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3 ways to enter

Malta visas

Malta family visa

Some family members of EU single market citizens can enter Malta without a visa using a qualifying residence card. Longer residence follows separate rules.

Ways to get a Malta family visa

  1. Visa-free entry with a family residence card

    No visa needed

    Family members of EU single market citizens who hold a qualifying residence card and meet the accompanying or joining rules qualify, regardless of nationality.

    Stay
    Up to three months.

  2. Family visa at the border

    Visa on arrival

    In principle, family members of EU single market citizens who do not meet the residence-card conditions may obtain a visa at the border by proving the family relationship.

    1. Present yourself at the border checkpoint.
    2. Provide evidence of your family relationship with the EU single market citizen.

  3. Longer residence

    Other permit

    Non-EU single market citizens generally need a long-stay visa or residence permit for stays over 90 days. Some long-term residents of other EU or Schengen countries may acquire a right to settle in Malta.

    Stay
    Generally a long-stay visa for less than a year or a residence permit for longer periods.

Who needs it

Family members who do not meet the residence-card exemption may need a visa. Detailed Malta family residence requirements are not specified.

Who doesn't

Family members of any nationality with a qualifying residence card can enter without a visa when accompanying or joining their EU single market family member. A qualifying card issued by a Schengen country also allows independent travel.

What to bring

  • A valid travel document.
  • A residence card showing that you are a family member of an EU single market citizen.

Good to know

  • If the qualifying family residence card was issued outside the Schengen Area, you must accompany or join your EU single market family member.
  • A qualifying family residence card issued by a Schengen country allows travel without accompanying or joining that family member.
  • Longer residence generally requires a long-stay visa or residence permit for non-EU single market citizens.
  • Detailed Malta spouse and dependant application rules are not specified.

Questions

Do I need a family visa for Malta?

Family members who do not meet the residence-card exemption may need a visa. Detailed Malta family residence requirements are not specified. Family members of any nationality with a qualifying residence card can enter without a visa when accompanying or joining their EU single market family member. A qualifying card issued by a Schengen country also allows independent travel.

What are the ways to get a family visa for Malta?

There are 3 options: Visa-free entry with a family residence card (no visa at all); Family visa at the border (a visa at the border); Longer residence (a special permit).

Who can go to Malta without a family visa?

Family members of EU single market citizens who hold a qualifying residence card and meet the accompanying or joining rules qualify, regardless of nationality.

How long can I stay on a Malta family visa?

Up to three months under the family residence-card exemption.

What documents do I need for a Malta family visa?

A valid travel document.; A residence card showing that you are a family member of an EU single market citizen..

What rules do I have to follow on a Malta family visa?

If the qualifying family residence card was issued outside the Schengen Area, you must accompany or join your EU single market family member. A qualifying family residence card issued by a Schengen country allows travel without accompanying or joining that family member.

Does my passport change whether I need a family visa for Malta?

Yes. Rules depend on the country that issued your passport. Open the Malta visa page and choose your passport for a plain answer.

Can a family visa for Malta be refused?

Yes. Officials can refuse a visa or entry, even after you apply. Give true answers, bring the documents asked for, and keep proof of your onward trip and money.

Where do I check the latest Malta family visa rules?

On Malta's official immigration or foreign ministry website, or at its embassy. Rules change, so check close to your trip.

Can I change my family visa once I am in Malta?

Often you cannot switch visa type inside the country. Ask the immigration office before you travel if you might need to.

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