Malta Study Visa: Requirements, Universities, Scholarships & Tips

Did you know that Malta has become one of Europe’s fastest-growing destinations for international students, with a 25% increase in student visas granted over the past five years?

Planning to study in Malta requires careful preparation, especially when it comes to obtaining your Malta study visa. This crucial document serves as your gateway to pursuing higher education in this Mediterranean island nation, known for its quality education system and English-language programs.

This comprehensive guide walks you through every aspect of the Malta study visa process, from basic requirements to step-by-step application procedures. You’ll learn about visa types, eligibility criteria, required documents, and essential tips to increase your chances of approval. Whether you’re preparing for your visa interview or calculating your financial requirements, this guide provides all the information you need to make your dream of studying in Malta a reality.

What is a Malta Study Visa?

A Malta study visa is your official permission to enter and study in Malta for a specific duration. For international students, this document comes in two main types:

• Type D Visa: For long-term study programs lasting more than 90 days
• Type C Visa: For short-term courses under 90 days

Your Malta study visa is valid for up to 365 days. The standard processing time is approximately four weeks, though this can vary based on your specific case and application timing.

One notable feature of your Malta study visa is that it allows you to work part-time during your studies. You can work up to 20 hours per week while pursuing your education. This flexibility helps you gain practical experience while managing your living expenses.

After arriving in Malta, you’ll need to apply for an e-Residence permit within the first three months (90 days). This permit serves multiple purposes – it acts as your ID card and allows travel within the Schengen Area when accompanied by a valid passport. The e-Residence permit is valid for one year and can be renewed annually based on your academic progress.

If you’re planning to stay in Malta after completing your studies, you’ll need to transition to a work permit. The e-Residence permit, combined with your student visa, creates a comprehensive framework that supports your educational journey in Malta, from arrival through graduation.

Who Needs a Malta Study Visa?

The requirement for a Malta study visa depends primarily on your nationality and the duration of your planned studies. Here’s what you need to know about who requires a Malta study visa:

EU/EEA and Swiss Citizens:

• You don’t need a study visa to pursue education in Malta
• You only need to register your residence after arriving
• Your national ID card or passport is sufficient for entry

Non-EU/EEA Citizens:

• You must obtain a study visa before traveling to Malta
• This includes students from countries like India, China, Russia, and most African nations
• The visa requirement applies regardless of your course duration

Your visa requirements also vary based on your study program. If you’re attending a short course lasting less than 90 days, you’ll need a Type C visa. For longer academic programs like bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees, you’ll need to apply for a Type D visa.

Some special categories might have different requirements.

For instance, if you’re participating in an exchange program or have a scholarship from specific Maltese institutions, additional documentation might be needed, but the basic visa requirement remains.

Remember that having a valid passport is mandatory regardless of your nationality. Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned stay in Malta. Even if you’re exempt from the visa requirement, you’ll still need to maintain valid identification throughout your study period.

It’s important to note that visa exemption doesn’t mean you can skip other necessary permits. All international students, including those who don’t need a visa, must obtain a residence permit if staying longer than three months.

Top 10 Universities for Indian Students

Malta’s higher education sector welcomes international students with a mix of public and private institutions, currently hosting around 1,700 international students from 100 different countries.

S. No.	Top Universities In Malta For Indians	Eligibility Criteria	Average Tuition Fees (per Year)	Popular Programs
1	University of Malta	Undergraduate: Higher secondary education with IELTS 6.0+ Postgraduate: Bachelor’s degree with IELTS 6.5+	€6,000 – €9,000	Information Technology, Business, Engineering, Medicine, Arts
2	Malta College of Arts, Science, and Technology (MCAST)	Undergraduate: Higher secondary education with IELTS 5.5+ Postgraduate: Bachelor’s degree with IELTS 6.0+	€4,000 – €6,000	Vocational Studies, Engineering, Hospitality, Health Sciences
3	American University of Malta (AUM)	Undergraduate: Higher secondary education with IELTS 6.0+ Postgraduate: Bachelor’s degree with IELTS 6.5+	€7,000 – €10,000	Liberal Arts, Business, IT, Game Development
4	Global College Malta	Undergraduate: Higher secondary education with IELTS 6.0+ Postgraduate: Bachelor’s degree with IELTS 6.5+	€6,000 – €8,000	Business, Finance, Data Analytics
5	St. Martin’s Institute of Higher Education	Undergraduate: Higher secondary education with IELTS 6.0+ Postgraduate: Bachelor’s degree with IELTS 6.5+	€5,000 – €7,000	Computing, Cybersecurity, Graphic Design
6	Queen Mary University of London, Malta Campus	Undergraduate: Higher secondary education with IELTS 6.5+ Postgraduate: Bachelor’s degree with IELTS 7.0+	€9,000 – €12,000	Medicine, Dentistry, Public Health
7	London School of Commerce Malta	Undergraduate: Higher secondary education with IELTS 6.0+ Postgraduate: Bachelor’s degree with IELTS 6.5+	€5,000 – €7,000	Business, Management, Leadership
8	Advenio eAcademy	Undergraduate: Higher secondary education with IELTS 6.0+ Postgraduate: Bachelor’s degree with IELTS 6.5+	€4,000 – €6,000	Digital Marketing, Entrepreneurship
9	STC Higher Education	Undergraduate: Higher secondary education with IELTS 6.0+ Postgraduate: Bachelor’s degree with IELTS 6.5+	€4,000 – €6,000	Cloud Computing, Software Engineering
10	Institute of Tourism Studies (ITS)	Undergraduate: Higher secondary education with IELTS 5.5+ Postgraduate: Bachelor’s degree with IELTS 6.0+	€3,000 – €5,000	Hospitality Management, Culinary Arts

Here are the leading universities you should consider for your studies in Malta:

1. University of Malta: Ranked 851-900 in QS World University Rankings 2024, this prestigious institution offers programs through 14 faculties, 18 institutes, and 13 centers. Your annual tuition cost here would be USD 6,030.
2. Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST): As a leading vocational education institution, MCAST offers practical, career-focused courses. Your total bachelor’s program cost spans USD 19,360 over four years.
3. American University of Malta: Established in 2016, this institution offers American-style education with 10 undergraduate and two graduate programs. Your annual fees would be USD 17,290 for bachelor’s and USD 16,170 for master’s programs.
4. Global College Malta: Specializing in business and management disciplines, this institution provides diverse undergraduate and postgraduate options. International students pay USD 4,460 annually.
5. Queen Mary University of London in Malta: This institution ranks 124th globally in the 2023 Times Higher Education Rankings. It’s particularly known for its medical programs, with annual fees starting from €20,000.
6. St. Martin’s Institute: Known for specialized programs in computing and commerce, this institution provides focused technical education.
7. Institute of Tourism Studies: Specializing in hospitality and tourism, your education here starts from €3,200 annually.

When selecting your university, consider factors like program availability, tuition costs, and alignment with your malta study visa requirements. Each institution offers unique strengths and opportunities for international students.

Eligibility Requirements for a Malta Study Visa

Meeting the eligibility requirements for your Malta study visa is crucial for a successful application. Let’s examine the key criteria you need to fulfill.

Types of Malta Study Visas

Your study duration determines which visa type you’ll need:

• National Visa (Type D): For programs longer than 90 days
• Schengen Visa (Type C): For short courses under 90 days

Eligibility Criteria for International Students

To qualify for your Malta study visa, you must:

• Hold an acceptance letter from a recognized Maltese educational institution
• Possess a valid passport with at least three months validity beyond your planned stay
• Demonstrate English language proficiency through IELTS or equivalent tests
• Provide proof of accommodation arrangements in Malta
• Submit a clean police conduct certificate
• Show evidence of health insurance coverage

Financial Requirements and Proof of Funds

Your financial stability is essential for visa approval. Here’s what you need to demonstrate:

Requirement Type	Amount Required
Living Expenses	€48 per day
Return Travel	Cost of return ticket
Emergency Funds	Minimum €500

You can prove your financial capacity through:

• Bank statements showing sufficient funds
• Scholarship award letters
• Sponsorship documents from parents or guardians
• Proof of regular income if applicable

Remember to maintain original copies of all financial documents, as digital versions alone aren’t accepted. Your bank statements should cover at least the previous six months of transactions.

Pre-Application Preparation

Before starting your Malta study visa application, proper preparation is essential for a smooth process. Here’s what you need to focus on:

Securing University Admission

Your first step is obtaining an acceptance letter from a Maltese educational institution. Submit your application through the university’s online system and prepare these essential documents:

• Completion certificates from Grade 10 onwards
• Detailed transcripts of previous education
• Updated CV
• Passport copy
• Recent photographs

Document Authentication Process

Your educational documents require authentication through the Apostille process. This verification typically takes 10 working days. For Indian students, the process involves:

• Notary verification
• State Home Department attestation
• Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) authentication

Health Insurance Requirements

Your health insurance coverage is crucial for visa approval. Here are the specific requirements:

For students attending the University of Malta, Malta College of Arts, Science & Technology, or Institute of Tourism Studies:

• You’re exempt from additional insurance requirements

For all other students:

• Minimum coverage of €100,000
• Must cover medical treatment and hospitalization
• Valid for entire first year
• Cannot be revoked during the period
• Must include coverage in Malta and other European countries

For EU/EEA students, you can use the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), but remember it doesn’t cover:

• Medical evacuation
• Physical therapy
• Emergency dental expenses
• Personal possessions
• Legal aid

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

Following your preparation phase, here’s your step-by-step guide to applying for your Malta study visa:

Online Application System Navigation

Start by downloading and completing the visa application form. Your educational institution will book your appointment at the Visa Application Center (VAC). Ensure you fill out all sections accurately and sign the form. The standard processing time is four weeks, though it can extend to 8-9 weeks depending on your case.

Document Submission Guidelines

Prepare these essential documents for submission:

• Valid passport (minimum 8 months validity) with at least two blank pages
• Recent passport-sized photos (3.5cm x 4.5cm, white background)
• Acceptance letter from your Maltese institution
• Proof of accommodation
• Travel medical insurance (minimum coverage €30,000)
• Bank statements (previous 6 months)
• One-way air ticket to Malta
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)

Visa Fee Structure and Payment Methods

Your visa costs will vary based on the type:

Visa Category	Fee (INR)	Service Charge
Standard Student	8,869	100 EUR
Extended Student	13,429	150 EUR

All payments must be made when booking your appointment. The visa and service fees are non-refundable if your application is refused. Remember that fees include GST (SGST 9% + CGST 9%).

After submission, you’ll receive updates via text message or email regarding your application status. Keep your application reference number handy for tracking purposes.

What to Expect After Applying for Your Study Visa

After submitting your Malta study visa application, prepare for the interview phase, which typically takes 15-30 minutes. Here’s what you need to know about this crucial step:

Visa Interview Preparation

Your interview success depends on thorough preparation. Review your application details and ensure you can explain your study plans clearly. Organize all supporting documents, including your visa application, passport, travel schedule, and proof of residence and income.

Common Interview Questions

Be ready to answer these frequently asked questions:

• Why did you choose Malta for your studies?
• What program are you planning to study?
• How will you finance your education?
• What are your future plans after completing the course?
• Can you describe your accommodation arrangements?

Documentation Organization Tips

Keep your documents organized in this order:

• Primary documents (passport, application form)
• Educational certificates
• Financial documents
• Accommodation proof
• Health insurance documentation
• Employment records (if applicable)

Professional Presentation Guidelines

Dress Code: Wear formal attire to demonstrate professionalism. This shows respect and seriousness about your application.

Interview Etiquette:

• Arrive at least 15 minutes early
• Maintain eye contact during the interview
• Speak clearly and confidently
• Listen carefully to questions before responding
• Provide honest and consistent answers

Remember to stay calm throughout the process. If you don’t understand a question, it’s acceptable to ask for clarification. Your confidence and preparation will significantly impact the interview outcome.

Post-Visa Requirements

Once you’ve received your Malta study visa, there are several crucial steps to complete after arriving. Here’s what you need to handle:

Residence Permit Registration

You must apply for an e-Residence permit within three months of arrival in Malta. This permit serves as your ID card and enables Schengen Area travel with your passport. Submit these documents to noneu.identita@gov.mt:

• Passport copy
• Schengen residence card
• Lease agreement with housing authority approval
• Health insurance proof
• University acceptance and endorsement letters
• Recent bank statements
• Bank card with ATM receipt

Student ID and Bank Account Setup

For stays longer than six months, you can open a local bank account. Choose from these options:

APS Bank: Offers International Student Savings Account with:

• Minimum deposit: €25
• Free Visa debit card
• Online banking access

Moneybase: Provides:

• Free account with multicurrency Mastercard
• SEPA bank transfers
• Seven-day customer support

Healthcare Registration Process

Your health screening requirements depend on your course:

• For stays over three months, health screening is mandatory
• Must be completed at a private clinic
• Students from high-risk TB countries need additional chest X-rays
• Healthcare profession students have specific screening requirements

Remember to maintain copies of all registration documents throughout your stay. Your e-Residence permit needs annual renewal, so keep track of expiration dates.

Living in Malta as an International Student

Life as an international student in Malta offers a unique blend of Mediterranean culture and academic opportunities. With over 1,700 international students choosing Malta in 2023, you’ll join a diverse community from across the globe.

Student life in Malta

Your monthly living expenses in Malta typically range between €600-€800, excluding rent. The Mediterranean climate creates perfect conditions for outdoor activities year-round, with temperatures averaging 27°C in summer and 10°C in winter.

Essential Monthly Expenses	Average Cost
Accommodation	€400-€600
Food	€300-€400
Transportation	€50
Utilities	€100

Work opportunities during studies (part-time work regulations)

As an international student, you can work part-time with these conditions:

• Maximum 20 hours per week after your first three months
• Must maintain a minimum 75% class attendance
• Need an employment license (current fee: €230)
• Job should preferably relate to your field of study

Networking and community engagement for students

The Erasmus Student Network (ESN) Malta organizes various activities to help you integrate into the local community. These include:

• Beach clean-ups and environmental initiatives
• Sports festivals and cultural events
• Volunteering opportunities with local organizations

Malta’s thriving tourism sector employs over 40,000 people, offering numerous networking opportunities. The country’s work culture uniquely blends Mediterranean relaxation with professional efficiency, with 73% of workers reporting satisfaction with their work-life balance.

Your professional connections can lead to valuable opportunities, including internships and job placements. Many universities offer career events and job fairs where you can meet potential employers and industry professionals.

Tips for a Successful Malta Study Visa Application

Success in your Malta study visa application depends on attention to detail and proper preparation. Here are essential tips to strengthen your application:

Start Early and Stay Organized Create a timeline working backward from your intended start date. Allow at least 12 weeks for the entire process, including:

• 4-8 weeks for document collection and authentication
• 4 weeks for visa processing
• Extra time for unexpected delays

Document Organization Strategy

Document Type	Organization Tips
Academic Records	Chronological order
Financial Documents	Most recent first
Personal Documents	Separate folder
Supporting Materials	Category-wise

Financial Documentation Tips

• Maintain consistent bank balance for six months
• Avoid large, unexplained deposits
• Keep detailed records of fund sources
• Include sponsor documents if applicable

Application Form Excellence Pay special attention to these often-overlooked areas:

• Use consistent information across all documents
• Double-check travel dates
• Provide complete contact details
• Include all previous visa history

Professional Presentation Your application should reflect your seriousness about studying in Malta:

• Submit clean, unfolded documents
• Use high-quality copies
• Include English translations where needed
• Label all attachments clearly

Remember to keep digital copies of everything you submit and maintain regular communication with your educational institution throughout the process. This organized approach significantly increases your chances of visa approval.

How to avoid common mistakes?

To ensure your Malta study visa application succeeds, be aware of these frequently occurring mistakes that could delay or derail your application.

Documentation Accuracy Your application’s success heavily depends on accurate documentation. Common errors include:

• Inconsistent information between passport and application form
• Missing document attestations
• Incomplete bank statements

Critical Areas to Double-Check

Common Mistake	How to Avoid
Incorrect passport details	Cross-check all numbers and dates
Missing document attestation	Follow country-specific checklist
Incomplete financial proof	Submit properly attested statements
Late application	Apply 90 days before travel

Financial Documentation Essentials Your financial documents need special attention. Ensure you:

• Submit bank statements with proper attestation
• Include all sponsor-related declarations and affidavits
• Maintain consistent account activity
• Avoid last-minute large deposits

Timing and Planning Start your application process early, as most countries accept applications up to 90 days before travel. This buffer allows you to:

• Handle unexpected document requirements
• Address any verification queries
• Complete health examinations early

Remember that embassies evaluate applications based on authentic documentation. Avoid these serious mistakes:

• Submitting falsified documents
• Providing incorrect sponsor information
• Skipping document authentication steps
• Overlooking country-specific requirements

Your attention to detail in these areas significantly increases your chances of visa approval. Keep your documentation genuine and complete, as no embassy will deny your visa unless requirements aren’t met or documentation appears suspicious.

Scholarships for Indian Students to Study in Malta

Financial support can significantly reduce your study expenses in Malta. Several scholarship opportunities are available to help fund your education.

Government Scholarships The Malta Government Scholarship program offers substantial support:

• Award amount: INR 2L – INR 5L per year
• Covers tuition fees and potential living expenses
• Based on academic excellence and specific country quotas

University-Specific Awards The University of Malta provides generous support through:

• Tuition fee waivers ranging from 40% to 100%
• Available for Master’s by research and Ph.D. programs
• Exclusive for non-EU/EEA students

Scholarship Type	Amount (per year)	Key Benefits
Malta Government	Malta Government Scholarships Per Year	INR 2L – INR 5L
University of Malta	INR 2L – 5L	Tuition Coverage
Erasmus+ Program	INR 3L	Travel + Living Support

Application Requirements For most scholarships, you’ll need:

• Excellent academic records
• Letters of recommendation
• Personal statement
• Proof of admission to a Maltese institution

Important Notes:

• You can apply for multiple scholarships simultaneously
• Partial scholarship holders may still apply for additional funding
• Living cost support isn’t included in tuition waivers
• Early application is crucial as deadlines vary by program

The University of Malta specifically seeks top-quality international students, offering substantial financial support to deserving candidates. Remember that scholarship applications must be submitted before starting your program, as ongoing students typically aren’t eligible for these opportunities.

Conclusion

Malta stands as an excellent choice for your international education journey, offering quality education alongside rich cultural experiences. Through this comprehensive guide, you’ve learned about the two main visa types – Type D for long-term studies and Type C for short courses – and their specific requirements.

Your successful visa application depends on careful preparation, proper documentation, and meeting financial requirements. Remember these key points:

• Start your application process at least 12 weeks before your planned travel
• Maintain organized documentation and accurate financial records
• Complete post-arrival requirements like e-Residence permit registration within specified timeframes
• Take advantage of part-time work opportunities and scholarship programs

Malta’s welcoming environment for international students, combined with reasonable living costs and strong academic programs, creates an ideal setting for your educational growth. The country’s strategic location, English-language programs, and work opportunities during studies make it an attractive destination for ambitious students.

Armed with this knowledge about visa requirements, university options, and living conditions, you’re now ready to begin your educational journey in Malta. Focus on following the application steps carefully, preparing thoroughly for your visa interview, and maintaining complete documentation to ensure a smooth transition into student life in this Mediterranean nation.

FAQs

Q1. What are the main requirements for a Malta study visa?

The key requirements include a valid passport, acceptance letter from a Maltese institution, proof of sufficient funds, health insurance coverage, and English language proficiency. You’ll also need to submit a completed visa application form and passport-sized photos.

Q2. How long does it take to process a Malta study visa?

The standard processing time for a Malta study visa is approximately four weeks. However, it can extend up to 8-9 weeks depending on individual circumstances. It’s advisable to start the application process at least 12 weeks before your planned travel date.

Q3. What is the minimum bank balance required for a Malta student visa?

You need to demonstrate sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees and living expenses. A minimum bank balance of €854 per month of stay in Malta is typically required. This should be reflected in your bank statements for the past three months.

Q4. Can international students work part-time while studying in Malta?

Yes, international students can work part-time in Malta under certain conditions. You’re allowed to work up to 20 hours per week after your first three months of study. However, you must maintain at least 75% class attendance and obtain an employment license.

Q5. Are there scholarships available for international students in Malta?

Yes, there are several scholarship opportunities for international students in Malta. These include the Malta Government Scholarship program, which offers between INR 2L to 5L per year, and university-specific awards like those from the University of Malta, which provide tuition fee waivers ranging from 40% to 100% for eligible students.