Luxury, Culture, and Coastlines: Malta Visa for Indians Explained

By ankita bose Jul 29, 2025, 16:53 IST

Picture this: you’re sipping chilled Cisk beer on a sun-drenched rooftop in Valletta, waves crashing below, medieval towers behind you, and zero stress in your soul. Welcome to Malta, one of Europe’s best-kept secrets—and your next dreamy getaway.

Tucked right between Sicily and North Africa, Malta is an island nation that packs more beauty, culture, and adventure into its tiny footprint than countries ten times its size. And yes, if you’re an Indian passport holder, you will need a Malta visa for Indians , but we promise, it’s worth every form and photo.

Let’s dive into this Mediterranean fantasy of sun, sea, and Schengen stamps.

Why Malta? Because It’s Small, Stunning, and Surreal

If Europe had a secret VIP list, Malta would be the under-the-radar gem that the cool travelers whisper about.

Here’s what makes Malta seriously special:

  • Ancient cities straight out of “Game of Thrones” (literally)
     
  • Blue lagoons that look like Photoshop turned real
     
  • Warm, friendly locals who speak English (and sometimes even Hindi!)
     
  • Mediterranean food that’s basically Italian cuisine with a tan
     
  • Dive sites, cathedrals, cliff hikes, and more beaches than your Google Maps can handle
     

And the best part? You can explore the entire country in a matter of days without feeling rushed. Tiny island = big convenience.

Valletta: The Pint-Sized Capital That Packs a Punch

Valletta isn’t just Malta’s capital—it’s an open-air museum. No really, UNESCO said so.

Expect:

  • Baroque palaces that make you feel like royalty
     
  • Cobbled streets with pops of color and quirky doors
     
  • St. John’s Co-Cathedral with golden interiors that make your jaw drop
     
  • Water taxis that feel like gondolas, minus the crowds and the high prices
     

You can explore Valletta on foot in a day and still discover something new at every corner. Pro tip: sunset views from the Upper Barrakka Gardens are non-negotiable.

Mdina: The Silent City That Speaks to Your Soul

Imagine a medieval fortress town with zero traffic, whisper-quiet streets, and golden walls that glow at dusk.

That’s Mdina, the former capital and current daydream. Bonus: it’s where some major “Game of Thrones” scenes were shot (fans, rejoice!).

Walk its narrow alleys, stop for cake at a local café, and breathe in a kind of peace you didn’t know existed.

Comino & the Blue Lagoon: Water You Can Walk On

If you’ve ever wanted to float in clear, turquoise water that looks fake but isn’t—head to Comino Island’s Blue Lagoon.

Just a short ferry ride from the main island, Comino offers:

  • Snorkeling that feels like swimming inside an aquarium
     
  • Photo ops that’ll make your friends question reality
     
  • Barefoot, no-rush island vibes
     

Bring sunscreen, a hat, and your best swimwear. This is beach bliss, Mediterranean style.

Gozo: Malta’s Chill Cousin

If Malta’s main island is where the action is, Gozo is where the soul rests.

This laid-back island is perfect for:

  • Quiet hikes along dramatic cliffs
     
  • Visiting the Ggantija Temples (older than the Pyramids, FYI)
     
  • Sampling local cheese and wines
     
  • Stargazing without light pollution

You can do Gozo as a day trip—or stay overnight if you want to unplug.

Maltese Food: Flavors With a Passport

Maltese cuisine is like a tasty mixtape of Mediterranean influences—Italian, Arabic, Spanish, British… all jamming together in harmony.

Must-try dishes:

  • Pastizzi: Flaky pastry pockets filled with ricotta or peas. Addictive alert!
     
  • Fenek (rabbit stew): Malta’s national dish. Very traditional, very hearty.
     
  • Ħobż biż-żejt: Maltese-style sandwich with tuna, olives, capers, and tomato paste. Street food perfection.
     
  • Imqaret: Date-filled pastries, best enjoyed warm.

And yes, vegetarians and vegans—Malta’s food scene has evolved. Expect plant-based options in most restaurants and specialty cafés in Valletta and Sliema.

What Language? What Currency?

Good news, fellow Indians:

  • Languages: English is an official language! (Along with Maltese, which sounds like Arabic and Italian had a baby.)
     
  • Currency: Euro (€). So keep those Schengen coins from your France trip.

Most locals are incredibly friendly and used to tourists, so don’t be surprised if you hear a cheerful “Namaste” while shopping in a Valletta souvenir store.

Malta Visa for Indians: The Essentials

Okay, here’s the real talk. Indian citizens need a visa to visit Malta, and it falls under the Schengen visa category.

Here’s what’s usually required:

  • A valid Indian passport (with at least 6 months validity)
     
  • Completed visa application form
     
  • Passport-sized photos (per Schengen photo guidelines)
     
  • Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or invitation letter)
     
  • Travel itinerary or cover letter
     
  • Round-trip flight bookings
     
  • Travel insurance covering your trip duration
     
  • Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements, ITRs, etc.)
     

You’ll need to apply via the Malta Embassy or VFS center in your region. Some Indian cities process Malta visas through the Italian embassy—so double-check where yours falls.

Processing Time?

Expect 10–15 working days once documents are submitted. But apply at least 3–4 weeks in advance just to be safe—especially if you're traveling during summer or around Christmas.

Already Have a Schengen Visa?

Lucky you! If your multiple-entry Schengen visa (from France, Germany, etc.) is valid, you can use it to enter Malta too.

When Should Indians Visit Malta?

Malta is warm almost all year. But depending on your vibe, here’s what to expect:

  • Spring (Mar–May): Ideal weather, wildflowers, fewer tourists
     
  • Summer (Jun–Aug): Beach season, festivals, and also lots of crowds
     
  • Autumn (Sep–Nov): Pleasant temps and cheaper stays
     
  • Winter (Dec–Feb): Mildly chilly, fewer tourists, great deals

Skip August if you hate sweating and standing in lines. October is a sweet spot—perfect weather without the chaos.

Desi Tips for Traveling in Malta

  • Phone connectivity: Get a local SIM at the airport or city shops. Vodafone Malta has decent coverage.
     
  • Public transport: Buses cover most of the island. Affordable and reliable.
     
  • Driving: They drive on the left—bonus for Indians!
     
  • Outlets: UK-style plug (Type G). Carry an adapter if you’re bringing electronics.
     
  • Food for picky eaters: Indian restaurants exist in Valletta and St. Julian’s. Or, cook in your Airbnb using ingredients from local grocery stores.

And yes, you can find masala chai if you ask nicely at the right café.

Malta: Small Country, Big Memories

Let’s be honest—Malta isn’t the most obvious choice for Indian travelers heading to Europe. But that’s exactly what makes it magical. It’s offbeat, uncrowded, and unexpectedly rich in history, nature, food, and experiences.

You’ll leave with:

  • A million golden-hued photos
     
  • Unexpected friendships with Maltese locals
     
  • A tan you didn’t know you wanted
     
  • And possibly an obsession with pastizzi
     

All you need to do is check that passport, get your Malta visa for Indians, and pack your sunnies.

Let OneVasco make the visa process hassle-free—so you can focus on building your travel playlist and picking your perfect beach hat.