The increased prevalence of remote working due to the Covid-19 pandemic means individuals are now, more than ever, able to work from anywhere in the world. The Nomad Residence Permit allows third country nationals who can prove they are working remotely from Malta, to legally reside in Malta. This applies when applicants are working for entities or customers to whom they are providing services for, who are not based in Malta.  

Nomad residence permits are valid for one year and can be renewed on an annual basis, provided that the relevant eligibility criteria continue to be met. Spouses and children may also apply for residence as dependants of the main applicant.  

Benefits 

• European country with year-round great weather 
• Freedom to travel and stay in the Schengen zone (90 out of any 180 days) 
• Aside from Maltese, English is the official language 
• Strong internet connection speeds & great coverage 
• No physical stay requirements 
• Low-cost programme 

Applicants must be from a non-EU country, and cannot be EU, EEA or Swiss. Nationals of Afghanistan, North Korea, Iran, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Yemen, Venezuela, the Russian Federation and Belarus are currently ineligible.  

The programme is not available to refugees or persons granted subsidiary protection in Malta or any other EU, EAA or Swiss nation. It also does not apply to persons with the right to freedom of movement in the EU.  

Applicants must have a monthly gross income of at least €2,700 to apply. This threshold is increased for applicants applying with additional dependents and family members – approximately 20% per dependent.  

Applicants must also meet one of the following criteria to apply: 

• Is a remote worker who has a contract of work for an employer registered in a foreign country  
• Is self-employed and conducts business activities for a company registered in a foreign country and of which the applicant is a partner or shareholder 

• Conducts freelance or consulting services on behalf of, mostly, establishments in a foreign country and whom the applicant has contracts with 

Applicants should also: 

• Have valid travel documentation 
• Have a travel insurance policy which adequately covers all risks in Malta  
• Be able to provide proof of accommodation, being either rental or purchase of property. This can be temporary accommodation, however proof of permanent accommodation will be required following successful application. 

Background checks will need to be completed and applicants must adhere to standard procedures relating to visas or other residency permits.  

Applicants are also expected to pay taxes in their home country, and as part of the application process they will need to be able prove they are currently paying appropriate taxes. 

Subject to the approval of a residency permit, the main applicant’s family and dependents may also be entitled to reside in Malta. The main applicant may apply for residency for dependents during the initial application process, or as a separate application once residency has been granted. Dependents include a spouse, children under 18 or adult children who are financially supported by the main applicant. The successful issuance of a residence permit for additional family members does not automatically grant them the right to work in Malta.  

€300 per main applicant and additional family member payable to Residency Malta Agency. For third country nationals who require a visa to enter Malta, an additional €300 per applicant for premium processing of the visa payable to Identity Malta Agency. 

Applications should be processed within 30 days of submission. 

As accredited agents for Maltese citizenship and as authorised registered mandatory for Malta residency programmes, Acumum has extensive expertise in the field. 

Acumum is well placed to assess an applicant’s suitability for the Nomad Residence Permit and assist with the application process. Our expert team can support applicants with the preparation of application forms and supporting documentation required for both the initial application as well as renewals.  

Based in Malta, with representative offices in UK and Ireland, we provide a comprehensive and award-winning range of legal, corporate, and private client services to international clients. Guided by a commitment to long-term relationships and exemplary customer service, our experienced team works to create inclusive, practical and cost-efficient solutions for clients. Among those we work with are individuals, family offices, companies, governments and intermediaries.