta study visa can vary depending on multiple factors. It is essential to apply early to ensure timely approval before the academic session begins.

Average Processing Time

On average, a Malta student visa takes 7-9 weeks for processing. However, during peak seasons (June–September), it may take longer.

Factors Affecting Processing Time

Several elements can impact the visa processing timeline:

Incomplete documentation – Missing or incorrect documents can lead to delays.
University verification delays – Some institutions take longer to confirm admission details.
High application volume – Processing times increase when more students apply, especially before major intakes.

How to Track Your Application?

Students can track their visa application via:

VFS Global Tracking System – Use the reference number received during submission.
Malta Consular Services – Contact the Malta High Commission for status updates.

Tip: Keep a copy of all submitted documents for reference and follow up regularly if processing takes longer than expected.

Can You Work on a Malta Student Visa?

Many Indian students look for part-time job opportunities in Malta to manage their living expenses and gain international work experience. However, there are certain regulations regarding student employment that every applicant should be aware of.

Work Rights for Indian Students in Malta

Allowed to Work: International students can work up to 20 hours per week, but only after completing 90 days of their stay in Malta.
Work Permit Requirement: Students must apply for an employment license through Jobsplus Malta before starting any job.
Full-Time Work During Holidays: Students may work full-time during semester breaks or vacations.

Popular Part-Time Jobs for Students in Malta

Many industries in Malta hire students for part-time work. Some of the most popular part-time jobs include:

Hospitality & Tourism – Hotel receptionists, waiters, bartenders, kitchen assistants.
Retail Jobs – Cashiers, store assistants, supermarket staff.
Delivery Services – Food delivery jobs with Wolt, Bolt Food, Uber Eats.
Call Centers & Customer Support – Good English skills are required.
Freelancing & Online Work – Digital marketing, tutoring, content writing.

Common Reasons for Malta Study Visa Rejections & How to Avoid Them

Applying for a Malta study visa does not guarantee approval. Many applications are rejected due to common mistakes that can be easily avoided with proper planning.

1. Incomplete or Incorrect Documents

Missing important documents like financial proof, admission letters, or travel insurance can lead to rejection. Double-check all requirements before submission and ensure all documents are properly attested.

2. Insufficient Financial Proof

The Malta visa authorities require students to show a minimum bank balance of €7,500 – €10,000 (~₹6,75,000 – ₹9,00,000). Maintain the required balance for at least 3-6 months before applying, and provide supporting financial documents like bank statements, fixed deposits, or sponsor letters.

3. Lack of a Genuine Study Purpose

Some students apply for visas without a clear academic or career goal. Solution: Submit a strong Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining why you chose Malta, your career plans, and how your course aligns with your future goals.

4. Suspicious Travel History

If a student has a history of visa refusals or overstaying in other countries, it may raise red flags. Maintain a clear and legal travel record and explain past visa issues (if any) with supporting documents.

Overcoming a Visa Rejection: Steps to Reapply

If a Malta study visa is rejected, students can:

Request a detailed rejection letter from the consulate.
Address the issues mentioned in the rejection.
Reapply with stronger documentation and financial proof.

Tip: Consulting an expert like The Raptor Academics can help students strengthen their visa application and avoid rejections.

Conclusion

Securing a Malta study visa is a crucial step for Indian students who aspire to study in this beautiful European country. By understanding the visa process, meeting financial requirements, and submitting the correct documentation, students can significantly increase their chances of approval. Malta offers an excellent education system, affordable tuition, and part-time job opportunities, making it a great choice for international students.

To avoid last-minute delays and potential visa rejections, students should start the application process early and ensure they meet all eligibility criteria. If you’re unsure about any step in the process, expert guidance can make all the difference.

Need help with your Malta study visa? Contact The Raptor Academics today for personalized assistance with applications, documentation, and visa success!

FAQs

1. How much bank balance is required for a Malta student visa?

Students need at least €7,500 – €10,000 (~₹6,75,000 – ₹9,00,000) per year to cover tuition fees and living expenses.

2. How long does it take to process a Malta study visa?

The visa processing time is typically 4-6 weeks, but it may vary based on individual applications and the time of year.

3. Can Indian students work while studying in Malta?

Yes, international students can work up to 20 hours per week after completing 90 days in Malta.

4. What are the chances of getting a Malta study visa?

If you meet all requirements and provide complete and accurate documentation, the chances of visa approval are high.

5. Can I bring my spouse or family on a Malta student visa?

Currently, Malta does not offer a dependent visa for student visa holders. However, family members may apply for separate visas if they meet the requirements.