Complete Guide to Student Visa in Malta 2026
1. Affordable Tuition Fees and Scholarships
Malta offers quality education at very reasonable costs for international students.
Tuition Fees:
● Bachelor’s programs: €3,000 – €7,000 per year
● Master’s programs: €5,000 – €12,000 per year
Scholarship Options Include:
● University-specific merit-based scholarships
● Partial tuition discounts for high academic performance
● Government-funded or EU student grants (limited availability)
Tip: Early application and strong academics can increase your chances of securing a scholarship.
2. English-Speaking Education Environment
Malta is a fully English-speaking country, making it easier for international students to adapt and succeed.
● All university programs are taught in English
● No language barrier for day-to-day life, studies, or exams
● Opportunity to improve English skills naturally while living and studying
● Professors and staff are experienced in teaching international students
Choosing an English-speaking country like Malta saves you time and money on language courses and helps you focus entirely on your degree.
3. Affordable Living Costs
Malta offers a comfortable lifestyle at reasonable costs for international students.
● Accommodation: €250 – €500 per month (dorms, shared apartments, or private studios)
● Food & Groceries: €150 – €250 per month
● Transport: €30 – €50 per month for public transport
● Entertainment & Leisure: €50 – €100 per month
Living close to your university or sharing accommodation with other students can help you save more money while enjoying Malta’s vibrant lifestyle.
4. Accommodation Options
Malta offers a variety of housing choices to suit different budgets and lifestyles for students.
● University Dormitories: Affordable and great for meeting new friends quickly.
● Shared Apartments: Popular among international students for a social atmosphere.
● Private Studios/Rooms: Ideal for those who prefer privacy and independence.
● Average Cost: €250 – €500 per month depending on location and type
Book your accommodation early to secure the best options near your university and enjoy a smooth start to your student life in Malta.
5. Part-Time Work Opportunities
Malta allows international students to work part-time, making it easier to support living expensesand gain valuable experience.
● Work up to 20 hours per week during semesters
● Full-time work allowed during holidays
● Common jobs: retail, hospitality, tutoring, internships
● Opportunity to improve English skills and build a professional network
Combining part-time work with studies helps you manage expenses while gaining international work experience.
6. Student Life and Cultural Diversity
Malta offers a vibrant student life filled with fun, learning, and opportunities to meet people from all over the world.
● Universities host events, clubs, and social activities for international students.
● Multicultural environment with students from Europe, Asia, and beyond.
● Explore Malta’s rich history, festivals, and Mediterranean lifestyle on weekends.
● Safe and friendly communities make it easy to make friends and feel at home.
Participate in student clubs and cultural events to make the most of your time in Malta, both socially and academically.
Popular Festivals in Malta
Malta is famous for its lively festivals, giving students a chance to experience local culture and have fun outside the classroom.
● Malta International Arts Festival: Music, theater, and dance performances from around the world.
● Carnival Malta: Colorful parades, costumes, and street celebrations every February.
● Isle of MTV Malta: Big music festival featuring international artists.
● Notte Bianca: Night festival with art exhibitions, concerts, and cultural events .
● Traditional Village Feasts: Celebrate local food, music, and heritage in different towns.
Attending festivals is a fun way to meet new people, explore Maltese culture, and make your student life more memorable.
Popular Tourist Places in Malta
Studying in Malta gives you the chance to explore its stunning sights and historic landmarks during your free time.
● Valletta: The capital city with beautiful architecture, museums, and waterfront views.
● Mdina (Silent City): Ancient walled city with narrow streets and rich history.
● Blue Lagoon, Comino: Crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and relaxation.
● St. John’s Co-Cathedral: Famous for its Baroque art and architecture.
● Gozo Island: Scenic landscapes, beaches, and traditional villages.
Weekends are perfect for exploring Malta’s islands—get a ferry to Gozo or Comino and discover hidden gems!
Programs Offered in Malta
Malta offers a wide range of programs for international students, suitable for different interests and career goals.
● Bachelor’s Degrees (3 – 4 Years): Business, IT, Hospitality, Law, Engineering, Arts
● Master’s Degrees (1 – 2 Years): Management, Finance, Computer Science, Tourism, International Relations
● Short Courses & Diplomas ( few Months – 1 Year): Language courses, professional certifications, and specialized training
● Flexible Study Options: Full-time, part-time, and blended learning depending on the program
Choose a program that aligns with your passion and career goals to make the most of your Malta experience.
University Intakes in Malta
Malta universities offer multiple intakes, making it flexible for international students to start their studies.
● Main Intake: September / October – Most popular for Bachelor’s and Master’s programs.
● Spring Intake: February / March – Available for selected programs.
● Short Courses / Diplomas: Multiple intakes throughout the year.
● Application Tip: Apply at least 3–4 months before the intake to secure admission and complete visa procedures smoothly.
Eligibility Criteria
Before applying, make sure you meet these requirements:
● Age: Minimum 18 years
● Academic Qualifications: HSC, Diploma, or equivalent
● English Proficiency: IELTS 5.5–6.0 (depends on the university)
● Financial Proof: Bank statement covering tuition + living costs
Documents Required
1. Valid Passport (at least 6 months)
2. Passport-size photos
3. Academic transcripts & certificates
4. English proficiency certificate (IELTS/TOEFL)
5. Acceptance letter from Malta university
6. Proof of financial means
7. Health insurance
8. Motivation letter / Statement of Purpose
9. CV/Resume (if required)
Step-by-Step Application Process
1. Apply to your chosen university and secure an acceptance letter
2. Collect all necessary documents
3. Complete the Malta student visa application form online
4. Pay the visa application fee (€60–€100)
5. Schedule a visa appointment at Malta consulate / embassy
6. Attend the visa interview with all documents
7. Wait for visa decision (usually 2–4 weeks)
8. Prepare for travel once approved
Visa Fees & Financial Requirements
● Visa fee: €60–€100
● Bank Statement: Minimum €5,000–€8,000 per year
● Tuition Fees: €3,000–€12,000 depending on program
Accommodation Options
● University dormitories
● Shared apartments
● Private studios / rooms
● Average cost: €250–€500 per month
Scholarship Opportunities
● Merit-based university scholarships
● Limited government-funded programs
● Tips: Apply early and maintain strong academic records
After Graduation
● Stay-back option: 6–12 months to search for a job
● Work permit possible if employment is secured
● Schengen travel benefits
Tips for a Successful Visa
● Complete and correctly certified documents
● Strong SOP / motivation letter improves chances
● Financial proof must cover tuition + living costs
● Avoid last-minute submissions
Permanent Residency (PR) Opportunities in Malta
Studying in Malta can be your first step towards building a long-term future in Europe.
● After completing your degree, you can apply for a post-study work permit to stay 6–12 months and search for a job.
● If you secure a full-time job, you can extend your residence permit
● Continuous legal stay and employment in Malta can lead to Permanent Residency eligibility
● As an EU Schengen member, PR in Malta also gives you travel and some work rights across multiple European countries.
Focus on building professional connections and gaining work experience during your studies to improve your PR chances.
