Since Malta joined the European Union in 2004, students coming to study here from countries of the European Union can come and go freely without needing a visa. Malta has also joined the Schengen zone in 2008. The name Schengen originates from a small town in Luxembourg. In March 1995, seven European Union countries signed a treaty to end internal border checkpoints and controls. More countries have joined the treaty over the past years. At present, there are 25 Schengen countries, all in Europe.  

 

The 25 Schengen countries are: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain Sweden, and Switzerland. Further information regarding Schengen visas can be obtained by contacting a consulate of any of the above countries. Students travelling to Malta from non-Shengen countries need to apply for a temporary visa at the Maltese Embassy or Consulate of their respective countries.