Steps to Obtain the Malta Sports Visa (D-Visa) 2025-2026

Many young athletes, especially from Morocco and other countries outside the European Union, dream of getting the opportunity to test their skills in European clubs. The Malta Long Stay Visa (D-Visa), known as the “Sports Trial,” is one of the easiest legal pathways to achieve this dream. This visa offers a real opportunity for athletic talents to enter the Schengen area, prove their abilities to Maltese clubs, and potentially sign a permanent professional contract.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about this unique opportunity, from its conditions and benefits to the required documents and steps to become a professional player in Malta.

What is Malta’s Sports Trial Visa?

It is a long-term national visa (D-Visa) granted by Maltese authorities to athletes from outside the European Union who have received an official invitation from a registered sports club in Malta to participate in performance trials. Its primary purpose is to enable the club to evaluate the athlete’s level in practice before offering them a permanent employment contract.

Key Benefits and Conditions of the Visa

To make the most of this opportunity, you must understand its benefits and comply with its strict conditions:

• Unique opportunity to prove talent: The visa gives you sufficient time to fully showcase your skills to the club’s technical staff.
• Fixed duration, non-renewable: The visa is valid for only 100 days and cannot be renewed. Athletes must make the best use of this period.
• Exclusive sporting activity: Use of the visa is limited to sporting activities specified in the club’s invitation. Any other paid work is strictly prohibited.
• Cannot change visa type: During the 100-day period, athletes cannot apply for any other type of visa within Malta.

Required Documents List for D Sports Visa Application

To ensure your application is accepted, you must prepare a complete file containing the following documents:

• D-Visa application form: Completed fully and correctly.
• Valid passport: Must have at least 8 months validity from the application date.
• Recent personal photograph: Color passport-size photo with white background.
• Official invitation letter: Issued by the registered Maltese sports club, detailing the trial period and its purpose.
• Club registration proof: Official document confirming the club is certified and registered with Maltese authorities.
• Proof of financial capacity: Bank statement or any proof showing your ability to cover living costs during your stay.
• Valid health insurance: Must cover the entire Schengen area for the duration of your stay (100 days).
• Club commitment document: Official document confirming that a successful trial may lead to signing a full employment contract with the athlete.

From Trial to Professionalism: Converting to Permanent Work Permit (Single Permit)

If the trial period is successful and the club is impressed with your level, the most important step toward professionalism begins.

1. Submit work permit application: It is the Maltese club’s responsibility to submit an application for a permanent work permit (Single Permit) to retain you as a professional player.
2. Application deadline: This application must be submitted at least 20 days before your D-visa expires.
3. Sports authority approval: The application requires prior approval from the competent sports authority in Malta.

What Happens in Case of Failure or Violation of Conditions?

Transparency and compliance are key to success. If you fail the trials or violate visa laws, the consequences are clear:

• Immediate departure: Athletes must leave Malta and the Schengen area before the visa expires.
• Strict penalties: Overstaying or engaging in unauthorized work may expose you to financial fines and a ban from entering the Schengen area in the future.

An Unmissable Opportunity for Moroccan Athletic Talents

The Malta Sports Trial Visa represents a genuine golden opportunity for Moroccan athletes and other ambitious talents seeking to showcase their abilities on the European stage. It’s not just a visa, but a legal and organized bridge that can turn the dream of professionalism into tangible reality. The key lies in proper preparation of required documents and full compliance with conditions and laws to maximize this precious opportunity.

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