Exchange in Malta 2026: how to calculate the financial proof for a student visa?
Financial proof is one of the points that most raise doubts and, frequently, refusals in student visa processes for Malta. As of 2026, Identità Malta formalized a calculation criterion that directly impacts the preparation of documentation. Knowing how to apply this rule correctly is what separates an approved process from an avoidable denial.
In this article, you will understand how the new calculation works, what daily amount to use according to the type of accommodation chosen, and which bank documents need to be in order before booking with the VFS. If you're still researching your first steps, check out the guide on How to do an exchange in Malta before continuing.
What changed in the financial requirements for the Malta visa in 2026?
Identità Malta has formally adopted a calculation based on the percentage of the national minimum wage as a reference for financial proof. The student must demonstrate that they have funds equivalent to, at a minimum, 75% of the Maltese national minimum wage per month of study.
To give objectivity to the process, Identità Malta defined two daily values as an evaluation parameter:
• €28 per day for students who present their own rental agreement or hotel reservation confirmation
• €18 per day for students staying in a homestay or in accommodation provided by the school during their entire stay
This means that the choice of housing type directly influences the amount that needs to be available on the bank statement. It is a detail that changes the financial planning of the process.
How to make the correct calculation of the amount to be proven?
The calculation is straightforward. Multiply the daily amount corresponding to your type of accommodation by the number of course days. Don't use generic months: Identità Malta assesses the exact period specified in the enrollment contract.
Practical example:
For a course of 90 days in homestay: 90 x €18 = €1,620 available on account.
For a course of 90 days with own rental or hotel: 90 x €28 = €2,520 available on account.
The difference is considerable. The choice of accommodation is not only a matter of comfort, it has a direct impact on what the consulate expects to see in the statement. Who is planning the exchange in advance there is more room to organize this point without pressure.
When does the amount of €18 per day apply?
The €18 criterion is valid when the student stays for the entire stay at:
• Homestay (host family with valid MTA license)
• Accommodation provided by the language school itself
Attention to detail: The €18 criterion only applies if the accommodation is of the same type for the entire period. If the student changes modality during the course, the parameter of €28 prevails.
When is the amount of €28 per day required?
The amount of €28 applies when the student presents:
• Own rental agreement signed by both parties
• Hotel or platform reservation confirmation (Airbnb, Booking.com etc.)
In this case, the accommodation document must indicate the student's name, address and minimum duration of 14 nights from arrival in Malta.
What bank documents are accepted to prove funds?
Financial proof isn't just a number in the account. Identità Malta reviews the complete set of banking documentation. Here's what's needed:
• Bank letter or certificate Informing the available balance
• Bank statement for the last 3 months
• Documents with a maximum period of 30 days before the appointment date at the VFS
• Extract in euros or accompanied by conversion via XE.com
• The document must include the holder's identification number
In addition, it is required:
• Photo or photocopy of the international debit card (VISA or MasterCard), front and back
• The card must be from the same bank that issued the statement
Two common mistakes that lead to refusal:
• High deposits made in the days immediately before the statement was issued. Identità Malta classifies this as “new money” and may question the authenticity of the funds.
• Documents without letterhead or without complete bank information are not accepted as valid proof.
If the student does not have their own funds, it is possible to use a Sponsorship letter, with the sponsor's bank statement from the last 3 months, a detailed letter of financial responsibility and a copy of the identity document. To understand what can happen when documentation is flawed, see the article on What happens if a student visa is denied.
Which C or D visa corresponds to your period of study?
The length of the course in Malta determines the type of visa and, consequently, the application process:
• Up to 12 weeks: short-term visa (C-Visa or Schengen). Learn more about when this type of visa is required in the article do you need a visa to study in Malta for 6 months?
• 15 weeks or more: long-term visa (D-Visa), requested via VFS Global before traveling. The financial proof follows the same calculation criteria described in this article, applied to the total number of course days.
For courses of 15 weeks or more, the process is more robust. Check out the Tips for applying for a student visa abroad so as not to leave any step out.
How far in advance do you need to start the process?
The Malta visa requires planning. Minimum deadlines are mandatory and there are no exceptions:
• The request must be submitted at least 9 weeks earlier From the start date of the course
• The average processing time after scheduling is 8 to 10 weeks (which may be higher in periods of high demand)
• Scheduling on the VFS can be done with up to 6 months in advance
• Bank documents must be at most 30 days of issue before the appointment date
Planning at least 4 to 5 months in advance is the safest route. This is especially important for those who are organizing their stay with larger plans, such as those who want to work during the period in Malta or combine the course with other experiences in Europe.
FAQ: frequently asked questions about financial proof for a Malta visa
1. Can I use a joint account statement to prove funds?
Yes, as long as the applicant's name is on the document. The statement must include the holder's identification number and must be within 30 days before the appointment.
2. What is considered “new money” by Identità Malta?
These are high deposits made in the days immediately prior to the issuance of the statement. These movements raise suspicion that the balance is unusual and may lead to a visa being refused.
3. If I change from homestay to rental during the course, what amount do I use in the calculation?
The €18 criterion only applies to those staying in a homestay or school accommodation for the entire stay. Any change of modality requires the use of the parameter of €28 per day.
4. Is an investment account accepted as proof?
In general, no. Identità Malta requests a checking or savings account statement with an official letter from the bank. Investment accounts are only accepted if the bank issues a formal document with available balance and identification of the holder.
5. What changes in the proof for children under 18?
For minors, all financial documentation may belong to the legal guardian. Also required are: original, legalized and translated birth certificate, letter of consent from both parents, and a copy of the passports of those responsible.
Be Easy
At Be Easy, we follow each step of the visa process with attention to the details that make the difference between approval and refusal. If you're thinking of studying English in Malta or exploring other European destinations, such as a sports exchange abroad, our team is ready to guide you safely and clearly at every stage of the process. Get in touch with us and discover how we simplified that process for you.
