Malta
Malta is an EU and Schengen member that uses the euro. Most skilled non-EU workers come on a Single Permit, with faster tracks for higher earners: the Key Employee Initiative, the Specialist Employee Initiative and the EU Blue Card.
For information only. Visa rules, processing times, and eligibility criteria change frequently. All information on this page is sourced from official government websites and verified as of the date shown. Always confirm your specific situation with the relevant embassy or a licensed immigration lawyer before applying. Full disclaimer ↗
Studying in Malta
Everything you need to know about getting a student visa, finding a university, and living in Malta as an international student.
Student Visa Requirements
Visa type: Study residence permit, with a long-stay (D) national visa first if you need a visa for the Schengen area.
Key requirements: A qualification recognised by MQRIC at MQF level 5. You must show funds of at least €745.68 a month of study (Identità sets the rule as a share of the monthly national minimum wage; the euro figure is Settily’s calculation), medical cover of at least €30,000 for the visa stage, and proof of payment of fees. The residence permit fee is €50 and the national student visa fee is €100 at the standard rate.
Processing time: Apply at least 9 weeks before the commencement date of course. The long-stay visa process takes ~6–8 weeks. Identità does not publish a processing time for the study residence permit itself.
Part-time work: Full-time students on courses recognised by MQRIC may work up to 20 hours a week from their first year of study, with an employment licence from Jobsplus.
After graduation: You may apply for a residence permit of a validity period of a minimum of 9 months to seek employment or set up a business.
Identità: study permits ↗Top Universities
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Funds, health cover and staying after graduation
Identità asks student applicants to show funds of at least €745.68 a month of study, and a qualification recognised by MQRIC.
📋 Before you apply
- Qualification level:The qualification must be recognised by MQRIC at MQF level 5.
- Health cover:Minimum medical coverage of €30,000 for the visa stage.
- After your degree:You may apply for a residence permit of a validity period of a minimum of 9 months to seek employment or set up a business.
Common mistake: Applying too late. The application must be submitted at least 9 weeks before the commencement date of course.
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