Malta entry requirements for Libya passport holders
Updated weekly · Last reviewed June 28, 2026·View sources
Visa required
Max stay
No fixed limit
Passport validity
6 months
Beyond entry date
Return ticket
Required
Or onward travel proof
Proof of funds
Recommended
May be checked
Libyan passport holders need a visa to enter Malta in 2026. Apply at the Maltese embassy or a Schengen visa application center before you travel. Processing can take several weeks, so plan ahead.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Visa application Apply for a visa before travel | Libyan passport holders need a visa to enter Malta. Submit your application through the Malta Identity Malta visa portal. Processing times vary, so apply at least 4 weeks before your departure.Apply for visa | Required |
| Valid passport Must be valid for the entire stay | Your passport must be valid for the full duration of your stay in Malta. No minimum validity beyond departure is required by Maltese authorities, but airlines may enforce 6 months validity — check with your carrier before flying. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Proof of onward travel | Immigration officers at Malta International Airport routinely ask for a return or onward ticket. Have a printed or digital copy of your flight itinerary ready to show at the border. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking or host invitation | Carry a hotel reservation, rental agreement, or a letter of invitation from your host in Malta. Officers may ask for this during the visa application process or at passport control. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Show sufficient financial means | Have bank statements or a credit card ready to demonstrate you can cover your stay. Malta does not publish a fixed minimum amount, but around €50–€100 per day is a safe benchmark. | Recommended |
Apply well in advance
Visa processing can take 15–45 days. Don't book non-refundable flights or hotels until your visa is approved.
Schengen rules apply
With a Malta visa, you can visit other Schengen countries for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. But Malta must be your main destination.
What happens at the border
1
Gather documents
Collect your passport, photos, flight booking, hotel confirmation, travel insurance, bank statements, and the completed visa application form.
2
Book an appointment
Contact the Maltese embassy or a Schengen visa application center (like VFS Global) in Libya to schedule an in-person appointment. Slots can fill up weeks ahead.
3
Attend the appointment
Bring all original documents plus photocopies. You'll submit your application, pay the fee (around €80 for adults), and give biometrics (fingerprints and photo).
4
Wait for processing
Standard processing takes 15 calendar days, but can extend to 45 days if more checks are needed. Track your application online if available.
5
Collect your passport
Once approved, collect your passport with the visa sticker. Check the validity dates and number of entries before you travel.
6
Arrive in Malta
At Malta International Airport (MLA), join the non-EU queue. Present your passport with visa, return ticket, and accommodation proof if asked. Expect questions about your itinerary.
Download Malta Entry Checklist
PDF · Libya Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated June 28, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Tourist visa (single entry)
Max stay90 days within 180-day period
ValidityUp to 3 months from issue date
Cost€80 (approx. $87 USD)
Standard Schengen visa for tourism. Must apply at Maltese embassy or consulate.
Tourist visa (multiple entry)
Max stay90 days within 180-day period
ValidityUp to 1 year or more
Cost€80 (approx. $87 USD)
Allows multiple entries; validity depends on applicant's travel history and justification.
Long-stay visa (National D visa)
Max stayOver 90 days (up to 1 year)
ValidityUp to 1 year
Cost€99 (approx. $108 USD)
For work, study, or family reunification. Requires sponsorship and additional documentation.
work visa
Single Work Permit
Up to 1 year, renewable
€205 (approx. $224 USD) application fee
For employment with a Maltese employer. Requires a job offer and work permit application. Allows long-term stay and family reunification.
Apply student visa
Student Visa (National D visa)
Up to 1 year, renewable
€99 (approx. $108 USD) application fee
For full-time study at a recognized institution. Requires proof of enrollment and sufficient funds. Allows part-time work.
Apply retirement visa
Malta Retirement Programme
Indefinite, subject to conditions
€2,500 (approx. $2,730 USD) application fee
For non-EU retirees with stable income. Requires proof of pension or passive income. Offers tax benefits and residence permit.
Apply Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tourist visa (single entry)Standard Schengen visa fee for adults. | €80 (approx. $87 USD) |
| Tourist visa (multiple entry)Same fee as single entry, but allows multiple entries within validity. | €80 (approx. $87 USD) |
| Visa service fee (if applicable)Additional service charges may apply when applying through a visa application center. | Varies by application center |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Incomplete documents20%
Approval probability calculator
Answer 6 quick questions — we'll estimate how likely you are to be approved for entry based on typical immigration patterns.
Transiting through Malta
Transit visa required
Libyan passport holders require a transit visa to pass through Malta airport even if staying airside, unless they hold a valid visa or residence permit from a Schengen state, UK, US, or Canada.
Exceptions & conditions
- Holders of a valid Schengen visa or residence permit
- Holders of a valid UK, US, or Canada visa or residence permit
Transit hubsMalta International Airport (MLA)
Health & vaccines for Malta
Recommended vaccines
Routine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio, etc.)EssentialHepatitis ARecommendedTyphoidConsiderInfluenzaConsider
Health risks
Ticks and Lyme diseaseLow risk
Risk is low but present in rural areas; use insect repellent and check for ticks.
Food and water safetyLow risk
Tap water is generally safe, but bottled water is recommended for sensitive stomachs.
Based on CDC and WHO guidance. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Immigration offices for extensions
Valletta
Identity Malta Agency (Expatriates Unit)
Triq l-Assedju l-Kbir, Valletta VLT 2000
Mon–Fri 08:00–14:00
Handles visa applications, residence permits, and extensions. Appointments recommended.
St. Julian's
Malta Police General Headquarters (Immigration Section)
St. George's Square, St. Julian's STJ 3201
Mon–Fri 08:00–16:00
For reporting overstay or immigration violations. Not for visa extensions.
Practical information for LY travellers
Country basics
CapitalValletta
LanguageMaltese, English
Driving sideLeft-hand traffic
US driving licenceUS visitors can drive with a valid US driver's license for up to 12 months.
Money
CurrencyEuro (EUR)
Exchange rate
1 USD = 0.88 EUR
Time zone
Local timeUTC+1
vs New York+6h
vs Los Angeles+9h
Electricity
Voltage230V / 50Hz
Plug types
GType G (three rectangular prongs, UK-style)
⚠ US adapter needed
Water & health
Tap water
Safe to drink
Tap water is generally safe to drink, but many prefer bottled water due to taste.
Emergency numbers
Frequently asked questions
No. There is no visa on arrival for Libyan passport holders. You must obtain a Schengen visa before traveling.
Standard processing is 15 calendar days, but it can take up to 45 days if additional documents or interviews are required. Apply at least 6–8 weeks before your trip.
The Schengen visa fee is €80 for adults. Children aged 6–12 pay €40, and children under 6 are free. Additional service fees may apply if using a visa application center.
Yes. You must attend an appointment to submit your application and provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo). This cannot be done by mail or online.
Yes. A Malta-issued Schengen visa allows you to travel to all 27 Schengen countries for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Malta must be your main destination (longest stay) or first point of entry.
Your visa application will be rejected. Renew your passport first, then apply for the visa.
Yes. You must provide proof of travel medical insurance covering at least €30,000 for medical emergencies and repatriation. It must be valid for the entire Schengen area.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on June 28, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.