The Malta Digital Nomad Visa (Nomad Residence Permit) lets remote workers live in Malta while working for non-Maltese companies. Here's what you need to know:

  • Eligibility: Earn at least €3,500 monthly from remote work.
  • Cost: €300 application fee.
  • Duration: Valid for 1 year, renewable up to 3 years.
  • Tax: Flat 10% tax on foreign income after 12 months.
  • Family: Spouse and children can join without additional income requirements.
  • Benefits: Access to Malta's 5G coverage, English-speaking environment, and Schengen travel (90 days in 180 days).

Quick Overview:

  • Documents: Passport, work proof, income proof, health insurance, rental agreement, police certificate.
  • Application: Online via the Residency Malta Agency; processing takes ~30 days.
  • Living Costs: Rent starts at €700/month; monthly expenses average ~€2,000.

Malta offers a sunny Mediterranean lifestyle, reliable internet, and favourable tax policies for digital nomads. It's an ideal destination for remote professionals seeking work-life balance.

Visa Requirements

Eligibility Check

To apply for Malta's Digital Nomad Visa, you need to show a stable monthly income of at least €3,500 from sources outside Malta. You'll also need proof of remote work, such as a valid work contract. Your job must be fully digital, allowing you to work from anywhere.

Document Checklist

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare:

  • A valid travel document, like a passport
  • Health insurance that covers Malta and other European countries
  • A signed property rental agreement or proof of property ownership in Malta
  • A police conduct certificate from your current country of residence

Make sure all documents are in English or include certified English translations. They must also be up-to-date and valid when you submit your application.

Family Member Rules

The visa programme allows eligible family members to join the main applicant. This usually includes a spouse or partner and dependent children. The visa is valid for one year and can be renewed for up to three years. For additional requirements specific to family members, refer to the official Maltese guidelines.

How to Apply

Document Preparation

Here's what you'll need to gather:

  • Nomad Residence Permit application form
  • A letter explaining your intention to work remotely from Malta
  • An up-to-date CV highlighting your remote work experience
  • Bank statements from the past three months showing consistent income
  • Health insurance that covers Malta and Europe
  • Proof of accommodation (property rental agreement or ownership document)
  • A police conduct certificate issued within the last six months
  • Tax declaration and GDPR consent forms

Ensure all documents are either in English or include a certified translation. Scan them in colour at high resolution for submission.

Application Filing

To apply, follow these steps:

  1. Sign up on the Residency Malta Agency website.
  2. Fill out the online application form.
  3. Upload all the necessary documents.
  4. Pay the £260 (€300) application fee.

Once submitted, processing usually takes about 30 days. If you're a third-country national needing a visa, an additional £260 (€300) fee applies for premium visa processing.

Next Steps After Approval

Once approved, here's what you need to do:

  1. Entry and Registration
    • You'll receive approval documents via email.
    • If required, apply for an entry visa at your nearest Maltese embassy.
    • Register your address with local authorities within one month.
    • Secure a one-year property lease.
    • Collect your Nomad Residence Permit.
  2. Permit Management
    • The permit is valid for one year, with the option to renew it up to three times (four years total).
    • If you need to make changes, submit Form N3 within one week.
    • A processing fee of £24 (€27.50) applies for changes.

Money Matters

Tax Rules for Digital Nomads

If you're earning income from remote work for non-Maltese clients, Malta applies a flat 10% tax rate on this income. There's also a 12-month tax exemption on such income if you establish residency in Malta. Additionally, if you're already paying at least 10% tax on this income in another country, it might be exempt from Maltese taxation.

For other types of income, Malta uses a progressive tax system. Here's how it breaks down:

Annual Income (EUR) Tax Rate Standard Deduction
Up to 12,000 0% £0 (€0)
12,001 - 16,000 15% £1,565 (€1,800)
16,001 - 60,000 25% £2,956 (€3,400)
Over 60,001 35% £8,174 (€9,400)

On top of these tax advantages, Malta is known for its relatively low cost of living, making it an attractive destination for digital nomads.

Monthly Expenses in Malta

Malta combines favourable tax policies with a reasonable cost of living. Here's a breakdown of typical monthly expenses:

Essential Costs:

  • Rent (1-bedroom flat): £608–£869 (€700–€1,000)
  • Utilities: £87–£130 (€100–€150)
  • Internet and mobile: £17–£26 (€20–€30)
  • Groceries: £434–£695 (€500–€800)
  • Gas cylinder (lasts about 3 months): £26 (€30)

Additional Costs:

  • Ride-hailing services (10 rides): £130 (€150)
  • Weekly dining out: £260 (€300)
  • Gym membership: £56 (€65)

Public transport is free, but many people prefer the convenience of ride-hailing services. A monthly budget of around £1,739 (€2,000) should allow for a comfortable lifestyle. For those looking to save, Gozo offers more affordable living, with rents starting at £608 (€700) per month.

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Life in Malta

Best Areas to Live

Sliema is a favourite among digital nomads, thanks to its high-end amenities. Renting a two-bedroom penthouse here will set you back around £1,608 (≈€1,850) per month. If you're after something more affordable, Mellieħa offers two-bedroom apartments for roughly £565 (≈€650) per month. Take some time to explore different neighbourhoods before settling in.

Getting Started in Malta

Here are some key steps to get started:

  • Health insurance: It's mandatory, so make sure to secure comprehensive coverage.
  • Short-term rentals: Begin with temporary accommodation to get a feel for the area.
  • Local bank account: Open one to handle everyday expenses with ease.

Malta also boasts excellent connectivity, with 19 coworking spaces available, making it easy for digital nomads to find a workspace that suits their needs.

Malta: Advantages and Challenges

Malta's visa conditions are appealing, and the cost of living is about 30% lower than in the UK, Austria, and Ireland. Combine that with fast internet, a Mediterranean climate, and English as a widely spoken language, and you have a great environment for remote work. However, rental prices vary significantly. Sliema is on the pricier side, while Mellieħa offers more budget-friendly options.

If you're considering buying property, entry-level apartments start at about £79,130 (≈€91,000). For residency through property ownership, you'll need to invest at least £241,860 (€278,000) in Gozo or southern Malta, or £281,880 (€324,000) in other areas.

To keep monthly costs down, consider shopping at local markets for groceries and fresh produce.

Nomad Millionaire Support

Our Nomad Millionaire support provides practical tools to help you smoothly transition to life in Malta.

Relocation Planning Tools

Plan your move with ease using tools designed to help you manage your budget, keep track of expenses, and set financial goals - all while continuing your current job.

Learning Resources

Get access to resources specifically tailored for Malta, including:

  • A weekly newsletter with updates for digital nomads
  • Video guides covering Malta's financial system
  • Interviews with experienced nomads
  • Step-by-step guides on banking, healthcare, and property rentals

These resources simplify everything from choosing the right neighbourhood to setting up your remote workspace. If you’re looking for more personalised advice, our consultation service can guide you on finances, tax planning, and long-term strategies.

Summary

The Malta Digital Nomad Visa offers digital professionals the chance to live and work remotely from this beautiful Mediterranean island. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate a monthly income of €3,500 (€42,000 annually) and pay a €300 application fee. Applications can be submitted online, making the process straightforward.

Key Points

Financial Requirements:

  • Show proof of a gross annual income of €42,000.
  • Pay a €300 application fee.

Main Advantages:

  • After the first 12 months, a flat 10% tax rate applies to income earned outside Malta.
  • Family members can be included in the application without increasing the income requirement.

These details make it easier to understand what’s needed for a successful application.

To help you navigate the process, Nomad Millionaire provides a weekly newsletter and expert guides. Make sure to research thoroughly and seek professional advice to ensure everything is in order. With proper preparation, you can become part of Malta's growing digital nomad community.

Below are answers to common questions about the visa.

FAQs

Q: How long does the visa application process take?
A: Processing times vary. Submitting complete documentation is crucial, and professional assistance can help speed things up.

Q: Can I include family members in my application?
A: Yes, you can. The minimum income requirement of €3,500 per month stays the same, no matter how many family members are included.

Q: What are the tax rules for digital nomads in Malta?
A: Malta offers a favourable tax system. A flat 10% tax rate applies to income earned outside the country after the first 12 months.