Malta•EuropeFamily Reunification Permit - Spouse
At a Glance
Varies
EUR €150
Varies (Renewable annually with sponsor's continued residence)
Renewable
Renewal
Renewable
Family
Dependents allowed
PR Pathway
Yes
Sponsor
No job offer needed
Work
Remote not required
Overview
Residence permit for the spouse of a third-country national legally residing in Malta for at least one year, requiring the sponsor to be at least 21 and in a monogamous marriage.
The Family Reunification Permit for a spouse is designed to allow third-country nationals legally residing in Malta to bring their legally married partners to live with them. This permit is rooted in the principle of maintaining family unity, ensuring that the sponsor can provide a stable environment for their spouse. To qualify, the sponsor must prove they have been a legal resident for at least one year and possess the financial means to support their partner without relying on the Maltese social assistance system. The process is strictly regulated to ensure that the marriage is genuine and that the couple has adequate housing that meets national health and safety standards.
This visa is intended for the spouses of non-EU nationals who are already established in Malta. It is not a path for those seeking to relocate independently but rather a dependent status tied to the sponsor's residence permit. Applicants must be prepared to provide extensive documentation, including legalised marriage certificates and proof of the sponsor's income. Once approved, the spouse is granted a residence permit that generally aligns with the duration and conditions of the sponsor's own permit, allowing them to reside and, depending on the specific permit type, access the labor market in Malta.
Requirements
PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS
Sponsor must hold a valid residence permit in Malta for at least one year.
Sponsor must have reasonable prospects of obtaining permanent residence.
Sponsor must demonstrate stable and regular financial resources equivalent to at least the average wage in Malta, plus an additional 20% for each family member.
Sponsor must provide proof of adequate accommodation that meets general health and safety standards for the family size.
The marriage must be monogamous and the spouse must be at least 21 years of age.
The family member must be residing outside of Malta at the time of application.
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Valid passport
Family relationship documents
Passport photographs
Health insurance
Police conduct certificate
Medical certificates
Residence permit copy (sponsor)
Financial documentation (sponsor)
Proof of accommodation (sponsor)
Declaration of support (sponsor)
Application Process
Verify sponsor qualification
Confirm sponsor is legally residing in Malta with valid residence permit for 12+ months
Establish family relationship
Provide proof of marriage, birth certificate, or legal dependency
Verify sponsor's resources
Demonstrate stable and regular resources sufficient to support family
Secure accommodation
Obtain adequate housing for family in Malta
Prepare documents
Gather passports, family documents, financial proof, accommodation proof
Submit application
Apply through Identità Expatriates Unit
Await decision
Processing takes up to 8 weeks
Application Forms
| Family Reunification Application | — |
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