Yes, Indian passport holders need a valid visa, specifically a Schengen visa, to travel to Malta for short stays like tourism, business, family visits, or other approved activities for up to 90 days within 180 days.

Malta does not offer visa-on-arrival or visa-free entry for Indian citizens.

Yes, a Malta visa allows you to travel freely to other Schengen countries without needing additional visas. With a Malta visa, you can travel to the following 28 European countries: 

Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. 

Note: When applying, you should clearly state your intention to visit multiple Schengen Countries and provide a detailed itinerary covering your entire trip.

Yes, you can enter and travel to Malta with a Schengen visa issued by Germany. However, ideally, you must keep these two rules in mind:

• Entry point: You are advised to enter through the country that issued your visa. In this case, Germany should be your primary entry point into the Schengen Area. After that, you can travel to Malta or other Schengen countries. 

• Main destination for stay: You should spend the majority of your time in Germany, as you are required to apply for a visa from the country where you will spend the most time.

Not meeting the above cases? Worry not! Read our guide on- Getting A Schengen Visa From One Country And Travelling To Another? (Essential Tips & Legal Insights)- to learn more about navigating these situations smoothly while staying compliant with Schengen regulations.

Malta tourist visa validity for Indians is up to 90 days within a 180-day period. These 90 days can be continuous or spread over multiple trips, but the total stay cannot exceed 90 days within the rolling 180 days.

Malta Schengen visa applications can be submitted up to 6 months in advance of your planned travel date and at least 15 days before your trip. Since visa processing times can vary, it is best to apply 4-6 weeks in advance to avoid any last-minute delays.

A single-entry Malta visa allows you to enter the country and the Schengen Area only once. After leaving, you cannot re-enter, even if the visa is still valid.

A multiple-entry visa, on the other hand, allows you to enter and exit Malta and the Schengen Area multiple times within the visa's validity period (as long as you do not exceed the 90-day stay limit within 180 days).

Yes, you can apply for a multiple-entry Schengen visa for Malta. Multiple-entry visas are typically issued for 1, 3, or 5 years, depending on your travel history and the discretion of the consular officer.

Note: Despite having a multiple-entry visa, you can only stay for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period.

The Malta visa fees for Indians are, for Adults: €90, for Children (6-12 years): €45 and for Children under 6 years: Free of cost.
Please note: Fees may vary slightly due to exchange rate fluctuations or additional service charges from visa centres.

Here are the Malta tourist visa requirements for Indians:

• Passport: 

• Visa application form

• Photograph

• Proof of travel purpose

• Proof of financial means

• Proof of travel

• Proof of accommodation

• Travel insurance

• Aadhaar Card

Passport:

A passport valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen Area. It must have been issued within the last 10 years and contain at least three blank pages.

With Atlys, you cannot only upload your passport pictures but also take a picture of your passport using your smartphone or desktop camera.

Visa application form:

Completed, error-free and signed- Malta visa application form. 

Photograph:

One recent passport-sized photograph on a white background that is no older than 6 months; size- 3.5 cm by 4.5 cm.

With Atlys, you cannot only upload your passport-size photo but also click the picture of yours using your smartphone or desktop camera. Atlys automatically adjusts the photo to meet the country's requirements without hassle.

Proof of travel purpose:

Cover letter outlining your personal information, purpose of visit, financial means and intent to return. 

Atlys will help you with a customizable cover letter during the application process, free of cost.

Proof of financial means:

To demonstrate your capability to fund your stay in the Schengen Area, provide bank account statements for the last three months, last three months’ pay slips, employment contract, employer’s statement on approval of holidays and ITR acknowledgement for the last two years. 

Proof of travel:

Roundtrip tickets and proof of intra-Schengen flight reservation, train itinerary or car rental if you are travelling to several Schengen States. 

Atlys provides flight reservations for free, allowing you to demonstrate your travel plans without any financial commitment.

Proof of accommodation:

Confirmed proof of accommodation for your entire stay in Malta. If invited, submit an invitation letter signed by the inviting person and duly notarised in Malta.

Atlys provides hotel reservations for free, allowing you to demonstrate your travel plans without any financial commitment.

Travel insurance:

You must have travel insurance that is valid for all Schengen Countries. It should cover at least €30,000 or equivalent for all risks for the entire duration of the trip. 

Aadhaar Card. 

Note: Depending on the specific circumstances mentioned in the visa application, additional documents will be required. Additionally, the application form and all documents (original + copy) are to be submitted in person.

Minors applying for a Malta visa must provide the following additional documents:

• If the minor is travelling with only one parent, written consent certified by a public notary of the other parent or guardian, except in cases of a parent having sole custody or guardianship of the minor, in which case a court order or other proof of sole custody or guardianship must be provided; 

• If the minor travels alone (without parents), written consent, certified by a public notary, of both parents or guardians having custody or guardianship of the minor; 

• Copy of identification document(s) (with signature and photograph) of the parent(s)/guardians having custody/guardianship of the applicant. 

Yes, you can apply for a Malta tourist visa without a confirmed flight booking. However, you will need to provide a flight itinerary or reservation as proof of your intended travel dates. 

Atlys provides verifiable flight reservations for free, allowing you to demonstrate your travel plans without any financial commitment.

Yes, you can apply for a Malta visa without a confirmed hotel booking, but you still need to show proof of where you plan to stay. This can include temporary hotel bookings or an invitation letter from friends or family who will be hosting you.

The consulate requires this to ensure that you have arrangements in place for your stay. Even if your plans are not finalized, providing a reservation or written confirmation of your accommodation will satisfy this requirement during the visa application process.

Atlys provides verifiable hotel reservations for free, allowing you to demonstrate your travel plans without any financial commitment.

Yes, travel insurance is mandatory when applying for a Malta tourist visa. It should be valid for all Schengen countries, covering the applicant for at least 30,000 Euros or equivalent. The policy must clearly specify the period of validity and must cover the entire duration of the trip, including the date of arrival and departure.

It is mandatory that your photograph meets the Malta visa photo requirements mentioned below:

• Size: 3.5 cm x 4.5 cm. 

• Head size: The head should occupy 70-80% of the photo.

• Colour: The photo must be in colour and have a plain white or light grey background.

• Face position: The applicant's face must be centred and looking directly at the camera with a neutral expression.

• Eyes: Eyes should be open and clearly visible, without any reflections or obstructions.

• Glasses: If you wear glasses, make sure the lenses are free of glare or reflections, and your eyes are clearly visible. Avoid wearing tinted glasses.

• Headwear: Headwear is not allowed unless it is for religious reasons. In such cases, the face must be fully visible from the bottom of the chin to the top of the forehead, and the edges of the face must be visible.

Tip: Ensure your photos meet these requirements exactly, as failure to do so can lead to delays or rejection of your application.

If your bank balance fluctuates significantly, it’s important to provide additional context to avoid any negative impact on your visa application:

• Address it in the cover letter: If there are large deposits or withdrawals, include a brief explanation in your cover letter. For instance, if a large deposit is from a property sale, mention this.

• Submit additional proof: Provide other financial documents, such as fixed deposits, mutual funds, or property documents, to demonstrate overall financial stability.

Yes, you can show multiple sources of income to strengthen your Malta visa application. This can include proof of income from investments, rentals, or other sources. If someone else is sponsoring your trip, include their financial documents along with a sponsorship letter.

Tip: In your cover letter, clearly list and explain all income sources to provide a comprehensive view of your financial situation.

Yes, income tax returns (ITR) for the past two years are mandatory when applying for a Malta visa. The ITR documents help demonstrate your financial stability and regular income, which are crucial for proving that you can support yourself during your stay in Malta.

If you haven't filed income tax returns (ITRs) for the past two years, this may pose a challenge for your visa application. However, you can take the following steps to address the situation:

• Provide a cover letter: Write a cover letter explaining why you haven’t filed ITRs. Common reasons might include recent employment, income below the taxable threshold, or being a dependent.

• Submit alternative documents: Include other financial documents that prove your income and financial stability, such as bank statements, salary slips, or investment documents.

• Sponsor's ITR: If someone else is sponsoring your trip, submit their ITRs along with a sponsorship letter to strengthen your application.

As a housewife with no independent income, you can provide the following documents to support your Malta visa application:

• Sponsorship letter: Obtain a sponsorship letter from your spouse or a close family member who will sponsor your trip. The letter should clearly state the relationship between you and the sponsor and their commitment to covering your travel expenses.

• Sponsor’s financial documents: Submit your sponsor’s bank statements, income tax returns, and salary slips as proof of financial support.

• Proof of relationship: Depending on your relationship with the sponsor, include a copy of the document (like a marriage certificate) that establishes your relationship with your sponsor.

• Proof of shared assets: If applicable, provide documents showing jointly owned property or bank accounts, which further prove your financial stability.

Tip: Ensure all sponsorship documents are well-organised and clearly demonstrate that your financial needs during the trip will be met.

If you are a businessman, you can enhance your Malta visa application by demonstrating financial stability and the purpose of your travel. Here’s what to do:

• Business financial statements: Submit the latest financial statements of your business, such as profit and loss accounts, balance sheets, and bank statements, covering at least six months.

• Company registration documents: Provide copies of your business registration documents, including your GST certificate, company PAN card, and incorporation certificate.

• Business tax returns: Include your business’s income tax returns for the past two years to demonstrate financial health and stability.

• Invitation letter: If travelling for business purposes, include an invitation letter from your Malta business partner or the organisation you will be visiting. The letter should outline the purpose and duration of your visit.

Tip: In your cover letter, clearly link your business activities to the purpose of your visit to establish the legitimacy of your trip.

Yes, you can get a Malta visa even if you are unemployed. You can provide the following documents to strengthen your visa application:

• Proof of passive income: Submit documents showing regular income from passive sources, such as rental agreements, dividend statements, or interest income from investments.

• Bank statements: Provide bank statements that reflect consistent passive income over the past six months.

• Income tax returns: Include your income tax returns for the past two years, showing the declared passive income.

• Property or investment documents: If applicable, provide proof of ownership of assets that generate passive income, such as property deeds or investment certificates.

If you are retired, you can succeed in your Malta visa application by demonstrating that you have sufficient funds and a clear purpose for your visit. Here’s a list of documents to provide:

• Pension statements: Provide your pension statements for the past six months as proof of a steady income stream.

• Bank statements: Submit bank statements showing a healthy balance and consistent pension credits.

• Proof of savings or investments: Include documents showing savings or investments that contribute to your financial stability, such as fixed deposits, mutual funds, or property ownership.

• Retirement proof: Provide a copy of your retirement certificate or letter from your previous employer confirming your retirement status.

• Travel itinerary and accommodation: Clearly outline your travel plans and accommodation arrangements in Malta.

• Sponsorship letter: If a family member is sponsoring your trip, include a sponsorship letter and proof of their financial capacity to support your stay.

To convince the consular officer that you will return to India after your trip, you need to demonstrate strong ties to your home country. This can done by providing the following documents:

• Employment proof: If employed, provide a letter from your employer confirming your position, salary, and approved leave. Mention that your job will be waiting for you upon return.

• Property ownership: Submit documents proving ownership of property or real estate in India, such as a house or land. This applies to anyone, including retirees, housewives, or unemployed individuals, as property ownership demonstrates strong roots in India.

• Family ties: Show family ties by providing marriage certificates or birth certificates of your dependent children. This is particularly relevant for housewives or those not employed, as showing your family responsibilities reinforces your commitment to returning home.

• Educational commitments: If you are a student, include a letter from your educational institution confirming your enrollment and the date of your return to continue your studies.

You can prove the purpose of your trip by providing the following documents:

• Tourism: Hotel reservations, a detailed travel itinerary, and return flight tickets.

• Business: An invitation letter from a company or business partner in the Schengen Area, along with details of meetings or conferences you plan to attend.

• Family visit: An invitation letter from your host in the Schengen Country, along with their proof of residence and relationship to you.

Tip: Be as specific as possible in your cover letter, detailing the activities and plans during your stay to strengthen your application.

Yes, a cover letter is typically required for a Malta visa application. It should include your personal details (name, address, and passport number), purpose of visiting Malta, travel details, financial means to fund your stay and the intent to return.

Atlys will help you with a customizable cover letter during the application process, free of cost.

You need an invitation letter only if you’re staying with a friend or family in the Schengen Area. The letter should typically include:

• Inviter’s information: Name, address, and a copy of their passport or residency permit.

• Accommodation details: Confirmation that they will host you during your stay.

• Relationship: A brief explanation of your relationship with the host and the purpose of your visit.

If your passport is set to expire soon, it is advisable to renew it before applying for a Malta visa. Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date from the Schengen Area.

If your passport has only one empty page left, it may suffice for the visa to be issued. However, it is important to note that immigration authorities at your destination might require additional empty spaces for entry and exit stamps.

Recommendation: It is advisable to renew your passport if you have limited blank pages remaining. An Indian passport renewal through the 'Tatkal' (express) service typically takes around 3 days.

Yes, you can apply for a Schengen visa if you have overstayed on a previous visa, but you must be prepared to explain the circumstances of the overstay and provide evidence that it was unintentional or unavoidable. 

A clear and honest explanation, along with supporting documents (such as medical records if the overstay was due to health reasons), can help mitigate the negative impact of a previous overstay.

To obtain a multiple-entry Malta visa, particularly under the new rules favourable for Indians, follow these steps:

• Establish a travel history: First, obtain and lawfully use two Schengen visas within the previous three years.

• Apply for a multiple-entry visa: After meeting the above condition, apply for a multiple-entry visa, which can be valid for up to two years initially. If you use this visa correctly, you can then apply for a five-year multiple-entry visa.

• Ensure passport validity: Ensure your passport has sufficient validity to cover the entire duration of the multiple-entry visa you seek.

• Provide strong justifications: Your application should include reasons for needing multiple entries, such as frequent business trips, family visits, or ongoing travel requirements.

• Use the Cascade Regime: The Visa Code Regulation (EC) No 810/2009 governs the issuance of Schengen visas. Under the EU's "cascade" regime, Indian nationals can progress from a two-year visa to a five-year visa, enjoying travel rights similar to visa-free nationals if all conditions are met.

For more detailed guidance, visit the European External Action Service.

Here’s how you can apply for the Malta tourist visa from India: 

Gather Your Documents: 

Start by collecting all the required documents, such as your valid passport, the last three months’ bank statements, payslips, income tax returns, and any other documents listed in the requirements.

Log in to Atlys: 

Visit the Atlys website or open the mobile app. Select Malta as your destination.

Book Your Appointment: 

Fill in your details, upload the necessary documents, and pay the appointment fee. Once you're done, you’ll receive a confirmation for your visa appointment.

Submit Your Documents: 

Go to the visa application centre on your scheduled date. Atlys will arrange for your documents to be submitted in the correct order. During your visit, you’ll also complete the required biometrics (fingerprints and facial scans).

Pay the Atlys & Service Fee: 

Pay the Atlys Fee and wait for the processing, including travel insurance and courier fees, to be completed.

Receive Your Visa: 

Once approved, your passport with the Malta tourist visa stamp will be delivered directly to your home.

Tip: Begin your visa application process at least 6-8 weeks before your planned travel date to account for processing time and any unforeseen delays.

Yes, you will need to submit your passport for the processing of your Malta visa application. The passport is required for identity verification, for checking your travel history, and for affixing the visa sticker if approved.

No, a consular interview is not a mandatory part of the Malta visa application process. 

Note: In special circumstances, such as when there are discrepancies in your application or if the visa officer deems it necessary for further assessment, an interview may be requested. 

There is no official expedited processing service for Schengen visas. That is why it is essential to apply well in advance and ensure your application is complete and accurate to prevent any further delay.

To increase your chances of a successful Malta visa application, keep these points in mind:

• Complete and correct documentation: Ensure all required documents are accurate, complete, and meet the specified requirements. Any inconsistencies or false/fake documents can lead to immediate rejection.

• Clear purpose of visit: Ambiguities in your travel purpose for visiting can lead to rejection. If you are visiting for tourism, ensure that you provide coherent travel plans through your travel itinerary or cover letter. 

• Sufficient financial proof: Clearly demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your stay in Malta and other Schengen States if visiting. If you believe that you do not have the minimum bank balance, provide additional proof of income, such as statements of funds or FDs. 

• Valid travel insurance: Obtain comprehensive travel insurance that meets the mandatory coverage requirements. Ensure you are purchasing it from the insurance providers approved by the government. 

• Strong proof of ties to India: Failure to prove strong ties to India could indicate a risk of overstaying. You must provide strong evidence, such as an employment letter, property deed or family ties, that clearly shows the authorities that you will not overstay.

Recommended: For detailed insight, read our blog on the common Schengen visa rejection reasons and how to avoid them.

Malta visa processing time for Indians typically takes 15 working days from the receipt of a complete application. However, this timeframe may be extended to 45 calendar days when additional documents or an interview are requested.

You can easily track the status of your Malta visa application using the Atlys Malta visa status tracking tool.

No, you cannot work or engage in any form of employment while on a Malta tourist visa. The visa is intended for tourism, leisure, or short-term visits, not for work purposes. If caught working remotely, you could face penalties, deportation, and future visa bans.

If you lose your passport with a Malta visa while travelling, you should immediately report the loss to the local police and obtain a police report. You will then need to visit the nearest Indian embassy or consulate to apply for an emergency passport. You can also inquire about the possibility of reissuing the visa.

If your Malta visa is approved but your travel dates change, you can still use the visa as long as the new travel dates fall within the visa’s validity period. However, if your new travel dates are outside the visa’s validity, you will need to apply for a new visa.

Yes, you can bring prescription medication into Malta on a Schengen visa, but you should carry a prescription or a doctor’s letter on the official letterhead that includes important information, such as your name, the name of the medication, dosage, usage and the prescribed amount.

Yes, you can bring your pet to Malta with a Schengen visa, but there are specific requirements your pet must meet:

• Microchip: Your pet must be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit pet microchip.

• Rabies vaccination: Your pet must be vaccinated against rabies, and the vaccination must be administered at least 21 days before travel.

• Veterinary certificate: If travelling from outside the EU, a third-country official veterinary certificate is required.

• Tapeworm treatment: Dogs must be treated for tapeworm 24-120 hours before entering Malta.

Tip: You must check the specific pet import requirements for Malta and the Schengen Area well in advance of your trip to ensure compliance.

If your Malta tourist visa application is rejected, you can either reapply or appeal the decision. If you are reapplying, ensure that you have addressed the reasons for rejection and that all the documents are complete and accurate this time.

For further details, read our complete guide on the Schengen visa reapplication and appeal process.

If you need to extend your stay in Malta for medical reasons, you can apply for a visa extension at the local immigration office in Malta. You will need to provide:

• Medical certificate: A certificate from a Malta medical professional explaining the medical necessity for your extended stay.

• Proof of insurance: Evidence that your travel insurance covers the extended period.

• Financial proof: Proof that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during the extended stay.

Note: You must apply for the extension before your current visa expires and ensure that all documentation is thorough and convincing.

You must not overstay. If you exceed the 90-day limit, it can lead to several serious consequences, such as:

• You may be required to pay a fine for the period you overstayed.

• Depending on the duration of the overstay, you could be banned from re-entering Malta for a specific period of time.

• You may face legal action, especially if the overstay is significant.

Note: Overstaying can negatively affect your chances of obtaining visas in the future, not only for Malta but also for other countries. Hence, you must not overstay.