How to Apply for the Malta Digital Nomad Visa

Malta is hopping on the digital nomad visa bandwagon! Early June 2021, the Malta digital nomad visa was introduced to the world, creating a fantastic opportunity for non-EU digital nomads. 

As of recently, there were only two countries in the Schengen Area that offered digital nomads visas to work and live in Europe: Portugal and Estonia. Now, Malta joins the list! 

This European island country already estimates it has about a thousand digital nomads already living there, but they’re mostly EU nationals. However, with the Malta digital nomad visa, digital nomads worldwide can live in the country for six months to a year. 

Did we also mention it’s only 300€ to apply for this residence permit? 

By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly how to apply for Malta’s digital nomad visa and begin another chapter of your digital nomad journey.

What is a Digital Nomad Visa?

A digital nomad visa is for remote workers, business owners, and freelancers who wish to live in a foreign country for longer than a tourist visa allows. 

Technically, these visas are more resident permits, allowing digital nomads to live in the country. 

To be eligible for a digital nomad visa, you must work for a foreign company (not one in the country where you’re living), own a business, or work as a freelancer with foreign clients. 

This is perfect for digital nomads who want to settle down somewhere without worrying about border-hopping or overstaying their tourist visas. 

Malta Digital Nomad Visa Requirements

As with any type of visa, there are certain requirements you must meet to be eligible to apply for it. Below, you’ll find all of the necessary conditions for the visa.

• Valid Passport – Your passport must be valid 
• Remote Income – You must work as an employee or freelancer or own a business outside of Malta
• 2,700€ per Month – You must make at least 2,700€ per month (gross tax) and have proof of income and bank statements from the last three months
  • Earn 3,240€/month if bringing a spouse
  • 20% increase for each additional family member
• Completed Application – Fill out the application, sign it, and email it to the Residency Malta Agency
• Visa Fee – The fee to apply for Malta’s digital nomad visa is 300€

Steps to Apply

Now that you know the requirements to be eligible for the visa, we’re going to tell you the steps for how to apply. Fortunately, it’s much easier than other digital nomad visas as it takes place right online. However, some people prefer to work with a lawyer who specializes in Malta’s digital nomad visa for an even easier experience.

 

Step 1: Gather Documents

Collect all of your necessary documents and complete the application. 

These include:

• Copy of your Passport (including blank pages)
• Completed Application
• Letter of Intent stating your reasons for applying
• Bank information and statements from the last three months
• Employment/Freelance contracts or proof of business ownership
• EuroPass CV – resume with your education and work experience, signed by you
• GDPR Declaration Form

Step 2: Submit Application Online

Upload all of these documents digitally and email them to the Residency Malta Agency. 

Keep in mind all applications and documents must be typed. They will not accept handwritten documents. 

Step 3: Wait for Approval

Wait to receive an answer. On average, it will take about 30 days to process applications and to be notified of a decision. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Where and how will visa holders pay taxes? Will they owe income tax to Malta?

Nomad Residence Permit holders are required to pay income taxes at the source, in the country where the business is registered. It is every individual’s duty to check his/her tax status with the relevant authorities, as every case may differ depending on the specific situation.

Can an applicant bring dependents/spouses? If so, do they need their own applications? Does the application fee change? Does the income requirement increase?

Yes, an applicant can bring their spouse and dependents. The spouse and/or dependents of an applicant or of an already approved applicant would need to submit Form N2 – Nomad Family Member Residence Permit together with an application fee of €300 per applicant. Form N4 – GDPR Declaration Form also needs to be filled in. These need to include International passports and health declarations. The spouse would need to submit a marriage certificate, whilst a birth certificate would need to be submitted for the child.

De facto partners would need to submit a Declaration of Timeline by the main applicant and proof of relationship (such as lease agreements or purchase agreements, flight tickets, bills, letters from family, and photos), which date back up to 2 years or more.

With every dependant/spouse, the income requirement increases by 20% of Malta’s median wage. This may change from time to time, it is best to consult with the National Statistics Office beforehand here.

Can applicants bring their pets?

As long as your pet meets the requirements for entry, then your pet can join you in Malta. For more info and to apply, please visit the Pets Travel Scheme website.

Are there limitations on the applicant’s country of origin?

Yes. To be eligible for a Nomad Residence Permit, one must be a non-EU non-EEA, and non-Swiss national. The Residency Malta Agency also issues a list of ineligible countries. The list may be revised from time to time by the Agency at its discretion.

Current ineligible countries include Russia, Belarus, Afghanistan, North Korea, Iran, Democratic Republic of Congo, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Yemen, and Venezuela.

For the most up-to-date list, check the FAQ document on the official website.

Are there a certain number of visas granted per year?

No.

Can the applicant’s income be passive, or it must be earned through an employer/business?

No, income cannot be passive, it must be earned through employment, self-employment or freelancing.

How many days must an applicant stay in Malta in one year if they choose to travel to different countries?

In order to renew the Nomad Residence Permit for another year, the applicant must spend at least five comulative months in Malta out of one year. If holding a six-month visa, the applicant must spend at least three cumulative months in Malta during this period to renew it.

Visa holders may travel in the Schengen Area for 90 out of 180 days.

What is the best way to obtain an address in Malta if an applicant has not visited the country yet?

It is not mandatory to submit proof of accommodation upon submission of the application.  Should the application be approved and a Letter of Approval in Principle is issued, the applicant has the option to submit proof of temporary accommodation for a minimum of 1 month (a card is not issued based on this). Upon arrival to Malta, before booking a biometrics appointment, the applicant must submit a lease covering the full duration of the permit. If the chosen accommodation is deemed to satisfy the program requirements, a Letter of Final Approval is issued.

Temporary accommodation is a 1-month maximum accommodation submitted upon Letter of Approval in Principle.  Note, however, that the Residence Card cannot be issued to a temporary address.

• Co-living – If you wish to co-live with someone, you need to provide a contract showing your name.
•  Renting a place – If you wish to rent a place, you would need to provide us with a signed copy of the lease agreement between yourself and the lessor.
• Staying with someone in a purchased property – If you wish to stay with someone that owns a purchased property, you would need to provide us with a copy of the purchase agreement and a declaration by the person whom you are staying with, stating your name and duration of stay.
• Purchased Property – If you have purchased a property in Malta and wish to stay in it, you would need to submit a purchase agreement of the property.

Why Malta?

Malta may not be one of the top digital nomad destinations, but it has plenty to offer. 

First of all, it’s absolutely gorgeous! Imagine an old European town settled right on an island in the middle of the Mediterranean? Calm, laidback vibes, stone streets, stunning beaches, and incredible cuisines are exactly what you can find in Malta. 

It’s also very affordable to live in Malta. Everyday purchases such as groceries and eating out at restaurants are definitely less expensive than the rest of Western Europe. Plus, you can find great accommodations that are comfortable and well within budget. 

The weather also deserves a notable mention as it’s often warm and mild, perfect for exploring the city or relaxing on the beach watching the calm crystal water wash up. 

Malta’s WiFi connection is another awesome benefit for digital nomads. While it’s an island, it’s connected to the rest of the world fairly well in technology and travel accessibility. In the last couple of years, coworking spaces have started popping up around the country as well.

Let Us Help You Apply for the Malta Digital Nomad Visa

Even after reading this article, you may still be confused about the process of applying for Estonia’s digital nomad visa. Luckily, you don’t have to do it alone! 

Nomads Embassy offers one-on-one assistance to help you file your application and gather all of the necessary documents. 

Still, considering whether to start the digital nomad lifestyle?

We’ve got you covered there too! With our interactive platform, innovative step-by-step process, and excellent support, becoming a digital nomad has never been easier. 

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