Process for Sponsoring a Spouse Visa for Same-Sex Partners in Malta
Introduction
Malta is a progressive country that has legalized same-sex marriage and offers equal rights to same-sex couples, including the ability to sponsor their spouses for a residence visa. This article provides a detailed guide to the process of sponsoring a spouse visa for same-sex partners in Malta.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible to sponsor a spouse for a residence visa, the following requirements must be met:
- Relationship: You must be legally married to your same-sex partner and provide proof of your marriage certificate.
- Residency: You must be a Maltese citizen, a permanent resident of Malta, or an EU/EEA national residing legally in Malta.
- Accommodation: You must have suitable accommodation in Malta that is large enough to accommodate both you and your spouse.
- Financial means: You must have sufficient financial means to support yourself and your spouse during their stay in Malta.
Steps Involved
The process of sponsoring a spouse visa for a same-sex partner involves the following steps:
1. Gather Supporting Documents
Collect the following documents:
- Marriage certificate
- Passports and birth certificates of both spouses
- Proof of residency (e.g., utility bills, rental agreement)
- Evidence of financial means (e.g., bank statements, employment contract)
2. Submit Application
Submit the application form and supporting documents to Identity Malta (formerly known as the Citizenship and Expatriates Department). The application can be submitted online or by post.
3. Biometric Appointment
Once the application is received, your spouse will be required to attend a biometric appointment at an Identity Malta office.
4. Interview
In some cases, an interview may be requested to verify the authenticity of the relationship and the financial means of the sponsor.
5. Decision
Identity Malta will review the application and supporting documents. If the application is approved, a residence visa will be issued to your spouse.
6. Collection of Residence Card
Your spouse will need to collect their residence card from the Identity Malta office.
Duration of Visa
The initial residence visa is typically valid for one year and can be renewed annually as long as the eligibility requirements continue to be met. After five years of continuous residence, your spouse may be eligible to apply for permanent residency.
Fees
There is a non-refundable application fee for sponsoring a spouse visa. The fee varies depending on the nationality of your spouse.
Additional Information
- Same-sex partners from outside the EU/EEA: If your spouse is not from an EU/EEA country, they may need to apply for a Schengen visa before entering Malta.
- Dependent children: If you have dependent children, you can include them in the application for a residence visa.
- Same-sex marriage outside Malta: If you were married outside of Malta, you will need to have your marriage recognized in Malta before sponsoring your spouse for a residence visa.
Conclusion
Sponsoring a spouse visa for a same-sex partner in Malta is a relatively straightforward process. By following the steps outlined in this article and providing the necessary supporting documents, you can ensure a smooth and successful application for your loved one to join you in Malta.