Last updated on June 5th, 2024 at 09:54 am
A year-round sunny climate, rich history, and vibrant culture have long drawn tourists to Malta’s shores. Nowadays, the rise of remote work means longer stays on the island are becoming more frequent. The government has welcomed foreign workers with open arms by initiating the Nomad Residence Permit.
Malta now ranks 8th on the global Digital Nomad Index, a comprehensive ranking system that ranks countries based on their suitability for remote work. The combination of fast Wi-Fi, reasonable cost of living, and an abundance of cute cafes is sure to attract expats looking for a beautiful destination for work and travel.
So if you can picture yourself logging on from this gem of a spot in the Mediterranean Sea, our comprehensive guide will tell you all you need to know about getting a digital nomad visa for Malta.
What are the eligibility criteria for a digital nomad visa in Malta?
Malta’s Nomad Residence Permit has certain eligibility requirements, but the list isn’t too extensive. These are the essentials:
Proof of remote work
Applicants must fall into one of three categories: be employed or contracted by a company registered outside of Malta, run their own foreign business or offer freelance services to clients in a foreign country.
Minimum income requirement
All foreign nationals from outside the Schengen area who apply for a digital nomad visa in Malta must demonstrate a gross income of at least €42,000 per year or €3,500 per month.
The income threshold was raised in April 2024 to ensure applicants can sustain themselves while living in the country.
Health insurance
All applicants from outside the European Economic Area must show proof of health insurance for the duration of their stay in Malta.
Criminal record checks
All applicants must undergo a background verification check. As proof of a clean criminal record, a police conduct certificate must be submitted as part of your visa application.
Accommodation
The digital nomad visa application requires proof of accommodation in Malta, such as a rental or purchase agreement.
How to apply for the Malta digital nomad visa in 5 easy steps
We’ve broken down the application process into 5 simple steps to help you get your Nomad Residence Permit in no time.
Step 1: Collect the required documents
Have the following documents prepared for your visa application:
- A valid travel document with at least six months of validity remaining
- A letter of intent explaining your reasons for applying
- Proof of remote work (employment contract, business registration certificate, or proof of self-employment status)
- Monthly income evidence (payslips, bank statements, or contracts)
- A valid health insurance policy
- Police conduct certificate
- Proof of accommodation in Malta (rental agreement or property purchase)
Step 2: Complete the application form
The Nomad Residence Permit application form can be found on the government’s Residency Malta Agency website. Simply create an application and fill out all the necessary information, from your personal details to specifics about your work and stay in Malta.
Then it’s time to submit your completed application to the agency along with the required documents. This can be done either online or at the Identity Malta office. We recommend keeping copies of all documents submitted for your records in case further checks are required.
Step 3: Pay the application fee
Malta’s Nomad Residence Permit has an application fee of €300. Payment details and methods are available on the Identity Malta website, and it’s important to have proof of payment in case of any issues with your application. There will be an additional fee of €27.50 for issuance of the residency card.
Step 4: Wait for your application to be reviewed
The standard processing time for the Nomad Residence Permit is between 30 and 60 days. During this period, Identity Malta may request additional information. Respond as quickly as possible to avoid delays to your visa application.
Step 5: Enjoy your new life
Once approved, you will receive your Nomad Residence Permit, which allows you to reside in Malta for one year. The permit is renewable on an annual basis provided you continue to meet the criteria. As of 2024, the maximum stay period was increased to four years.
So, all that’s left to do now is pack up and make the move to this European paradise.
What are the benefits of the Malta Nomad Residence Permit?
Wanting to capitalize on the international boom in remote work post-COVID, the Maltese government introduced its Nomad Residence Permit in 2021. As an EU member state, Malta has long welcomed people from other European countries to live and work within its borders. This digital nomad visa extends the invitation to third-country nationals, who can now take advantage of all Malta has to offer, both in business and lifestyle.
Malta’s beautiful landscapes, historic sites, and gorgeous weather are appealing, but there are many more reasons to make the move there as a digital nomad. Firstly, the visa requirements are relatively simple. Non-EU nationals just need to demonstrate they are contracted to work remotely by a foreign company or run their own business abroad and meet certain financial criteria.
The fact that English is an official language in the country facilitates daily life and business activities, building a vibrant international community. The success of the Malta digital nomad visa program also means it has become a real hub for remote workers. This makes it the perfect place to seek out networking opportunities and social events. The high availability of coworking spaces offering top-quality telecommunications technologies helps foster a collaborative atmosphere.
Another significant benefit of the Nomad Residence Permit is the favorable tax rate. Digital nomads pay a flat 10% tax on any income from authorized work. This is a pretty low rate for Europe, allowing workers to save on taxes for the duration of their stay on the island.
FAQs
Is Malta a good place for digital nomads?
Absolutely. The booming international job market and community of young entrepreneurs make it a fantastic destination for working abroad. The capital city, Valletta, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a truly special place to call home.
How much do you need to earn to become a digital nomad in Malta?
The threshold to apply for the Nomad Residence Permit is €3,500 gross per month, or €42,000 per year.
Do digital nomads pay tax in Malta?
As of 2023, digital nomads in Malta are subject to a favorable 10% income tax rate.
Can I bring my family with me?
Yes. The Maltese digital nomad visa allows dependent family members of the main applicant to apply for a residence permit as well. This includes the applicant’s spouse, minor children, and economically dependent adult children (you will need to provide a marriage certificate and other supporting documentation).
What is the cost of living like in Malta?
This is a tough one to answer as it depends on your lifestyle. Generally, a family of four can expect to live quite comfortably on about €4000 per month. The average monthly expenses for a single person living alone are around €2,200.
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- The Digital Nomad Visa in Italy: What it is and How to Get One
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