🇲🇹 Malta
Nomad Residence Permit
The Nomad Residence Permit is a Malta-specific pathway for remote workers, freelancers, and digital nomads to live legally in Malta while working for employers or clients outside Malta.
Overview
The Malta Nomad Residence Permit is a residence pathway designed for remote workers, freelancers, and digital nomads. Applicants must prove they can work remotely for an employer or clients based outside Malta, and their income must not be derived from local Maltese sources. The permit allows holders to live and work in Malta legally, but they cannot enter into an employment or service relationship with local Maltese entities. The initial permit is typically valid for 1 year and can be renewed, but cumulative residence is generally limited to a specific number of years (official criteria subject to change). Applicants must meet an income threshold (official criteria subject to change) and provide health insurance and a police clearance certificate. Spouses and dependent children may accompany the applicant, but additional relationship documents are required. This pathway is suitable for individuals who wish to enjoy Mediterranean life in Malta while maintaining an international career.
Requirements
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Hold a valid passport
- Prove remote work for an employer or clients outside Malta, or have a self-employed remote business
- Meet the official minimum income threshold (official criteria subject to change)
- Provide comprehensive health insurance covering Malta
- Have no criminal record
- Be a non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizen
- Must not have an employment or service relationship with local Maltese entities
Application steps
- Prepare application documents, including passport, proof of remote work, income proof, health insurance, police clearance, etc.
- Submit the application online through the Identity Malta system and pay the application fee.
- Wait for processing; additional documents or an interview may be required.
- After approval, collect the residence card at the Identity Malta office or designated location within 30 days of entering Malta.
- Renew the permit annually, re-proving income and work status each time.
Tips
- Ensure income proof clearly meets the official threshold.
- Prepare English translations and notarized documents in advance.
- Health insurance must cover all of Malta; consider an international policy.
- Remote work proof should clearly state that the employer or client is outside Malta.
- Check that your passport is valid for the entire intended residence period.
- Accompanying family members must submit separate relationship documents, such as marriage or birth certificates.
Is this pathway right for you?
Take the free assessment and see whether the Nomad Residence Permit — and other routes — actually fit your background.