Nomad residence in Malta: an opportunity to live and work on a sunny Mediterranean island – Immigration

Digital nomads – the background

Digital nomads are remote workers who regularly move to different locations. They use modern technology to work from cafes, hotels, coworking spaces or libraries with a Wi-Fi connected laptop or smartphone from anywhere in the world.

Digital nomads tend to be freelancers or independent contractors, working for themselves or for companies as independent contractors.

In the past, it was difficult for entrepreneurs and freelancers to apply for traditional visas, as either a contract with a local entity was required or an invitation letter. A tourist visa, for example, is not suitable as the individual may want to stay longer.

Malta Nomadic Residence Permit

Malta nomadic residence permit can easily be obtained by; remote workers, digital nomads and freelancers and grants its holder the legal right to reside in Malta and travel visa-free to all Schengen member states.

About Malta

Malta has long been famous for its expat-friendly environment, which is well exemplified by the large expat community in Malta. Thanks to its favorable legislative system and tax advantages, the island is home to many foreign companies.

It is a small country in size but has a cosmopolitan soul. There are plenty of cafes, bars, restaurants, and coworking spaces that make life easier for digital nomads. Additionally, it is now one of the few countries in the world with nationwide 5G coverage.

Along with its digital nomad-friendly environment, it also has everything an ideal island would have; beaches, 300 days of sunshine a year, a relaxed lifestyle, excellent seafood and lots of fun. Malta has it all and is an ideal base for remote working.

Eligibility Criteria for Nomadic Residence Permit in Malta

There is a specific set of rules for the program.

Applicants must:

• Be a national of a third country (outside the EU)




• Have a monthly income of €2,700 (gross of tax) for a single applicant




• Have an employment contract for an employer registered in a country other than Malta, WHERE




• Be a partner/shareholder of a company registered in a country other than Malta, WHERE




• Provide freelance services to clients whose permanent establishments are in countries other than Malta and with whom the candidate has one or more contracts




• Have a valid travel document




• Have health insurance covering Malta




• Present a contract for the rental or purchase of real estate

Cost of application and time to obtain nomadic residence permit in Malta

The government fee for the main applicant is €328, with an additional fee of €328 payable for each family applicant.

Applicants who intend to spend up to 180 days in Malta will receive a national visa, while those planning to spend up to 365 days or more will receive a residence permit.

Processing of applications takes approximately 30 days, from receipt of all required documents and application forms.

Which family members can be included?

The principal applicant may include dependent family members. It is possible to add a spouse and minor children, as well as adults financially dependent on the principal applicant.

Malta recognizes same-sex unions. A same-sex partner in a committed relationship for a defined period may be included in an application.

Applicable taxes

Holders of a nomadic residence permit are not subject to personal income tax as they are expected to pay tax in their country of origin. However, nomadic residence permit holders will be subject to consumption tax (VAT) in the same way as all Maltese residents.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide on the subject. Specialist advice should be sought regarding your particular situation.