Malta is an EU and Schengen member state offering 300 days of sunshine, English as an official language, excellent 5G connectivity, and one of Europe's most attractive digital nomad visa programs. The Nomad Residence Permit allows non-EU remote workers to live in Malta for up to 4 years while enjoying tax benefits and visa-free Schengen travel.
6
Visa Types
115
Nationalities visa-free
🪪Your Passport:
Visa requirements vary by nationality
🎫 Available Visa Types
⭐Recommended for Digital Nomads
Tourist
Schengen Visa-Free Entry
Citizens from visa-exempt countries can enter Malta and the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without a visa.
90 days
Duration
€0
<$1 fee
+€50 additional
✅ Key Benefits
✓No application process or fees
✓Free movement within entire Schengen Area
✓Immediate entry upon arrival
✓Valid for tourism, business meetings, and family visits
📋 Requirements (6)
•Valid passport with at least 3 months validity beyond planned stay
•Passport issued within the last 10 years
•Proof of sufficient funds for the stay
•Return or onward travel ticket
•Proof of accommodation
•Travel insurance recommended
📝 Application Process
Embassy Required⏱ Immediate upon arrival
1Arrive at Malta International Airport or sea port
2Present valid passport to immigration
3Show proof of accommodation and return ticket if requested
Yes, Malta offers the Nomad Residence Permit, one of Europe's most attractive digital nomad visa programs. It allows non-EU remote workers to live in Malta for up to 4 years while working for foreign employers or clients. The permit requires a minimum gross annual income of EUR 42,000 and offers tax benefits including exemption from local income tax for the first 12 months and a flat 10% tax rate thereafter.
Can I work remotely for a foreign company while staying in Malta?
Yes, but it depends on your visa status. EU citizens can work freely in Malta without restrictions. Non-EU citizens on tourist visa-free entry or Schengen visa technically cannot work, though remote work for foreign employers is generally tolerated for short stays. For legal long-term remote work, non-EU nationals should apply for the Nomad Residence Permit, which explicitly allows working remotely for foreign employers while residing in Malta.
What is the 90-day Schengen rule and how does it apply to Malta?
Malta is part of the Schengen Area, meaning stays count toward your 90-day limit across all 27 Schengen countries. You can stay up to 90 days within any 180-day rolling period. This applies to all visa-free nationalities (US, UK, Canada, Australia, etc.). Time spent in any Schengen country counts toward this limit. The Nomad Residence Permit or other long-stay visas are required for stays exceeding 90 days.
How long does the Nomad Residence Permit application take?
The Nomad Residence Permit application typically takes 30 to 60 working days from when the application fee is received. After approval in principle, you have 30 days to submit proof of accommodation and health insurance. Once you receive final approval (valid for 90 days), you must travel to Malta for biometrics, and the residence card is issued within 3-4 weeks after.
Can my family join me on the Nomad Residence Permit?
Yes, you can include your spouse and dependent children in your Nomad Residence Permit application. Each family member requires a EUR 300 application fee plus EUR 27.50 for the residence card. Importantly, the EUR 42,000 income requirement does not increase with additional family members. De facto partners may also be included with proper documentation of the relationship.
What are the tax implications of the Nomad Residence Permit?
Nomad Residence Permit holders enjoy favorable tax treatment in Malta. For the first 12 months, you are exempt from Malta income tax on foreign-source income. After the first year, a flat 10% tax rate applies to income earned from employment or business activities outside Malta. You must ensure you are not also liable for taxes in your home country or country of employment to avoid double taxation.
Is health insurance mandatory for visiting or living in Malta?
For short-term visits on visa-free entry, health insurance is recommended but not mandatory. However, for Schengen visa applicants, travel medical insurance with minimum EUR 30,000 coverage is mandatory. For Nomad Residence Permit holders, comprehensive health insurance covering Malta and EU countries with at least EUR 30,000 coverage is required for the full permit duration. UK citizens are exempt due to reciprocal healthcare agreement.
Can I open a bank account in Malta as a digital nomad?
Opening a bank account in Malta can be challenging for non-residents. Traditional banks like Bank of Valletta and HSBC Malta often have lengthy processes and require residence permits, proof of address, and bank reference letters. Digital banks like MeDirect offer easier onboarding for EU residents. Many digital nomads use international alternatives like Wise, Revolut, or Bunq for everyday transactions while in Malta.
Does the Nomad Residence Permit lead to permanent residency or citizenship?
No, the Nomad Residence Permit does not provide a path to permanent residency or Maltese citizenship. It is specifically designed as a temporary residence option for remote workers (maximum 4 years). For permanent residency, you would need to explore other routes such as the Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) which requires significant investment, or qualifying through long-term ordinary residence.
What happens if my Schengen visa application for Malta is rejected?
If your Schengen visa application is rejected, you will receive a refusal letter stating the reasons. You have the right to appeal to the Immigration Appeals Board in Valletta within 15 days. The rejection may affect future Schengen applications and disqualifies you from applying for the Nomad Residence Permit unless you subsequently receive an approved Schengen visa. The global rejection rate for Malta Schengen visas was approximately 38.5% in 2024.
⚠️
Important Disclaimer
Visa requirements can change frequently. This information is provided for general guidance only and should not be considered legal advice. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or immigration authorities before making travel plans. Last updated: December 1, 2025