Malta Business Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time
Key highlights
- Access to the entire Schengen Area for business meetings and networking.
- Valid for attending conferences, corporate events, and trade fairs.
- Permits contract negotiations and site visits across Malta.
- Standardised application process via the Schengen framework.
- Available for multiple entries if frequent business travel is documented.
- Short-term stay of up to 90 days for non-EU entrepreneurs.
Processing time
15 calendar days
Processing times can increase significantly during peak summer travel months or if additional security clearance is required for certain nationalities.
Estimated cost
~$130 - $160
- Schengen Visa Fee (Standard Adults)€90 (~$98)
- Visa Fee for children 6-12 years€45 (~$49)
- Visa Service Centre Processing Fee (e.g. VFS Global)Varies by provider
Requirements
- Proof of business intent (e.g., invitation from a Maltese company)
- Proof of professional status (employment contract or business license)
- Evidence of sufficient funds for the duration of the stay in Malta
- No prior record of Schengen visa overstays or violations
- Travel medical insurance valid for all Schengen countries
- Confirmed return flight bookings and itinerary
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or declaration by host)
- Valid travel document (passport) issued within the last 10 years
Documents you'll need
- Completed and signed Schengen Visa application form
- Valid passport with at least two blank pages and 3 months validity beyond stay
- Official invitation letter from the Maltese host company
- Two recent passport-sized photographs (Schengen standard)
- Proof of travel insurance with minimum €30,000 coverage
- Round-trip flight reservations and proof of accommodation
- Proof of personal financial means (bank statements for last 3 months)
- Certificate of incorporation or business profile of the employer company
How to apply, step by step
- 1
Determine Jurisdiction
Identify the nearest Maltese Embassy or VFS Global centre where you will lodge your application.
- 2
Complete Application Form
Complete the harmonised Schengen Visa application form accurately, ensuring you select 'Business' as the purpose of travel.
- 3
Gather Documentation
Collect all supporting documents, including the crucial invitation letter from the Maltese entity and your financial records.
- 4
Schedule Appointment
Book an appointment for biometric data collection (fingerprints and photo) at the visa application centre.
- 5
Submit and Pay
Visit the centre to submit your file and pay the non-refundable visa fee in the local currency.
- 6
Processing Phase
Wait for the assessment. You can often track your application status online using a reference number.
- 7
Passport Collection
Once a decision is reached, collect your passport. Check the visa sticker immediately for any errors in dates or name spelling.
Tips to avoid refusal
- Ensure your invitation letter specifically mentions the dates of your visit and the Nature of business.
- Provide a cover letter from your current employer explaining your role and the necessity of the trip.
- Do not book non-refundable flights until the visa is granted; use flight reservations/itineraries instead.
- Keep your bank statements original and stamped by the bank; prints from online banking are often rejected.
- Ensure your travel insurance specifically mentions 'Malta' or 'Schengen Area' and covers repatriation.
- Double-check that your passport has at least two blank pages for the visa sticker and entry/exit stamps.
Frequently asked questions
Related visa guides
PermitlyHQ provides informational software tools only and does not offer legal, immigration, or consulting services. Visa policies change frequently — always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying.