My New Life in Malta

Many European related events are happening here lately. A few days ago, Malta joined the Schengen Zone. That is the name of an agreement that abolishes border controls between most (but not all) European countries. Several other countries joined in with this expansion of the Schengen area, which now covers the majority of the continent with a few notable exceptions such as the UK, Ireland, most of the former Yugoslavia, and a few others. Malta has opened its borders in stages, starting with just its seaport for now. The airport will follow in March.

This means that, already for ships and soon for flights, one will no longer need to go through passport control when leaving or entering Malta to or from one of the 27 other Schengen countries. Those who need visas can obtain one visa valid for all of them. This is something I have always been a big fan of and I have been following its expansion for years. How ironic, then, that it might have some unwanted consequences for me.

While before I could leave and enter Malta and keep extending legally the time allowed to stay here almost indefinitely, the Schengen regulations are much stricter. Non-EU citizens are only allowed to stay for 90 days in any six-month period in the Schengen area. After that, one has to leave and be gone for three months. As the clock has begun to tick, I am getting a bit nervous. The only way out of this will be to find an employer willing to hire me and sponsor my work permit (STILL trying to do that). I keep my fingers crossed with growing anxiety.

It is so unfair, as I came here to join my partner and have a life together in Malta. Many other countries would have granted me a partner/spouse visa by now, allowing me to establish roots and work. However, I remain optimistic and continue to look for options. No use being negative in life. Positivity brings more positivity.

In other Malta-European news, euro day is only three days and a few hours away. Major celebrations are planned around the Grand Harbour including a laser show. But after last year’s experience in Notte Bianca, where the streets of Valletta were so crowded one could hardly move, M and I are thinking of having a more quiet night to celebrate the new year.

I also heard in the news that the National Euro Changeover Committee instead of being disbanded will be turned into a new agency for consumers’ rights. I really do hope this initiative works, as customer service is one area where Malta really needs improvement.