Skip to content
1 way to enter

Malta visas

Malta visa on arrival

Malta can issue a Schengen visa at the border in exceptional cases. This is not a routine option for a holiday.

Ways to get a Malta visa on arrival

  1. Exceptional border-issued Schengen visa

    Visa on arrival

    Travellers who could not apply in advance because of unforeseeable and urgent circumstances, and who meet the regular visa criteria, may qualify.

    Stay
    Up to 15 days.
    Valid for
    Up to 15 days.
    Entries
    Single entry.
    1. Explain the exceptional circumstances at the border and provide evidence.
    2. Demonstrate that you meet the regular Schengen visa criteria.

Who needs it

This route is for visa-required travellers who can prove that unforeseeable and urgent circumstances prevented an advance application and who meet the usual visa criteria.

How to apply

  1. Present evidence at the border showing why unforeseeable and urgent circumstances prevented an advance application.
  2. Show that you meet the usual Schengen visa criteria.

What to bring

  • Evidence of the circumstances that prevented an advance application.
  • Documents showing that the usual Schengen visa criteria are met.

Good to know

  • If consultation with other Schengen authorities is required, a border visa is limited to exceptional humanitarian cases, national interest or international obligations.
  • An airline may refuse boarding if you do not already have the required travel documents.
  • A separate family-member border route is described under family entry.

Questions

Do I need a visa on arrival for Malta?

This route is for visa-required travellers who can prove that unforeseeable and urgent circumstances prevented an advance application and who meet the usual visa criteria.

How long can I stay on a Malta visa on arrival?

Up to 15 days for the exceptional border-issued Schengen visa.

How long is a Malta visa on arrival valid?

Up to 15 days. Entries: Single entry..

What documents do I need for a Malta visa on arrival?

Evidence of the circumstances that prevented an advance application.; Documents showing that the usual Schengen visa criteria are met..

How do I apply for a Malta visa on arrival?

1. 1. Present evidence at the border showing why unforeseeable and urgent circumstances prevented an advance application. 2. 2. Show that you meet the usual Schengen visa criteria.

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

If consultation with other Schengen authorities is required, a border visa is limited to exceptional humanitarian cases, national interest or international obligations.

Does my passport change whether I need a visa on arrival 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 visa on arrival 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 visa on arrival 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 visa on arrival 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.

Reviewed by