Malta

Gateway to the Mediterranean: Your Comprehensive Guide to a Malta Tourist Visa

Malta, a stunning archipelago in the heart of the Mediterranean, offers a truly remarkable travel experience. Its ancient temples, magnificent coastal scenery, and vibrant history make it a unique destination. As a full member of the Schengen Area, a Malta Tourist Visa is your key not only to this incredible island nation but also to the entire Schengen Zone.

This definitive guide is designed to be your most reliable tool. We meticulously created it to simplify every phase of your Schengen visa application. It delivers a complete list of all required tourist visa documents, offers a clear, step-by-step walkthrough of the official application form, and provides valuable tips for avoiding common mistakes. We want to ensure you feel entirely prepared and confident throughout your journey. Furthermore, we explain how to find professional visa assistance and properly navigate the visa office procedures. Note that the Embassy of Malta handles applications for UAE residents.

1. An Introduction to the Malta Tourist Visa

A Malta visa from UAE is a type of short-stay Schengen visa (officially known as a Type C visa) that enables non-EU nationals to visit Malta and other Schengen State Countries for leisure or tourism.

• This visa allows a stay of up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
• Application Management: The Embassy of Malta and its official partner, VFS Global, manage the visa process for applicants residing in the UAE.
• The Process: You must submit your application at a VFS Global center. The Embassy of Malta then processes your application. The final result is a physical sticker in your passport that functions as your valid visa.

2. Do You Require a Tourist Visa for Malta? An Eligibility Check

Whether you require a Malta Tourist Visa depends on your nationality and current country of residence. As a resident in the UAE, you need a visa if your passport is from a country not included on the Schengen Area’s visa-free list.

• Visa Not Required: You do not require a visa if your passport is from a country with a visa-waiver agreement (e.g., USA, Canada, UK, or Japan).
• Exemption: If you already hold a valid visa or a residence permit from another Schengen member state, you can travel freely throughout the Schengen Area.
• UAE Citizens: Furthermore, UAE passport holders enjoy visa-free entry to Malta and the entire Schengen Zone for up to 90 days.
• Note: This is not an e-visa or electronic authorization; you receive a physical sticker placed inside your passport.

3. The Step-by-Step Application Process for Your Malta Visa

The Embassy of Malta and VFS Global manage all visa applications in the UAE. Therefore, you must submit all applications at a VFS Global center. The entire procedure follows a clear progression.

Step 1: Determine Your Visa Type. For tourism, apply for a Short-Stay Schengen Visa (Type C). This visa permits a maximum stay of 90 days within a 180-day timeframe.

Step 2: Complete the Application Form. The official visa online application form is available on the VFS Global website. Consequently, you must complete this form with absolute accuracy, as minor errors can result in a refusal.

Malta Visa Online Application Portal

Step 3: Gather All Your Documents. Carefully collect all required documents from our detailed checklist below. An incomplete file is a frequent reason for rejection, so complete this step carefully.

Step 4: Book Your Appointment (Visa Scheduling). After completing your online form, book a mandatory in-person appointment through the VFS Global website. You should do this step well in advance, particularly during peak travel seasons.

Step 5: Attend Your Biometrics Session. This is an essential part of the process. At the designated visa office, you will submit your documents, provide your fingerprints and a digital photograph (biometrics), and pay the required fees.

Step 6: Track Your Application. You can easily check the status of your application online using the reference number provided on your VFS Global receipt. This keeps you informed while you await a decision.

Track your application status

Step 7: Pick Up Your Passport. Once you receive a notification, you can collect your passport. If approved, your passport will have the new valid visa sticker inside.

4. Your Comprehensive Guide to Tourist Visa Documents

Submitting a comprehensive and complete visa file is absolutely essential for a successful application. Keep in mind that you must present all documents in English and in A4 format.

Malta Visa Document Checklist & Information:

4.1. Core Documents Required for Your Malta Visa Application

• Signed Application Form: You must submit the application form with your signature. Your signature confirms that all information is correct. Any false information can lead to a long-term ban.
• Original Passport and Copy: Your passport must remain valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned return date. In addition, it must have been issued within the last 10 years and have at least two blank pages. You also need a copy of your passport’s biodata page and copies of any previous passports and all your previous Schengen visas.
• Passport Photo: Provide one recent passport-style photograph with a white background. Specifically, it must not be older than six months.
• Copy of UAE Residence Permit: Include a copy of your valid UAE residence permit. For GCC citizens, a UAE-ID card suffices. Moreover, this permit or ID card must be valid for at least three months beyond your departure date, proving your legal residency and strong ties to the UAE.
• Travel Itinerary: Your itinerary should detail your trip, including places you plan to visit, transportation methods, and hotel reservations. A clear, well-thought-out itinerary shows the visa officer that your intentions are legitimate.
• Proof of Financial Means: This is a crucial part of your application. You must show sufficient funds to cover your stay in Malta. The official requirement is to show funds of at least €40 per day for the entire trip. Therefore, submit bank statements for the last three months; your bank must sign and stamp these statements.
• Travel Medical Insurance: This is a mandatory requirement for all Schengen Visa Countries. Your insurance must be valid for the entire duration of your stay in the Schengen Area and have a minimum coverage of EURO 30,000.
• Flight Reservation: You must provide a round-trip flight reservation. However, do not purchase the final ticket until your visa has been granted.

4.2. Supporting Documents Based on Status

These documents demonstrate your ties to the UAE, assuring the visa officer that you will return after your trip.

• For Employees: Your employer must issue an original letter. This letter should clearly state your employment status, job title, contract length, and salary.
• For Self-Employed Persons: You must provide a copy of your valid trade license.
• For Students: You need to provide a certificate of enrollment or a valid student card.
• Family Member Residence Permit: If you are a family member of an EU/EEA citizen, you should include a copy of their residence permit in the UAE.

4.3. Additional Documents for Minors (Under 18)

If a minor is traveling, you will need additional documents to prove parental consent.

• Consent: Provide proof of consent from the other parent if you are traveling with just one parent.
• Parent’s Passport: Include a copy of the non-traveling parent’s passport.
• Custody: If one parent has full custody, you must provide a copy of the court order.
• Third-Party Travel: Furthermore, if the child is traveling with a third party, you need a notarized affidavit from both parents giving their consent for the trip.
• School Enrollment: Proof of school enrollment for the minor is also required.

5. Navigating the Schengen Visa Application Form: A Field-by-Field Breakdown

The application form is the core of your submission. Therefore, you must fill out every field with accuracy and honesty. Here is a detailed breakdown to help you complete it correctly.

5.1. Section 1: Personal and General Information (Fields 1-10)

These fields require your personal data exactly as it appears on your passport. Accuracy is of the utmost importance.

• Fields 1-3: Surname, Surname at birth, and First name(s). These must match your passport details precisely.
• Fields 4-6: Date of birth, Place of birth, Country of birth. Provide this information exactly as it is listed on your passport.
• Field 7: Current nationality and Nationality at birth. If these are different, fill in both parts.
• Field 10: To clarify, this section is designated for minors. The parents or legal guardians must provide their details here.

5.2. Section 2: Travel Document Details (Fields 11-16)

This part of the form pertains to your passport or other travel documents.

• Field 11: National identity number. For UAE residents, enter your Emirates ID number here.
• Field 12: Type of travel document. Select Ordinary passport unless you hold a different kind of document.
• Fields 13-16: Number of travel document, Date of issue, Valid until, Issued by. You can find all this information on your passport’s biodata page.

5.3. Section 3: Contact and Professional Details (Fields 17-20)

This section confirms your place of residence and employment information.

• Field 17: Applicant’s home address and e-mail address, Telephone number(s). Provide your full, current address in the UAE, along with a working email and phone number. The embassy might use this information to contact you.
• Field 18: Residence in a country other than the country of current nationality. Select Yes and provide your residence permit number and its expiration date. This proves your legal residency in the UAE.
• Field 19: Current occupation. Provide your current job title as listed on your No Objection Certificate (NOC) or trade license.
• Field 20: Employer and employer’s address and telephone number. For employed individuals, this is vital proof of your employment. In contrast, students must provide the name and address of their educational institution.

5.4. Section 4: Trip Details and Logistics (Fields 21-30)

This section outlines the purpose and specific dates of your trip.

• Field 21: Main purpose(s) of the journey. Check the Tourism option.
• Field 23: Member State of first entry. If you are flying directly to Malta, this will be “Malta.” Conversely, if your flight connects through another Schengen country, state that country’s name.
• Field 24: Number of entries requested. Select Single entry if you plan to enter and exit the Schengen Zone just once. Select Multiple entries if you plan multiple visits within the visa’s validity.
• Field 25: Duration of the intended stay. Indicate the total number of days you plan to be in the Schengen Area.

5.5. Section 5: Accommodation and Financial Sponsorship (Fields 31-33)

This section proves you have accommodation and the financial means to support your trip.

• Field 31: Surname and first name of the inviting person(s) in the Member State(s). Leave this blank if you are staying at a hotel. However, if you are staying with a friend or family member, you must include their full name, address, and contact information.
• Field 33 (Cost of Travel): This is a very important field.
  • By the applicant: Check this box if you are paying for your own trip. Then, select the methods of support you’ll be using and provide bank statements as proof.
  • By a sponsor: If a sponsor covers your costs, check this box and specify their name and relationship to you (e.g., inviting person). You must also select the means of support and provide the sponsor’s financial documents.

6. Visa Fees, Processing Time, and Biometrics

Successfully obtaining your Malta Tourist Visa requires careful planning of both cost and time. While the standard Schengen visa fees are fixed, you also pay a service fee to VFS Global.

• Important: All Schengen visa fees are non-refundable, even if your application is refused.
• Pro Tip: You should submit your Schengen visa application at least 4 to 6 weeks before your planned travel date, especially during the busy summer season. While the typical processing time is around 15 days, it can be extended up to 45 days.

7. Understanding the First Point of Entry Rule

This is a critical rule for all travelers visiting multiple Schengen Visa Countries.

• The Rule: The “First Point of Entry Rule” states that you should apply for a visa at the embassy or consulate of the country where you plan to spend the most time.
• Tie-Breaker: If your stay duration is equal in multiple countries, apply to the embassy of the country you will enter first.
• Example: If your travel plans include 7 days in Malta, 5 days in Germany, and 3 days in Austria, you must apply for your visa through the Embassy of Malta or its visa application center.

8. Why Visas Are Refused and How You Can Avoid It

Most visa rejections happen due to simple, avoidable mistakes. Consequently, here is a quick guide on what to watch out for.

• Incomplete or Incorrect Application: Every field must be completed accurately. In fact, incomplete applications are often rejected.
• Insufficient Financial Proof: Your bank statements must clearly show that you have enough funds to cover your trip.
• Unclear Itinerary: Vague travel plans raise red flags about your true intentions.
• Invalid Travel Insurance: Your insurance must meet the minimum €30,000 coverage and remain valid for all Schengen Visa Countries during the entire trip.
• Weak Ties to the UAE: This is a very common reason for denial. You must show proof of your job, family, or property to demonstrate you have a reason to return home.
• Previous Visa Violations: Any past overstays or violations are recorded in the Schengen Information System (SIS) and can be a reason for denial. See our step-by-step application process guide for context on submission.

9. What to Do After Your Malta Visa Is Approved: The Final Steps

Receiving a valid visa is a major step, but your journey is not complete until you pass through border control.

• Check Your Visa Sticker: As soon as you get your passport back, double-check the dates and number of entries on your visa sticker. Report any errors immediately.
• Carry All Your Documents: Bring physical copies of everything you submitted for your visa application—flight and hotel bookings, insurance, and proof of funds. Border officers may ask to see them.
• Be Ready for Questions: Prepare to confidently answer questions about your trip’s purpose, itinerary, and duration. Crucially, your answers should match the details on your application.

10. The Serious Repercussions of Overstaying Your Visa

A Schengen visa overstay has severe consequences. The 90/180-day rule is strictly enforced. Even a single extra day can lead to trouble.

• Consequences: You could face significant fines, deportation, or a ban from entering the Schengen Zone for up to 5 years.
• SIS Database: Consequently, all overstays are logged in the Schengen Information System (SIS), which will make obtaining any future visa for any Schengen Visa Countries extremely difficult.

11. Get Professional Visa Assistance

Need assistance with your visa application? Our experts can help you prepare your file to maximize your chances of approval. We are a dedicated visa assistance provider committed to helping you navigate the complexities of international travel.

Phone: +91563632360

Email: info@esahulattourism.com

Website: esahulattourism.com

12. Important Official Application Information

• Malta Tourist Visa Documents Checklist: You can find all required documents for your Schengen visa application through the official Malta Embassy or VFS Global website.
• Official Visa Online Application Form: Access the official Schengen application form through the VFS Global platform for Malta.
• VFS Global Application Tracking: You can track your application status online using the reference number provided on your receipt after your appointment at the visa office.

Disclaimer

This information is for general purposes only. Visa regulations can change, so always check the latest requirements with the official Embassy of Malta or VFS Global before applying. We are not responsible for any visa rejections, delays, or travel issues that may arise from reliance on this information.