The Malta Digital Nomad Visa, officially called the Nomad Residence Permit, allows non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss citizens to live and work remotely from Malta while enjoying the Mediterranean Sea lifestyle. It is designed for remote employees working for a foreign company, self-employed professionals who can provide self-employment documentary evidence, and digital nomads in fields like tech, marketing, design, and writing who can conduct business activities from anywhere with a stable internet connection.
This visa grants a Malta residence permit for up to one year and can be renewed twice, allowing a total stay of three years. It offers the chance to experience Malta’s rich culture, reliable infrastructure, and excellent quality of life. This guide will cover everything about the Malta Digital Nomad Visa, including the application process, minimum income requirements, and eligibility criteria.
This is more of what we will cover:
- What is the Malta Digital Nomad Visa?
- Benefits of the Malta Nomad Residence Permit
- Malta Digital Nomad Visa Requirements
- Required Documents for the Malta Digital Nomad Visa
- Malta Nomad Residence Permit Application Process
- Malta Digital nomad Visa Processing time
- Application Fee for the Malta Nomad Residence Permit
- Malta Nomad Residence Permit – Important Terms and Conditions
- Average Cost of Living for Digital Nomads in Malta
- Best Cities for Digital Nomads in Malta
What is the Malta Digital Nomad Visa?
The Malta Digital Nomad Visa, officially known as the Nomad Residence Permit, allows non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss citizens to live and work remotely in Malta for up to one year. This visa is designed for remote employees who work for registered companies that operate outside Malta, self-employed professionals such as freelancers or entrepreneurs who run their businesses primarily outside Malta, and digital nomads working in fields like tech, marketing, writing, or design who can maintain their employment while traveling.
The residence permit is initially valid for one year and can be renewed twice, allowing digital nomads to stay in Malta for up to three years, as long as they continue to meet the program’s requirements. The Residency Malta Agency oversees the program and helps applicants with initial applications and renewals, ensuring a smooth process for those wishing to enjoy life on the island.
Benefits of the Malta Nomad Residence Permit
There are a handful of benefits to acquiring the Malta Nomad Residence Permit, including the ability to work in Malta without having to pay taxes twice.
- Residency in Malta: Successful Malta Digital Nomad Visa applicants can live in Malta for up to one year, with the option to extend the visa.
- Tax advantages: Digital nomads may qualify for a flat tax rate of 15% on income earned outside Malta, making it a financially attractive option.
- Cultural experience: Applicants can immerse themselves in Malta’s rich history, diverse culture, and vibrant lifestyle.
- Community and networking: The visa creates a sense of community among digital nomads, offering opportunities for networking and collaboration.
- Work-life balance: Malta’s pleasant climate and relaxed atmosphere support a healthy work-life balance, enhancing overall well-being.
- Access to the EU market: Living in Malta provides access to the European Union market, making business opportunities and networking across Europe easier.
- English language: English is one of Malta’s official languages, which makes communication and integration easier for English-speaking nomads.
- High quality of life: Malta offers a high standard of living, excellent healthcare services, and a safe environment, contributing to an overall positive lifestyle.
Malta Digital Nomad Visa Requirements
The eligibility requirements for a Malta Digital Nomad Visa application include the following:
- Show a minimum annual income of €42,000 annually.
- Be of a non-European Union, non-EEA, or non-Swiss nationality.
- Be employed by a company registered in a foreign country; OR
- Be a recognized partner in an organization outside of Malta; OR
- Offer freelance or consulting services to entities whose permanent establishments are registered in a foreign country outside of Malta, demonstrating proof of an employment contract.
- Possess valid travel documents.
- Must have a valid health insurance policy covering the entire stay in Malta and show proof of a health declaration.
- Have a legal rental agreement or purchase agreement for a property in Malta.
- Undergo and pass a background verification check.
- Not have held the following nationalities or be a non-national but reside, do business, or have significant ties or connections to the following countries: Afghanistan, Belarus, Democratic Republic of Congo, Iran, North Korea, Russia, Yemen.
- Not being a citizen of a country on the US travel ban list.
- Not have been previously denied a visa to a country that has a visa waiver agreement with Malta.
Who qualifies as a dependent?
- Spouse
- Minor children of applicant and/or spouse (if sole custody not held, prior approval required by Residency Malta)
- Adult children of the applicant and/or spouse, not married and financially dependent
- Adult children with serious illness or disability
Required Documents for the Malta Digital Nomad Visa
- Passport copy – A full copy of your passport, including blank pages.
- Letter of intent – A brief statement explaining why you are applying.
- Proof of monthly income – Show income meeting the visa threshold for at least five months.
- Bank statements – Statements from the last three months.
- Proof of remote work – If employed, submit your contract and employer declaration allowing remote work. If self-employed, provide business registration documents and bank statements showing business income. Freelancers must submit service contracts.
- Proof of health insurance – A valid policy covering medical costs in Malta, plus a signed health declaration.
- Police conduct certificate – A criminal record check from your country of residence.
- Tax and GDPR declaration form – A signed declaration for tax compliance and data protection.
- Proof of accommodation – A valid property rental or purchase agreement. Temporary stays (up to one month) are allowed at first, but a one-year lease is required upon arrival. Hostel stays are not accepted.
- Curriculum vitae (CV) – A document detailing your work and education history.
Malta Nomad Residence Permit Application Process
Application for the Malta Digital Nomad Visa can be done through the Malta Residency Agency
Step 1: Gather the required documents as previously listed.
Step 2: Complete the Nomad Residence Permit application online and upload all required documents.
Step 3: Pay the €300 application fee via direct bank transfer when submitting the application.
Step 4:Wait for approval while the Residency Malta Agency reviews your application and processes your documents.
Step 5: Once approved, provide proof of accommodation and health insurance within 30 days to receive the final approval letter.
Step 6: Apply for an entry visa if you need one to enter Malta, the Central Visa Unit at Identità will contact you with instructions.
Step 7: Travel to Malta and schedule an appointment at the Residency Malta Agency to submit your biometrics.
Step 8: Collect the residence card which will be issued within three to four weeks. You will receive an email once it’s ready for collection, and the card will be valid for one year.
Step 9: Before your permit expires, submit the required documents for renewal. The permit can be renewed up to three times, allowing a total stay of four years.
Malta Digital Nomad Visa Processing time
Malta Digital Nomad Visa processing time takes around 60 days from the time of application submission. This includes the review and approval of your documents by the Residency Malta Agency. It may take longer if additional documents or information are required.
Application Fee for the Malta Nomad Residence Permit
The Malta Digital Nomad Visa cost for the main applicant is €300. Individuals who wish to include their family members can do so by paying an additional €300 for each family member.
There is also a fee of €27.50 per person for issuing the residency card, which must be paid at Residency Malta’s offices. Payments can only be made by card. Cash payments are not accepted.
Do digital nomad pay taxes in Malta?
The main applicant for the Malta Digital Nomad Visa is subject to a 10% tax rate on income derived from authorized remote work, which is considered “chargeable income.” This rate applies to income earned through the work they are authorized to do under the visa, with potential relief for any double taxation.
However, family members accompanying the main applicant do not benefit from this special tax rate and will be subject to the standard tax rates in Malta.
Malta Nomad Residence Permit – Important Terms and Conditions
Digital nomads who want to live and work from Malta for up to 180 days will be given a national visa, whereas individuals who want to relocate to Malta for a minimum of 365 days and above will be given a Nomad Residence Permit. The applicant must be a third-country national and submit their applications through the nearest local Malta Embassy or Consulate in their home country.
Average Cost of Living for Digital Nomads in Malta
Living in Malta is more affordable than in many Western European countries for someone on the Digital Nomad Visa. As a digital nomad, you should budget between €1,100 and €2,000 per month to cover essentials like rent, groceries, transportation, and utilities. Your total expenses will vary based on your lifestyle and whether you live alone or with others.
Expense Category | Estimated Monthly Cost (€) | Details |
Accommodation | 800 - 1,500 | Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in central areas (varies by location). Lower costs for shared accommodation. |
Internet | 30 - 50 | High-speed broadband internet (30 - 100 Mbps), reliable for remote work. |
Coworking Space | 150 - 300 | Membership fees for coworking spaces, depending on the location and amenities. |
Food (Groceries) | 150 - 250 | Monthly groceries for a single person. Dining out will increase the cost. |
Health Insurance | 50 - 150 | Basic health insurance coverage for non-EU residents (private plans). |
Mobile Phone | 20 - 40 | Mobile phone plan with data (varies by provider). |
Utilities (Electricity, Water, etc.) | 100 - 150 | Monthly utilities including electricity, water, heating, and garbage collection. |
Best Cities for Digital Nomads in Malta
As a digital nomad in Malta, these are some of the best cities to experience the best nomad lifestyle.
Valletta: The capital city offers a vibrant cultural scene, historical landmarks, and excellent public transport. It has plenty of co-working spaces and a high standard of living.
Sliema: This city is known for its modern amenities, beautiful seafront, and proximity to Valletta. Sliema has a huge digital nomad community and has great cafes, restaurants, and co-working spaces.
St. Julian’s: This lively town has a great nightlife scene, well-functioning internet facilities, and co-working spaces. It is ideal for those who enjoy a more energetic environment.
Mosta: A quieter town with more affordable living costs, Mosta is a great option for digital nomads seeking peace but still within reach of busy cities.
Birgu (Vittoriosa): One of the oldest cities on the island, Birgu offers a mix of history and modernity. It’s less crowded than the other cities, which makes it a good option for digital nomads who want more quiet surroundings while still being connected.
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Frequently Asked Questions about the Malta Digital Nomad Visa
What is the Malta Digital Nomad Visa?
The Malta Digital Nomad Visa, also known as the Nomad Residence Permit, allows non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss citizens to live and work remotely in Malta. It’s designed for remote employees, self-employed professionals, and digital nomads in fields like tech, marketing, and design. The visa is valid for one year and can be renewed twice, allowing up to three years in total.
Is Malta good for digital nomads?
Yes, Malta is a great destination for digital nomads. It offers a warm Mediterranean climate, strong internet connectivity, and a thriving expat community. The Malta Digital Nomad Visa provides a straightforward pathway for remote workers to live and work legally in the country. With coworking spaces, excellent transport links, and a high quality of life, Malta is an attractive base for digital nomads.
How should one apply for a Digital Nomad Residence Permit?
To apply for the Malta Digital Nomad Residence Permit, you need to gather the required documents, such as proof of remote work, health insurance, and accommodation. Complete the online application, pay the application fee, and submit your documents. Once approved, you’ll need to provide proof of accommodation and health insurance to receive final approval and the residence permit.
Can a Nomad Residence Permit holder offer their service to individuals or companies registered in Malta?
No, holders of the Nomad Residence Permit cannot offer services to individuals or companies registered in Malta. The permit is designed for remote work where the individual’s employment or business activities are based outside of Malta.
Can I work remotely from Malta?
Yes, if you’re a third-country national, you can work remotely in Malta by applying for the Malta Digital Nomad Visa, which provides one year of residency with the right to renew your permit twice for a total of three years.
Do digital nomads pay tax in Malta?
Yes, digital nomads in Malta pay tax. They are subject to a flat 10% income tax rate under the Nomad Residence Permit, much lower than the standard 35% rate. Additionally, during the first year of the visa, there is a 0% tax rate on income earned outside of Malta.
Can digital nomads bring their families to Malta on the Digital Nomad Visa?
Yes, applicants of the Malta Digital Nomad Visa can bring their families to Malta. This includes the applicant’s spouse, minor children, and adult children who are financially dependent. However, the parents of the main applicant and their spouse cannot be included.
Is health insurance required for the Malta Digital Nomad Visa?
Yes, all applicants for the Malta Digital Nomad Visa need to provide evidence of valid health insurance to be permitted entry.
How long does it take to get approved for the Malta Digital Nomad Visa?
The Malta Digital Nomad Visa takes about 60 days to process. Keep in mind that as part of the Nomad Residence Permit requirements, the Residency Malta Agency will conduct a background check once you’ve submitted all the required documents.
