About the Malta Digital Nomad Visa
Malta offers the Nomad Residence Permit (NRP) for non-resident remote workers and self-employed professionals. The program lets eligible applicants live in Malta for 1 year, renewable for up to 3 additional years (maximum 4 years total). Must spend at least 5 cumulative months in Malta per year for renewal eligibility. Does not lead to permanent residency. while working remotely for clients or employers based outside the country.
Applicants typically need to demonstrate stable monthly income of at least EUR3,500 per month, valid health insurance, and a clean criminal record. It is renewable, allowing nomads to extend their stay.
Tax-wise, Malta treats digital nomad visa holders distinctly from local residents — see the Taxes section below for the full picture.
Requirements & Eligibility
Income
Minimum €42,000/year gross from remote work (approximately €3,500/month). Only active employment/business income counts — passive income (dividends, interest, rental) excluded. Income threshold does not increase for dependents.
Documents needed
- Completed NRP application form
- Valid travel document/passport (photocopy)
- Recent passport-size photo
- Proof of remote employment OR business ownership OR freelance contracts (employment contract, company registration, client contracts — all with non-Maltese entities)
- 3+ months of bank statements and payslips/income documents showing min €42,000/year gross
- Police conduct certificate issued within last 6 months from country of residence
- Health insurance policy: all-risks coverage valid in EU and Malta (cover for illness, accidents, hospitalization, and repatriation)
- Declaration that applicant can work remotely using telecoms. After approval: Proof of accommodation in Malta (1-year lease contract or property purchase deed)
- Proof of comprehensive health insurance for full stay duration. For dependents: marriage certificate, birth certificates, financial dependence proof.
How to Apply for the Malta DNV
Processing time: 30 working days from submission for initial application review. Additional 30 working days to review health insurance and accommodation after Letter of Approval in Principle. Residence card: 3–4 weeks after final approval. Total: approximately 2–3 months.
- 1Confirm eligibility (non-EU/EEA/Swiss national; age 18+; remote employee of foreign company OR partner/shareholder of foreign company OR freelancer with foreign clients; min €42,000/year gross income; accommodation in Malta).
- 2Gather all required documents.
- 3Complete online application at nomad.residencymalta.gov.mt.
- 4Submit application via email to Residency Malta Agency with supporting documents.
- 5Pay €300 application fee by bank transfer.
- 6Wait 30 working days for initial background check and decision.
- 7If approved: receive Letter of Approval in Principle. Submit proof of accommodation (1-year rental contract or purchase agreement) and health insurance within 30 working days.
- 8Receive Letter of Final Approval.
- 9Apply for entry visa at Central Visa Unit at Identità if needed.
- 10Arrive in Malta and schedule biometrics appointment at Residency Malta Agency.
- 11Collect residence card (3–4 weeks after biometrics).
Application fees: €300 non-refundable application fee per main applicant, paid by bank transfer when submitting application. Additional €100 for residence card issuance. Same fees apply per dependent.
Official sourceVisa Duration & Renewal
Initial duration: 1 year, renewable for up to 3 additional years (maximum 4 years total). Must spend at least 5 cumulative months in Malta per year for renewal eligibility. Does not lead to permanent residency.
Renewal: Yes — the Nomad Residence Permit (NRP) can be renewed beyond the initial period.
Taxes for Digital Nomads in Malta
Foreign-sourced income exempt from Maltese income tax for first 12 months. After first year: flat 10% tax rate on remote income remitted to Malta. Foreign-sourced income NOT remitted to Malta is generally not taxed. No Maltese social security contributions required. Malta has double taxation treaties with many countries.