Malta’s Nomad Residence Permit
Malta’s Nomad Residence Permit allows permit holders to retain their employment in another country while legally residing in Malta.
The permit is open to individuals who can work remotely and independent of location, using telecommunications technologies.
The permit is issued for one year and is renewed on application at the discretion of Residency Malta, as long as the applicant still meets the eligibility criteria.
Who can apply?
Applicants must prove they can work remotely, and must also be third country nationals (non-EU, non-EEA and non-Swiss nationals) and have a minimum gross yearly income of €42,000.
Applicants must also:
- Hold a valid travel document
- Have health insurance covering risks in Malta and European countries
- Hold a valid property rental or purchase agreement
- Provide a police conduct certificate
- Pass a background verification check.
Standard rules and procedures for obtaining visas and similar permits apply, in addition to the proof of eligibility.
Eligible dependants who may be included in the application are:
- The spouse
- Minor children of the main applicant and/or spouse
- Adult children of the main applicant and/or spouse, who are not married and who are principally dependent on the applicant
- Adult children of the main applicant and/or spouse, who are unable to cope independently due to a medical condition or disability.
In addition, applicants must prove they fall under any one of the following three categories:
- Employed — with an employer registered in a foreign country and in possession of an employment contract
- Self-Employed — conduct business activity for a company that is registered in a foreign country, and of which the applicant is a partner or shareholder
- Freelance — offer freelance or consulting services to clients whose permanent establishments are in a foreign country, and with whom the applicant has contract agreements.
What a digital nomad should pack:
- Valid travel documents
- Proof of income
- Agreements showing current engagement of employment outside of Malta
- Health insurance covering risks in Malta and European countries
- Proof of accommodation
- Police conduct certificate.
The Process
The Digital Nomad application process
Stage one
Gather documents
Refer to check-lists available on the website.
Stage two
Submit Application
Submit the application via the website, along with supporting documentation and receive payment instructions.
Stage three
Application Review
The agency and other Maltese authorities conduct background checks and will notify the applicant by email when the process is complete.
Stage four
Select Nomad Residence Permit/National Visa
If granted, the applicant will be invited to proceed to Malta. Follow the instructions provided on the approval letter to conclude the application.