Malta Work Visa Guide for Indians: Visa, Fee, Time & More 2025

In 2025, the main route to a Malta work visa is the Single Permit, which is a combined work and residence permit. Applications are filed online by the Maltese employer after a job offer; applicants can not apply directly. Work Visa for India: For a Malta work visa for Indian citizens, an Approval in Principle is used to apply for a national D visa through the visa centre. Malta's work visa processing time is up to four months. 

What Are the Different Types of Malta Work Visas Available in 2025

 The different types of Malta work visas are:

Also Read: Visa Cost for Germany from India: Updated Cost Guide 

Which Documents Do You Need for Your Malta Work Visa Application in 2025?

To obtain a Malta work visa in 2025, you'll need to submit a complete set of documents through a process called a Single Permit application, which your Maltese employer handles on Identita's online portal.. For voice search queries like "What documents are needed for a Malta work visa", the essentials are a valid passport, job offer, and health insurance - as outlined in the checklist below: 

1. Valid Passport: Original with at least 8 months' validity beyond your intended stay. Include copies of all pages, certified accurate for the bio-data page.

2. Visa Application Form: Fully Filled and Signed. For the national D-visa (entry visa), use the form from VFS Global if you are applying from abroad, like India.

3. Passport-Sized Photos: Two recent colour photos (35x45mm) on a white background in accordance with ICAO standards.

4. Employment Contract: Original signed with job role & salary (meeting thresholds such as EUR45,000 for KEI) & duration & employer detail; in English or translated

5. Proof of Qualifications and Experience: Certified copies of Degrees/Diplomas/ CV; Minimum 3 years relevant experience if not having formal qualifications; Include references with contact details.

6. Medical Insurance: Policy is included to cover medical emergencies of at least EUR30,000, valid for your entire stay in Malta.

7. Accommodation Proof: Rental Accommodation or Hotel Booking. This should include the landlord/tenant details, signatures, and registration with Malta's Rent Authority, if applicable.

8. Financial Documentation: Bank statements or evidence that you have enough money to support yourself (for example, EUR21,000+ annual salary proof); not always required, but often asked.

9. Police Clearance Certificate: from your country of residence/origin, valid for 6 months; must confirm no criminal record

10. Health Certificate: Medical certificate stating good health, including the completion of any necessary tests (e.g, TB screening).

11. Labour Market Test Documentation: Employer is required to provide documentation of job advertisement (e.g, 2 weeks on local platforms) with no suitable EU/Maltese candidates.

12. Biometric Requirements: Fingerprint and Photo taken at VFS or upon arrival in Malta for the residence permit.

13. Additional Fees Proof: Receipts for Malta work visa fees, such as EUR600 for a Single Permit, or EUR150 for a D-visa.

The Malta work visa processing time has gone beyond the average of 2 months.

What Specific Documents Indian Citizens Need for Malta Work Visa?

Indian citizens applying for a Malta work visa for Indian nationals follow the general checklist, but with India-specific elements, such as police clearance from the regional passport office, attestation of educational certificates, and the MEA apostille. Submissions are sometimes made through VFS Global centres in major cities, such as Delhi, Mumbai, or Bangalore. You can schedule an appointment online at vfsglobal.com. Contact the Maltese Embassy in New Delhi (email: maltaembassy.newdelhi@gov.mt) for location-based guidance. This is targeted searches from Indian cities, including the Malta work visa requirements, such as biometric enrollment at VFS. 

1. Police Clearance Certificate (PCC): Indian regional passport office/through Passport Seva portal. 6 months valid. MEA apostilled for Malaysia acceptance. Apply online at passportindia.gov.in. Fingerprints attestation required.

2. Attestation of Educational Certificates: Degrees/diplomas required attestation by the issuing university, the state HRD, and MEA. An apostille is required for Malta Recognition.

3. Medical Examination Requirements: Full health check-up, including TB test, from a panel doctor that has the Maltese authorities' approval; results valid for 3 months.

4. Embassy-Specific Procedures: Submit a D-visa application at VFS India with an Approval in Principle letter from Identity Fees in INR equivalent (e.g, EUR150 visa + EUR100 service). For Delhi applicants, processing is similar to the standard Malta work visa processing time of up to 4 months.

What Employment Contract Requirements Must You Fulfill For a Malta Work Visa?

The employment contract is one of the foundations of the Malta work visa requirements, which is submitted by your employer when you make the Single Permit application. It must be a signed original in English (or translated), which is proof of a genuine job offer that is compliant with labour market tests and salaries (such as EUR21,000 minimum for general positions). Non-compliance, such as missing job descriptions, is a standard rejection cause, and it could delay Malta work visa processing time. 

1. Job Description: Specific duties and responsibilities: how the role addresses a Maltese skills gap; must be in line with the advertised job

2. Salary Specifications: Gross annual salary amount (e.g, [?]EUR45,000 for KEI); include bonuses and allowances, and the compliance with minimums in the sector.

3. Employment Duration: Minimum fr 6 months for most permits. Start/end date and renewal options

4. Employer Registration Proof: Company's Malta registration number, tax compliance certificate, and inability to hire locally (e.g, Job Ad evidence).

5. Labour Market Test Documentation: Evidence that the job was advertised for at least 2 weeks on a platform such as Jobsplus, with no suitable candidates from the EU. 

Also Read: Spain Work Visa: Types, Fees, Process, Documents & More

How Much Does a Malta Work Visa Cost for Indian Citizens in 2025?

Malta work visa costs for Indian citizens in 2025 are led by the Single Permit cost of EUR600 (First-time) plus a long-stay D visa with VAC service fees that can run to nearly EUR150 with a varying total outlay considering your route, add-ons, and exchange rates around indian ropee 103.5/EUR as of September 2025. KEI (fast track) and EU Blue Card applications are on the same Single Permit fee schedule, and an optional, premium D- visa channel for EU Blue Card applicants costs EUR 300, inclusive of visa fees, and optional services VAC costs are added to the total budget. 

Malta Work Visa Fees & Types 2025:

How Much Do Different Malta Work Visa Types Cost?

Malta work visa fees differ according to the type of permit, with the new work visa fees coming into effect from August 1st, 2025. The latest work visa fees increase on all work permits. For first-time Yeahs Permit and Key Employee are EU 600, for the Renewal applications are standardised costing EU150 per year. EU Blue Card holders pay the same rates, and so the cost in Malta is competitive, on par with other EU destinations such as Germany or the Netherlands. 

What Additional Costs Should You Budget for Malta Work Visa?

The additional costs for Malta work visa are:

1. Document Translation and Attestation: Certified English translations of certified and attested Indian documents (degrees, PCC). Additional provider fees, MEA/HCI guidance for avoiding rework costs

2. Medical Examinations and Insurance: Health examinations (e.g., TB) + Schengen medical insurance (€ 30,000) for the duration of the stay; prices vary depending on the clinic/insurance company.

3. Travel, Accommodation, and Deposits: Costs such as one-way tickets to Malta, initial accommodation booking/deposits, and local registrations can be costly upfront.

4. VAC Optional Services: Courier return, SMS updates, and premium lounge services are optional add-on services at the visa application centre and are charged additionally where offered.

5. Employer or Legal Consultancy: Some employers hire advisors who access the services of a private consultant, budgeting for the service fees in addition to the official Malta work visa fees.

How Long Does Malta Work Visa Processing Take in 2025? Experts Insights

In 2025 Malta work visa processing time varies within routes: The Key Employee Initiative taking approximately five working days after a complete submission, whereas standard Single Permit files are bound by 4 months however taking place on average about 2 months, and the national D-visa step within India typically demanding 6-8 weeks, there are prolonged services channels available through VFS/CVU when eligible.

Actual timelines are dependent on the completeness of the application, the compliance of the employer, the availability of the appointment, and the background checks of all the stakeholders involved in the Malta work visa process. 

Malta Work Visa Processing Comparison Table:

Which Factors Affect Your Malta Work Visa Processing Time?

The factors that affect your Malta work visa processing time are: 

• Application Completeness: KEI files are only "submitted" if all the checklist documents are uploaded; incomplete D-visa files are not accepted at VFS counters, and as such, the timelines are not started.

• Employer Compliance and Stakeholder Checks: Single Permit cases are reviewed by Identita and other external bodies (e.g, Jobsplus, police, tax), and these multi-agency verification checks have an impact on the overall processing window up to the 4-month cap.

• Appointment, Availability, and Seasonality: VFS suggests a minimum of 6-8 weeks for an extended stay Visa, and start early for an in-time Visa. The peak period and limited slots can extend the travel visa application stage for Indian applicants.

• Data Consistency and Document Quality: Mismatches or missing translations cause clarification requests and re-work delay approvals in both KEI and standard routes.

How Can You Speed Up Your Malta Work Visa Application Processing?

Ways to speed up your Malta work visa processing time:

• To use the fast track KEI route if you are eligible (managerial/ high technical role, salary/ qualification criteria), this is the previous time-bound (five working days from complete submission).

• Submit a complete, checklist-accurate pack on day one. Once mandated at upload /appointment, KEI clocks and VFS acceptance both depend on complete documentation.

• Utilise extended service routing where available to simplify long-stay D visa submission processing directly with CVU, through VFS's extended channel, to keep the submission timeline predictable.

• Book in advance and avoid bottlenecks during peak seasons. VFS prefers travellers to plan well in advance, as the minimum processing time for long-stay visas in India is 6-8 weeks.

• Ensure employer readiness and compliance- to reduce back and forth with stakeholders during Single Permit adjudication within the statutory window.  

Also Read: Canada Work Visa Processing Time: Expert's Visa Guide 

How Do You Apply for a Malta Work Visa Step-by-Step in 2025?

Applying for a Malta work visa in 2025 involves a structured process centred on the Single Permit, which combines work and residence authorisation. Below is a comprehensive 7-step guide, optimised for how-to searches—track progress via Identità's online portal or VFS status checker.

1. Secure a Job Offer: Obtain a formal employment contract from a Malta-registered employer that meets Malta work visa requirements, such as salary thresholds (e.g., €45,000 for KEI). Deadline: Before any application; outcome: Signed contract ready for submission.

2. Employer Submits Single Permit Application: Your employer files online via singlepermit.gov.mt, uploading documents like your passport, CV, and qualifications; pay €600 fee during this step. Deadline: While you're abroad or in Malta; outcome: Interim Receipt or Approval in Principle issued.

3. Apply for National D-Visa (if Abroad): Use the Approval in Principle to book a VFS appointment in India; submit forms, pay the €150-250 visa fee, and provide biometrics. Deadline: Within 60 days of approval; outcome: D-visa stamped in passport for entry.

4. Travel to Malta: Enter using the D-visa or visa-exempt status; ensure valid for at least 8 months. Deadline: Promptly after visa issuance; outcome: Legal entry to finalise permit.

5. Attend Biometric Appointment: Book via Identità's guidelines for fingerprints and photos; bring all originals. Deadline: As specified in the approval letter; outcome: Biometric data captured for permit processing.

6. Await Final Approval: Identità reviews with stakeholders like Jobsplus; track status online. Deadline: Up to 4 months max; outcome: Notification of approval via email/SMS.

7. Collect Residence Permit: Pick up your card from the Identity offices; it authorises work and stay. Deadline: Upon notification; outcome: Valid Single Permit, renewable annually for €150.

What Pre-Application Steps Should You Complete Before Applying?

Before diving into the Malta work visa process, focus on foundational steps to meet Malta work visa requirements and avoid delays. This targets job-seeking queries for Indian professionals, where the Malta work visa for Indian nationals often starts with targeted searches on platforms like Jobsplus.

• Job Search Strategies: Use Jobsplus.mt or LinkedIn for openings in high-demand sectors like IT or healthcare; aim for roles meeting salary thresholds to qualify for faster routes like KEI.

• Employer Verification: Confirm the company's Malta registration via the Malta Business Registry; red flags include unregistered firms or promises without contracts, which can lead to rejections.

• Understand Labour Market Test: Employers must advertise the job for 2 weeks on local platforms to prove no suitable EU candidates; review this with your potential employer.

• Contract Negotiation Tips: Negotiate terms covering salary, duration (min. 6 months), and benefits; ensure it aligns with Malta work visa fees and processing time expectations.

How Do You Submit Your Malta Work Visa Application Online Through VFS Global?

For Indian applicants, VFS Global handles the D-visa portion of the Malta work visa, integrating with Identità's Single Permit process. This step-by-step targets platform-specific searches, with common issues like upload errors resolvable via VFS support (vfsglobal.com).

• Portal Navigation: Visit vfsglobal.com/one-pager/malta-extended-services/india; create an account and select "Work Permit" category.

• Appointment Booking: Choose between the standard (€150 visa + €100 service) or extended (€250 visa + €150 service) option. Book slots 6-8 weeks in advance to align with the processing time for Malta work visas.

• Document Upload Requirements: Scan and upload your passport, Approval in Principle forms, photos, and translations. Files must be under 5MB in size and in PDF/JPG format.

• Fee Payment Methods: Pay online via card during booking (INR equivalent); non-refundable, with optional add-ons like courier.

What Happens During Your Malta Work Visa Biometric Appointment?

The biometric appointment is a key requirement for the Malta work visa, which involves collecting fingerprints and photos for security purposes. This addresses appointment anxiety for Indian applicants, with a preparation checklist to minimise Malta work visa processing time delays.

• Biometric Data Collection Procedures: At VFS or Identità offices, provide 10 fingerprints and a digital photo; the process takes 10-15 minutes.

• Required Documentation: Please bring your passport, Approval in Principle, appointment confirmation, and all original documents from the checklist.

• Interview Preparation Tips: Be prepared to answer basic questions about your job offer and intentions. Dress professionally and provide honest answers—focus on the contract details.

• What to Expect During Consular Meetings: No full interview for most; if needed, it's brief and verification-focused; arrive 15 minutes early to avoid rescheduling. 

What Are the Malta Work Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens in 2025?

Indian citizens seeking a Malta work visa in 2025 must meet specific eligibility criteria under the Single Permit system, which combines work and residence authorisation. This targets the Malta work visa for Indian applicants, with requirements focusing on a valid job offer, qualifications, and supporting documents to ensure compliance with Malta work visa requirements. Processing aligns with standard Malta work visa processing time (up to 4 months), and Malta work visa fees start at €600 for the permit plus €150-250 for the D-visa. Below is a comprehensive list of criteria, presented with pass/fail indicators and suggestions for borderline cases.

• Job Offer from Maltese Employer: Must have a formal contract from a registered Maltese company demonstrating a skills gap (e.g., after labour market test). Pass: A valid offer meeting the salary threshold (e.g., €21,000 minimum)

• Educational Qualifications: Relevant degree or diploma recognised in Malta; Indian qualifications need an MEA apostille.

• Work Experience: At least 3 years in a relevant field, if no formal degree, as proven by a CV and references. Pass: Documented experience supporting the job offer. Fail: Insufficient proof.

• Language Requirements: No mandatory test, but English proficiency (e.g, IELTS 6.0+) is implied for most roles; Maltese is not required. 

What Educational and Professional Qualifications Do You Need for Malta Work Visa?

Indian applicants must provide proof of qualifications matching the job offer, with Malta work visa requirements emphasising recognition and equivalency for degrees from India. This targets credential evaluation queries, where Malta work visa processing time can extend if assessments are needed.

• Degree Recognition Procedures: Indian degrees require attestation by the issuing university, state HRD, and MEA apostille for Malta acceptance; submit to MFHEA for equivalency if not standard.

• Professional Certification Requirements: Regulated professions (e.g., engineering) need local certification; unregulated roles accept Indian licenses with proof.

• Skills Assessment Processes: Employer verifies via CV; for KEI, 3+ years of experience or qualifications in high-tech fields.

• Equivalency Determinations for Indian Qualifications: Utilise NARIC or MFHEA tools. UGC-recognised Indian degrees are often equivalent; however, borderline cases (e.g., online degrees) may require additional validation.

How Much Financial Proof Do You Need for Malta Work Visa Application?

Financial stability is a key requirement for the Malta work visa, with Indian applicants needing to demonstrate sufficient funds via bank statements for the past six months, ensuring self-sufficiency without public support. This addresses money-related concerns by incorporating Malta work visa fees into the budget.

• Minimum Financial Thresholds: No fixed amount, but demonstrate €21,000+ annual equivalent (aligned with salary minimums); cover initial 3-6 months living costs (~€1,000/month).

• Acceptable Proof Documentation: Original bank statements, salary slips, or sponsor letters with their financials.

• Bank Statement Requirements: Recent (last 6 months), showing consistent balance; must be stamped/verified.

• Sponsorship Options: An Employer or family sponsor can provide a guarantee letter with their bank proof if personal funds are insufficient.

• Financial Planning for Malta Relocation: Budget €5,000-10,000 for setup (including fees); use a calculator: Monthly expenses x 6 + €600 permit fee. 

Also Read: Ireland Work Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens

Which Jobs Are Most in Demand for Malta Work Visa Holders in 2025?

Malta’s most in-demand jobs in 2025 cluster in technology, healthcare, finance/professional services, iGaming/fintech, tourism/hospitality, and maritime/logistics, with competitive salaries and clear pathways suited to Malta work visa applicants, including Malta work visa for Indian professionals. Highly skilled roles in IT and healthcare face acute shortages, often meeting KEI/EU Blue Card thresholds and benefiting from faster Malta work visa processing time and strong renewal prospects despite Malta work visa fees, as detailed below.

What Technology and IT Opportunities Are Available for Malta Work Visa Holders?

The technology and IT opportunities available for Malta visa holders are:

What Healthcare Career Opportunities Exist for Malta Work Visa Applicants?

The healthcare career opportunities that exist for Malta work visa applicants are:

Can Your Family Join You on Malta Work Visa in 2025?

Yes—immediate family can join a holder of a Malta work visa via Malta’s family reunification framework, subject to income, housing, insurance, and timing rules, and applications must be lodged. At the same time, dependants remain abroad to be admissible. 

• Eligibility hinges on a valid residence permit and a satisfactory residence history for the sponsor, as well as “stable and regular resources” at least equivalent to the national wage benchmark plus 20% per dependent, and accommodation comparable to that of Maltese families.

• Applications must be filed before relatives travel; submissions made when the family is already in Malta are inadmissible except for newborns born in Malta under recognised exceptions.

• Each dependent must hold private health insurance with a minimum €100,000 coverage, valid in Malta/Schengen for the intended residence period.

• Eligible family members include a spouse aged 21+ and unmarried minor children; other adult relatives may be considered if genuine dependency is proven after an in-depth assessment.

How Can Your Spouse Get Work Authorisation in Malta?

Spouses generally need their own Single Permit to work, and school-age children can enrol in Maltese schools after residence is granted and the education authorities verify documentation. 

• There is no automatic right to work for dependants under Identità’s Family Members Policy; a spouse must obtain a separate Single Permit before starting employment to remain compliant.

• Under the Family Reunification Regulations (S.L. 217.06), access to employment is permitted “under the same conditions,” and where required, after obtaining any necessary employment licence in line with the sponsor’s immigration status.

• Practical pathway: secure a job offer, have the Maltese employer submit the spouse’s Single Permit application online, and wait for approval before beginning paid work to avoid refusal or sanctions.

How Do You Enrol Your Children in Malta Schools?

To enrol your children in Malta schools:

• Education is compulsory from the ages of 5 to 16 under Malta’s framework, with pre-primary education starting at age three and structured pathways through the primary and secondary stages.

• Placement and enrollment for resident foreign learners are coordinated via Malta’s International Learners Directorate; documentation typically includes passports, birth certificates, address proof, and health/immunisation records.

• Families can choose among state, church, and independent/international schools; instruction is delivered in English and Maltese, depending on the institution and level. 

Also Read: Family Visa Kuwait: Latest Guide for Expatriates

How Long Is Malta Work Visa Valid and Can You Renew It?

Malta work visa holders are typically granted a residence/work authorisation valid for about one year, and it can be renewed annually if employment and compliance conditions continue to be met, with renewals recommended to start 90 days before expiry and a €150 renewal fee payable each year. Over the long term, continuous lawful residence can lead to long-term residence status and, subsequently, eligibility pathways to citizenship, subject to Malta’s residence, integration, and good conduct criteria under national/EU rules. 

• Typical Validity: The Single Permit linked to a Malta work visa is generally issued for around 12 months and tied to the employment contract and ongoing compliance with permit conditions.

• Renewal Timing: Begin renewal 90 days before the card’s expiration; if public-health screening is required, submission may be limited to 30 days before expiration, as per health-screening guidance.

• Renewal Fee: The administrative renewal fee is €150 per year, as outlined in the 2025 fee schedule, payable as part of the renewal workflow on Identità’s portal.

What is the Pathway from Malta Work Visa to Permanent Residency and EU Citizenship?

The pathway from Malta work visa to PR:

• Long-Term Residence Baseline: As a general EU framework, many third-country nationals can pursue long-term residence after 5 years of continuous legal stay, subject to resources, insurance, and integration checks defined in Malta’s implementation.

• Continuity of Residence: Keep uninterrupted residence (allowable short absences only) and renew the Malta work visa on time each year to avoid gaps in lawful stay that can reset eligibility clocks.

• Stable Employment and Taxes: Maintain a valid contract, pay taxes/social contributions, and keep insurance active; these are routinely requested at renewal and support later long-term residence applications.

What Happens If Your Malta Work Visa Application Gets Rejected?

If a Malta work visa is refused, the decision letter explains why and whether an appeal or a fresh application is possible; success typically hinges on addressing documentation gaps and fully meeting the Malta work visa requirements. For Malta work visa for Indian applicants, plan timelines and costs carefully, as rework adds to Malta work visa processing time and Malta work visa fees. 

• Diagnose the refusal match each reason in the decision letter (missing/incorrect documents, funding or insurance gaps, employer/LMT non-compliance, data inconsistencies) against official checklists and address every deficiency before proceeding with the following action.

• Appeal a visa refusal within 15 days to Malta’s Immigration Appeals Board (online or in person); attach the refusal letter, certified supporting documents, and pay the €120 appeal fee as instructed by the authorities.

• Appeal a Single Permit refusal within 3 days to the Immigration Appeals Board under S.L. 217.17; open the appeal promptly to protect a lawful stay while the case is reviewed. 

Also Read: Top 10 Visa Rejected Reasons: Know Latest Changes 

What Should You Expect When Living and Working in Malta as an Indian Professional?

Things to expect when living and working in Malta as Indian professionals are: 

• Cost of living is manageable but rent-heavy; plan monthly budgets with Malta’s 2025 HICP at ~2.1% and factor Malta work visa fees (Single Permit €600; D-visa €150–€250 for Malta work visa for Indian applicants via VFS) before arrival.

• Commuting is affordable and straightforward: a personalised Tallinja card offers free bus travel on regular routes and select ferries. Non-card fares are €2.00 (winter) / €2.50 (summer), with two-hour transfers, aiding quick settlement after the Malta work visa processing time.

• Workplace communication is easy—English and Maltese are official languages—so onboarding, contracts, and Malta work visa requirements are typically handled in English across most sectors. 

2025 Latest Facts and News

Latest Statistics & Developments:

• Malta increased work permit fees to €300 in 2024, up from €280.50 due to rising administrative costs

• Key Employee Initiative processing will be reduced to 5 days for qualified professionals in 2025

• New skills card requirement introduced for tourism sector workers, costing €575

• Digital visa processing enhanced through VFS Global's partnership with streamlined online applications

• Minimum salary threshold maintained at €21,000 annually for standard work permits

• Extended service processing is now available for a premium €250 fee, reducing wait times

• Malta continues attracting tech professionals with the EU Blue Card pathway for high earners 

Also Read: Living Expenses in Germany for Indian Students: Latest Guide

Conclusion

Securing a Malta work visa remains achievable in 2025 with clear steps: a confirmed job offer, complete documentation, and an employer-led Single Permit submission. For Malta work visa for Indian candidates, expect Malta work visa processing time of about two months, meeting Malta work visa requirements on funds, health, and credentials, and budgeting Malta work visa fees (permit, D-visa, VFS) overall costs. Contact TerraTern for more information on What Do You Need to Know About Malta Work Visa in 2025? Complete Guide for Indian Citizens.