Are you stuck on the islands due to the Covid-19 pandemic with a visa that is about to expire? No need to worry. If you are physically present in Malta and your visa or exemption period is about to expire, all you need to do is contact the Central Visa Unit a week before your time of stay elapses, and a temporary authorisation to stay in Malta will be provided.
For the same reason, third country nationals who are studying in Malta are encouraged to regularise their stay up until the end of their course by applying for a national visa. This applies for third-country nationals studying English in an institution which is recognised by the ELT Council and to students who are taking online courses in MQF levels 1 to 4.
Students who are in higher education and who have the validity of their residence permit about to expire should contact Identity Malta Agency in order to extend their permit.
On the other hand, requests for new visas are currently not being accepted except in exceptional circumstances, such as applications for family members of European Union citizens and professionals working in healthcare or caring for the elderly.
Applicants are advised not to queue outside the Central Visa Unit or Identity Malta Agency since, at the moment, applicants are only seen by appointment.
In the meantime, we wish you a safe and pleasant stay in Malta.
Dr Jenilee Agius
Immigration Law - Civil Law
This commentary should not be regarded as legal advice. If your are facing immigration or residency issues, kindly contact us so we can assist you.