The Local Foreigner

Every year people are coming and going in Malta. They are finding new opportunities, searching for better life or simply safe place. It’s essential to understand the different types of permits available to live in Malta. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the various residence permits that exist for those looking to make Malta their home.

1. Ordinary Residence Permit

The Ordinary Residence Permit is ideal for EU/EEA and Swiss nationals who wish to live in Malta for more than three months. Since Malta is a member of the European Union, EU citizens have the right to move and reside freely within the country. However, after three months, they are required to apply for this permit.

Requirements:

• Proof of financial stability (employment, self-employment, pension, etc.)
• Health insurance covering all risks in Malta
• Proof of accommodation (rented or owned property)

Process:
To apply, one must register with Identity Malta and provide the necessary documentation. The permit is renewable annually and allows the holder to work and reside in Malta.

2. Permanent Residence Permit

The Permanent Residence Permit is available for EU/EEA and Swiss nationals who have resided in Malta continuously for five years. This permit allows for permanent residency and comes with several benefits, including less frequent renewals and better access to local social services.

Requirements:

• Continuous residence in Malta for five years
• Proof of stable and regular income
• Proof of accommodation in Malta

Process:
After five years of legal residence, individuals can apply for this permit through Identity Malta. The permit is valid indefinitely, although the residence card needs to be renewed every five years.

3. Long Term Residence

Long-Term Residence (LTR) status in Malta, governed by S.L. 217.05, is a legal designation granted to third-country nationals who have resided in Malta legally and continuously for at least five years.

Requirements:

• Legal Residence
• Stable Income
• Accommodation
• Health Insurance
• Integration certificates

Process:

To apply for Long-Term Residence (LTR) in Malta, eligible third-country nationals must submit an application to Identity Malta with required documents, including proof of five years’ continuous residence, financial stability, health insurance, and language proficiency. The application is reviewed, and if approved, the applicant is granted indefinite residence and work rights in Malta.

4. Malta Global Residence Programme (GRP)

The Malta Global Residence Programme is designed for non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals who wish to establish a residence in Malta. This permit is particularly attractive to retirees or individuals with high net worth who are looking for a tax-efficient residence option in Europe.

Benefits:

• Attractive tax regime with a flat tax rate of 15% on foreign income remitted to Malta
• No inheritance or wealth taxes
• Access to Malta’s high standard of living and EU benefits

Requirements:

• Purchase or rental of qualifying property in Malta (minimum €275,000 purchase or €9,600 annual rental in central areas)
• Annual minimum tax of €15,000
• Health insurance covering Malta and the EU
• Proof of stable income or capital

Process:
Applications must be submitted through an authorized registered mandatory with Identity Malta. Once approved, the permit holder and their dependents can live in Malta.

5. Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP)

The Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) is another option for non-EU nationals, offering a pathway to permanent residence in Malta. This program is particularly appealing to high-net-worth individuals and their families.

Benefits:

• Lifetime residency rights for the main applicant and dependents
• Visa-free travel within the Schengen Zone for up to 90 days in a 180-day period
• Attractive tax benefits

Requirements:

• Contribution of €68,000 to the Maltese government
• Investment in government bonds or stocks of €250,000 for at least five years
• Purchase or rental of property in Malta
• Proof of having sufficient financial resources

Process:
Applications are processed through Identity Malta, with thorough background checks and financial evaluations. The process typically takes four to six months.

6. Nomad Residence Permit

Malta’s Nomad Residence Permit is aimed at remote workers and digital nomads who wish to live and work in Malta while being employed by a company outside of Malta. This permit is particularly appealing to those who can work remotely and want to enjoy Malta’s lifestyle.

Benefits:

• Reside in Malta while working for a foreign employer
• Access to Malta’s healthcare and social services

Requirements:

• Proof of employment with a foreign company
• Minimum monthly income of €2,700
• Health insurance covering Malta
• Proof of accommodation in Malta

Process:
Applications can be made online through the Residency Malta Agency, and the permit is initially granted for one year, with the possibility of renewal.

7. Student Residence Permit

For international students who wish to study in Malta, a Student Residence Permit is necessary. This permit allows non-EU/EEA nationals to reside in Malta for the duration of their studies.

Requirements:

• Acceptance letter from a recognized Maltese educational institution
• Proof of sufficient funds to cover living expenses and tuition
• Health insurance
• Proof of accommodation in Malta

Process:
Students must apply for this permit after arriving in Malta, through Identity Malta. The permit is usually issued for one year and is renewable for the duration of the study program.

8. Employment Residence Permit

Non-EU/EEA nationals who secure employment in Malta need an Employment Residence Permit. This permit is tied to the individual’s job, meaning that it is dependent on the continuation of the employment.

Requirements:

• A valid job offer from a Maltese employer
• Proof of qualifications and skills
• Health insurance

Process:
The employer typically initiates the application process through Jobsplus and Identity Malta. The permit is usually valid for one year and is renewable based on continued employment.

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Malta offers a variety of residence permits to suit different needs and circumstances, whether you’re an EU citizen looking for a new place to live, a non-EU national seeking permanent residence, or a digital nomad wanting to experience the Mediterranean lifestyle. Understanding the options and requirements is the first step towards making Malta your new home. With the right permit, you can enjoy all that Malta has to offer—from its rich cultural heritage to its stunning landscapes and welcoming community.