Family Reunification in Malta

The process of family reunification in Malta enables non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens to join their family members residing in Malta. The pathway is subject to various conditions and is primarily guided by the Family Reunification Regulations and policies set forth by the Maltese government. This article elucidates the process, eligibility criteria, and the necessary steps to apply for a Family Reunification Visa in Malta, aiding individuals in navigating the intricacies of family reunification.

Eligibility Criteria:

1. Applicant’s Status:
   1. All non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens must apply for family reunification before joining a family member residing in Malta​¹​.
   1. The applicant can be the spouse (over 21 years old), minor child (biological or adopted), or adult child (biological or adopted and financially dependent) of a person living in Malta​¹​.
2. Sponsor’s Status:
   1. The sponsor must be legally residing in Malta with a residence permit.
   1. Applications for family reunification can be made after the sponsor has resided in Malta for at least 12 months​²​.
3. Family Members Definition:
   1. The policy defines family members as the spouse, minor children (either biological or adopted), and unmarried adult family members dependent on the family’s household, either financially or physically​²​.

Application Process:

1. Documentation:
   1. Required documents include the application form Form C/22 (Non-EU), a cover letter explaining the sponsor’s residence in Malta for the last two years, and other supporting documents​³​.
2. Submission:
   1. The sponsor, already residing in Malta, must email a request to determine eligibility for such a residence permit to the Identity Malta Agency.
   1. All relevant documentation should be attached to this email.
   1. The request must be made before the family members are physically present in Malta, except for minor children born in Malta​²​.
3. Approval Timeline:
   1. The decision regarding the application will be communicated within 60 days after submission​⁴​.

Employment Access: Family members granted a residence permit under these guidelines do not automatically obtain the right to work in Malta. To seek employment, they must change the purpose of their stay by applying for a single permit to the Expatriates Unit​²​.

Conclusion: The family reunification process in Malta is a structured pathway that necessitates meticulous adherence to the outlined eligibility and application procedures. By ensuring all criteria are met and accurately following the application process, applicants can work towards achieving family reunification in Malta.