Border Management and Visa Instrument

The scope of Malta’s Border Management and Visa Instrument (BMVI) for the 2021-2027 Programming Period is that of contributing towards strengthening border surveillance at external borders whilst also safeguarding the free movement of persons within the Union, through effective control mechanisms supporting a common visa policy. Investments under this Programme will aim to facilitate communication of sensitive data across EU channels as well as improve efficiency and deployment of resources for immediate action in emergency situations. This in turn contributes to a high level of internal security whilst respecting EU laws and international obligations.

The Programme’s Strategic Objective shall contribute towards the policy objective of the Fund which aims to ensure a strong and effective European integrated border management at the external borders. With a Total budget of € 47.8 million and an EU Share of € 37.8 million, this Instrument’s Specific Objectives include actions identified in the Programme which will contribute towards achieving both specific objectives, taking into account, lessons learnt, development needs, stakeholder consultation and national policies, amongst others. The 2 objectives are further explained below:

• Specific Objective 1: Supporting effective European integrated border management by enhancing border control management capabilities and operations, improving operational surveillance systems, equipment and infrastructure, strengthening capacity building measures to border control officers, improving checks at border control points and supporting the maintenance of large-scale IT systems.
• Specific Objective 2: Supporting the common visa policy by investing in capacity building measures in line with the Schengen acquis, improving consular cooperation and facilitating the digital transition of visa applications.

The BMVI’s activities across the EU shall focus primarily on areas such as cross-border infrastructure, operating equipment, training, deployment of immigration liaison officers, pilot studies and exchange of best practices which may be expanded by the European Commission to address unforeseen or new circumstances. These activities shall complement national, regional and local measures and ultimately benefit the EU.

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