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
Visa policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying. PermitlyHQ provides general guidance and is not a substitute for legal or immigration advice.