In a significant development for travelers in the Maldives, the High Commission of Malta in India, along with VFS Global, inaugurated the Malta Visa Application Centre in Malé on November 16, 2023. This move aims to enhance the convenience of Malta visa applicants in the Maldives and streamline the application process.
Applicants in the Maldives can now visit the newly opened centre at H. Beach Tower, First Floor, Boduthakurufaanu Magu, to submit applications for all Malta visa categories. This marks a notable shift from the previous practice, where applicants had to undertake the journey to New Delhi, India, for their visa submissions.
The inauguration ceremony, led by H.E. Mr. Reuben Gauci, Malta High Commissioner to India, and Mr. Naveen Nara, Senior General Manager – Schengen Operations (New Delhi), VFS Global, symbolizes a step toward offering a more accessible and efficient visa application process for Maldivian travelers.
The establishment of the new Malta Visa Application Centre is expected to save time and costs for applicants who, until now, had to fly to New Delhi to initiate their Malta visa application. With the introduction of this local center, applicants can either schedule a prior appointment through the VFS Global website or walk in with the necessary documents as per the checklist.
The centre, equipped with modern amenities and services, aims to provide applicants with a comfortable and relaxed visa application submission experience. H.E. Mr. Reuben Gauci emphasized the significance of this development, stating that it aligns with the strategy to further develop the tourism sector in Malta.
Mr. Prabuddha Sen, Chief Operating Officer – South Asia, VFS Global, expressed excitement about expanding their partnership with Malta, bringing visa services to the Maldives. VFS Global has been a trusted partner for the Government of the Republic of Malta since 2008, and this new center in Malé adds to its extensive network of 101 visa application centers across 38 countries.
It's important to note that VFS Global's role in the visa application process is limited to front-end administrative tasks, including collecting application forms and required documentation. The decision-making process of granting or refusing a visa remains within the purview of the relevant authorities.
For further details and to initiate the visa application process, applicants can visit https://visa.vfsglobal.com/mdv/en/mlt. This initiative is expected to simplify the visa application journey and meet the growing demand for travel to Malta, providing Maldivian travelers with a more accessible route to their desired destination.