The Malta Digital Nomad Residence Permit allows remote workers to live and work in a beautiful Mediterranean country for up to one year. This guide covers everything you need to know about eligibility, application, and life in Malta.
📋 Key Takeaways
- Permit valid for one year, renewable up to four years total
- Minimum monthly income requirement: €3,500 before taxes
- Processing time: up to 30 days after document submission
- Family members can join under certain conditions
- Generally lower living costs than many European countries
Understanding the Nomad Residence Permit
Eligibility Criteria
- At least 18 years old
- Work remotely using telecommunications
- Third-country national (not from EU/EEA or Switzerland)
- If employed: work contract with a foreign employer
- If self-employed: conduct business with a company registered outside Malta
- Freelancers: contracts with clients outside Malta
Key Benefits
- Live in a beautiful Mediterranean country
- One-year renewable residency
- Access to world-class healthcare and amenities
Limitations
- Valid for one year, renewable maximum four years total
- Must earn minimum €3,500 monthly
- Non-refundable €300 application fee per applicant
Application Process
Online Application Submission
- Visit the Residency Malta Agency portal
- Fill out the application form
- Attach all required documents in PDF format
Required Documentation
- Copy of passport (all pages)
- Cover letter explaining your move to Malta
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Recent bank statements (last 3 months)
- Police certificate showing no criminal record
- Valid health insurance for Malta and EU countries
- Proof of accommodation in Malta
Processing Timeline
| Step | Duration |
|---|---|
| Application Submission | Immediate |
| Payment Confirmation | 1-2 days |
| Application Processing | Up to 60 days |
| Notification of Approval | 3-4 weeks after |
Note: After receiving your approval, you must provide proof of accommodation and health insurance within 30 days.
Financial Requirements & Tax Implications
Minimum Income
To qualify, applicants must earn a minimum monthly income of €3,500 before taxes. This ensures digital nomads can support themselves while living in Malta.
Application Fees
Non-refundable fee of €300 for each applicant and their family members, applicable for both initial application and renewals.
Tax Considerations
| Time Period | Tax Rate |
|---|---|
| First 12 months | Exempt |
| After 12 months | 10% |
Living in Malta
Cost of Living Overview
| Expense Type | Estimated Cost (€) |
|---|---|
| Rent (1 Bedroom in City) | 700 – 1,234 |
| Groceries | 200 – 300 |
| Utilities | 60 – 170 |
| Transportation | 50 – 100 |
Best Places to Live
- Valletta: Perfect for history and culture enthusiasts
- Sliema: Known for modern vibe and shopping
- St. Julian's: Ideal for nightlife and social activities
- Mdina: Quieter, ancient city with beautiful architecture
- Marsaxlokk: Charming fishing village with stunning views
Renewing Your Permit
Eligibility for Renewal
You must still meet the original eligibility criteria:
- Be a remote worker with a valid contract
- Earn minimum €3,500 monthly
- Have a clean background check
Renewal Process
- Submit application online through the Residency Malta portal
- Attach all required documents including proof of income and accommodation
- Pay the non-refundable €300 application fee
Bringing Family Members
Dependents can include spouses, children, and other family members who rely on the main applicant:
- Main applicant must hold a valid Digital Nomad Residence Permit
- Dependents must be legally recognized as part of the family unit
- Each dependent must meet specific eligibility criteria
Post-Arrival Requirements
Biometric Data Collection
After arrival, visit a local office to provide:
- Fingerprints
- Photographs
- Signature
Obtaining Your Residence Card
You'll receive an email notification about when to pick up your residence card, typically 3-4 weeks after arrival. Bring your passport and any required documents.
Ready to Apply?
Check your eligibility and get started on your Malta journey.
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