A Digital Nomad is a person who can work remotely and who regularly travels to different locations. Modern technology is so important for them as this allows them to work from different locations around the world. Malta has 5G nationwide coverage.
Digital nomads can be freelancers or entrepreneurs who are self-employed persons. They can also be employed individuals who are allowed by their employers to work remotely.
The Malta Nomad Residence Permit
An application to become a Malta Nomad Residence Permit holder is a very straightforward process which grants the holder a right to reside in Malta and travel throughout the Schengen Member States without the need to apply and obtain a Visa.
About Malta
Malta is a sunny island in the middle of the Mediterranean which has seen substantial economic growth during the last few years. It boasts of a sound educational and health system. It is very famous for its expat-friendly environment, which is well illustrated by the large community of expatriates residing in Malta. It also has a very favourable fiscal system which has attracted a number of companies as well as highly qualified persons to relocate to Malta.
Malta is a small island with a population of half a million. It is surrounded by historical buildings, churches and cathedrals, a number of beaches, bars and restaurants serving good food and wine. Malta is the ideal jurisdiction for Digital Nomads to work remotely as one can combine work with leisure. The island has 300 days of sunshine a year with a very mild winter in January and February. It offers a relaxed way of life, surrounded by a friendly Maltese population who are well known for their hospitality. Crime is practically non-existent.
It is a stone’s throw away from Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. With great air and sea links, our Island is well connected to the rest of the world.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be non-EU nationals
- Have a monthly income of at least €2,700 (gross of tax) AND
- Have a work contract for an employer that is registered in an overseas jurisdiction OR
- Be a partner/shareholder in a company that is registered in an overseas jurisdiction OR
- Offer freelance services to clients whose permanent establishments are in an overseas jurisdiction, and with whom the applicant has a contract.
- Have a valid travel document such as a passport or identity card AND
- Be covered by health insurance AND
- Either rent or buy immovable property situated in Malta
Length of Stay in Malta
A Nomad Residence Permit is issued for one year and a holder may apply for a renewal of the permit by not later than one month prior to the expiry of the existing permit against a fee of €300 per applicant. Nomad Residence Permit holders may stay in Malta on this basis for a maximum period of three years. Applicants who intend to spend up to 180 days in Malta will be issued with a National Visa, while those who plan to spend up to 365 days or more will be issued with a Residence Permit.
Family Members
Family members accompanying the main applicant will also be considered. Family members consist of:
- The applicant’s spouse, minor children and adult children who are not married and are principally dependent on the main applicant, and
- Adult children unable to cope independently due to a medical condition or disability
The above may apply for a permit under the same conditions as the Nomad Residence Permit holder together with the main applicant.
In the event that the main applicant and the partner are not married (De Facto Partnership), the partner is required to provide proof of at least a two-year relationship with the main applicant so as to be considered as an accompanying family member. The proof should provide sufficient evidence that the main applicant and the partner have a mutual commitment towards each other to the exclusion of others and the relationship between them is a genuine one.
Processing Time and Cost of Application
Processing of the application is expected to take between one and two months, following receipt of all required documentation and application fee. The non-refundable application fees are €300 for the main applicant and another €300 for each dependant.
How can we assist?
We can assist you in the preparation and submission to the Maltese Authorities of the application and the supporting documentation for yourself and your family members to be granted the status of a Nomad Resident. ACT Advisory Services Limited (‘ACT’) is a company registered in Malta with registration number C65093. ACT is duly authorised to act as a licensed Malta immigration agent in terms of the Agents (Licences) Regulations, 2020 (L.N. 435 of 2020) and bound by the “Licence Agreement and Code of Conduct and Ethics for Agents” entered into with Community Malta Agency.
