Malta Student Visa from Nigeria Explained: Requirements and Eligibility

Securing a Malta student visa can be a transformative opportunity for Nigerian students seeking higher education in a picturesque Mediterranean setting. If you’ve dreamed of studying in Malta’s charming universities, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the requirements, fees, and eligibility criteria. We’ll also give you insights on the visa process to help you plan your move effectively.

Is a Malta Student Visa Easy to Get?
Is Malta Open for Nigerians?
How Much is the Malta Visa Fee in Nigeria?
What Do I Need for a Malta Student Visa from Nigeria?
What Documents Are Required for a Malta Student Visa?
How Much Bank Balance is Required for a Malta Student Visa?
How to Get a Malta Student Visa from Nigeria
How Long Does It Take to Process Malta Student Visa?
Malta Student Visa Success Rate
Malta Student Visa Rejection Rate
FAQs
Conclusion

Is a Malta Student Visa Easy to Get?

While applying for a Malta student visa may require effort, it’s certainly achievable! The key to a successful application lies in demonstrating your commitment to studying in Malta. This involves maintaining good academic grades, proving English proficiency, and showing financial stability to support your studies and living expenses.

Malta actively encourages international students, so meeting these requirements significantly boosts your chances of approval. It may not be an effortless process, but with determination and preparation, you can succeed!

See: Luxembourg Student Visa from Nigeria Explained: Requirements and Eligibility

Is Malta Open for Nigerians?

Yes, Malta is welcoming to Nigerians! The Malta Permanent Residence Programme allows non-EU nationals, including Nigerians, to obtain permanent residency in Malta. This residency provides various benefits, including the ability to live in Malta and travel within the Schengen Area without needing a visa.

If you’re a Nigerian interested in relocating to Malta, the Malta Permanent Residence Programme is an excellent opportunity to consider!

How Much is the Malta Visa Fee in Nigeria?

When applying for a Schengen visa to study in Malta, Nigerian students need to pay a fee of €70 (approximately Naira equivalent). For children aged 6 to 12, the fee is €45, while children under 6 are exempt from fees. Applicants from Armenia, Russia, or Azerbaijan qualify for a reduced fee of €35.

For long-stay visas, the fee is €100, and for work permits, it amounts to €280.50. Citizens from EU, EEA (European Economic Area), or Switzerland are exempt from these fees.

Pro Tip: Always verify the latest visa fees on the official Maltese Embassy or Consulate website, as they may fluctuate.

What Do I Need for a Malta Student Visa from Nigeria?

If you intend to study in Malta for over three months (90 days), you must apply for a student visa at the nearest Maltese Consulate. Be prepared for an in-person appointment if requested.

Your student visa will allow you to stay in Malta longer than a visit visa, with the duration depending on your study program. However, non-EU/EEA students applying for part-time day or evening courses are ineligible for this visa.

Upon arrival in Malta, register with the authorities and apply for an e-Residence Permit if you plan to stay for over 90 days. Note that scheduling appointments at consulates may take 4-6 weeks, and processing can take another 1-4 weeks. Hence, it may take up to 9 weeks from application submission to visa issuance.

What Documents Are Required for a Malta Student Visa?

To ensure a smooth application process, prepare the following documents:

Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least six months beyond your visa expiration date and contain two blank pages.
Passport Photos: Two recent passport-sized photos (taken within the last three months).
Letter of Admission: Proof of acceptance from your chosen Maltese educational institution.
Flight Reservation: Documentation including your bio-data, airline details, and travel dates.
Schengen Medical Insurance: Coverage certificate for risks up to at least €30,000.
Bank Statement: Six months of bank statements proving financial stability to cover your study and living costs.
Sponsor Letter (if applicable): A letter from your sponsor detailing their commitment to covering your expenses.
Educational Documents: Transcripts, certificates, diplomas, etc., proving your academic qualifications.
Visa Application Form: Accurately completed and signed visa application form.

See: New Zealand Student Visa from Nigeria | Application Requirements

How Much Bank Balance is Required for a Malta Student Visa?

When applying for a student visa, provide a detailed bank statement or money transfer receipts reflecting your financial transactions over the past three months. The statement must indicate that you have at least €854 (or the equivalent in your local currency) for each month you intend to stay in Malta.

Keep in mind that a mere bank balance certificate will not suffice; you must present a detailed statement including all transactions. The €854 monthly requirement is based on estimated living costs, covering accommodation, food, transport, and other daily expenses.

If someone sponsors your education, you’ll still need to demonstrate the required amount in your account and provide a sponsorship letter outlining their responsibilities.

Remember, maintaining the required bank balance for a minimum of three months before your application is crucial. Recent deposits may raise red flags during the review process.

For questions or clarifications regarding the financial requirements, contact the Maltese Consulate or Embassy in Nigeria.

How to Get a Malta Student Visa from Nigeria

Here’s a step-by-step guide to obtaining a Malta student visa from Nigeria:

1. Choose Your School and Apply

Select your preferred university or institution in Malta and apply. Upon acceptance, you will receive a letter confirming your admission, a vital component of your visa application.

2. Download and Fill Out the Visa Application

Visit the official website to download the Maltese student visa application form. Fill it out thoroughly and print a copy for your records.

3. Gather Your Documents

Collect all necessary documents that substantiate your application, including:

Valid passport
Recent passport photos
School acceptance letter
Flight reservation
Valid Schengen medical insurance
Financial proof (bank statements or sponsor documents)
Educational documents (transcripts, certificates)

4. Submit Your Application

You can submit your application in two ways:

VFS Global Office: Locate the nearest VFS Global office in Nigeria to submit your documents and application fee. They may also assist with passport delivery after processing.
Maltese Embassy: Alternatively, submit your application directly at the Maltese embassy in Nigeria. Check their website or contact them to see if an appointment is necessary.

5. Wait for Processing and Decision

Be patient after submitting your application; processing can take up to two months.

6. Collect Your Passport (if Approved)

Upon approval, collect your passport with the visa affixed from the VFS Global office or the Maltese embassy, depending on your submission method.

See: Canada Student Visa in Nigeria: Minimum Bank Balance Explained

How Long Does It Take to Process Malta Student Visa?

Typically, the processing time for a Malta student visa is about four weeks. Once approved, you can stay in Malta for the duration of your academic program. If you wish to extend your studies post-graduation, you can apply to stay for an additional year.

During the processing period, Maltese authorities will review your application and supporting documents, including your passport, financial proof, and academic qualifications.

To avoid delays, apply well in advance of your intended travel date.

Malta Student Visa Success Rate

Malta boasts one of the highest visa approval rates, with over 95% of student visa applications successfully granted. This high success rate indicates a more streamlined process compared to other countries, allowing students to commence their studies without undue stress.

Knowing that your diligent preparation could lead to visa approval is a significant motivator for many students aiming to study in Malta.

Malta Student Visa Rejection Rate

Despite Malta’s high approval rates, some applications, approximately 5 to 10%, may still face rejection. Common reasons for rejection include minor errors in the application or issues such as insufficient funds and lack of enrollment proof at a Maltese university.

If your application is denied, you may appeal the decision or reapply after addressing the reasons for the rejection. Always ensure your application is thorough and accurate to maximize your chances of success.

FAQs

Does Malta Have an Embassy in Nigeria?

Currently, Malta does not have an embassy in Nigeria. However, you can apply through the nearest embassy or consulate in nearby countries or utilize VFS Global for application submission.

How Much Is the Processing Fee for a Malta Student Visa?

The processing fee for a Malta student visa is €70 for adults and €45 for children aged 6 to 12.

Can I Work in Malta While Studying?

Yes, international students can work part-time while studying in Malta. You can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during holidays.

Conclusion

Applying for a Malta student visa from Nigeria can be a fulfilling journey toward a world-class education in an idyllic setting. By following the steps outlined in this guide and ensuring you meet the necessary requirements, you can significantly improve your chances of a successful application.

Prepare your documents, plan ahead, and embrace the opportunity to study in Malta—a country that not only values education but also offers a rich cultural experience.