In recent years, Malta has gradually become a high quality of life in Europe,immigrantsOne of the popular destinations with relatively friendly thresholds. Especially for Chinese who have already obtained residence or status, family reunification has become theImmigration to MaltaThe next key decision for the Maltese government. 2025 onwards, the Maltese government has updated some of theFamily reunification residence policy, streamlining the process, shortening the approval time, and relaxing the requirements for parental applications. In this article, we will look at theKey points of the policy update,Requirements for application,Process Detailsuntil (a time)caveatWe provide you with a detailed explanation to help your family reunite successfully in Malta.

I. Why choose family reunification in Malta?

Malta is not onlyMembership of the European Union Schengen StatesWith quality education, a universal health care system, a livable climate, and English as an official language, it is even more important forFamily relationships are highly valued. Whether it is to accompany a student, to retire, or to unify a family in planning for European status, the family reunification policy provides a stable and secure living environment for foreigners residing in Malta.

II. New changes in Malta's family reunification policy in 2025

Identity Malta has announced the latest family reunification policy optimization points in early 2025:

1. Parental application threshold lowered: Proof of dependency is more flexible and does not require high financial guarantees.

2. Shorter approval time for spouses and children: The standard application process has been shortened to 60 days from the previous 90 days.

3. Allowed to submit renewal documents within the country: Reunited families do not have to leave the country to wait for the results of the visa renewal.

4. Accelerated priority lanes for children under 18: If the principal applicant holds a permanent residence or work visa, he/she may bring his/her minor children directly into the country.

These policy changes are particularly beneficial to the Chinese, especially applicants planning to relocate their entire family or settle for retirement.

III. Objects of application and types of residence

Maltese family reunification applies to the following immediate family members:

• Legal spouse(including same-sex couples, subject to proof of a legally recognized relationship)

• Unmarried children under 18 years of age

• Economically dependent parents(The principal applicant is required to provide proof of his/her financial support)

After applying for reunification, family members will receiveLive, study, workof residence permits.

IV. General overview of the application requirements

The main applicant needs to fulfill the following basic conditions:

V. How do spouses, children and parents apply respectively?

1. Spouse reunification process

• Submission of marriage certificate (or notarization of cohabitation)

• Main applicant's passport and proof of residence

  

• Photographs of the parties, joint financial records (proof of real marriage)

• Approval length: about 45-60 days

✅ The spouse receives a residence card of the same type as the main applicant, usually for one year, which is renewable.

2. Child reunification process

• Birth certificate, notarization of paternity

• If the couple is not traveling together, a letter of consent from the other spouse is required.

• must beUnmarried children under 18 years of age

• Direct enrollment in public or international schools

✅ The child's residence is renewed at the same time as that of the parents and he or she has access to public education.

3. Parent reunification process (new highlights of Policy 2025)

• Submit a birth certificate or family register to prove immediate family relationship

  

• Provide a Statement of Financial Dependency that proves they are primarily dependent on you for their livelihood

• Medical insurance or health certificate

🆕 From 2025 onwards, no high fixed deposits are required, only bank flows and sources of income are required as a guarantee.

VI. Common misconceptions and recommendations

Myth 1: Thinking you can just bring your family with you when you get a work visa.
➡️ suggests that it is more prudent to obtain a valid residence card before starting the reunification application.

Myth 2: Direct transfer to reunification status after parents come to visit relatives
➡️ Suggestion: It is recommended to apply for a reunification visa in China before entering the country to reduce the risk of being refused.

Myth 3: No translation of documents required
➡️ Recommendation: All non-English/Maltese materials must be authorized byEnglish translation + notarized certificationOtherwise, the piece will be returned.

VII. Can family members work or study after reunification?

The answer is yes. A spouse may, after being granted residenceFree employment or self-employment(b) The child mayFree access to public schoolsBilingual international schools are also available. Parents have access to basic health care, although they usually do not work.

Family members can apply together if the reunification has been completed for 5 yearsLong-term residence or EU permanent residence cardThe

VIII. Conclusion: making "reunification" easy and secure

For many people, immigration is not a one-person decision, but a family decision.Malta ImmigrationThe liberalization of the family reunification policy in 2025 reflects its respect for family values and friendliness towards international residents. Whether you are already living in Malta or ready to embark on an EU migration path, planning for family reunification is a long and warm start.