The Local Foreigner

The Status of Long-Term Residence (LTR) under the Third Country Nationals Regulations (S.L. 217.05) in Malta grants eligible individuals the right to reside and work in Malta under more secure and stable conditions. Below is a step-by-step guide to the application process.

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Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for Long-Term Residence (LTR) in Malta, applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Legal Residence: You must have resided legally and continuously in Malta for at least five years before applying. Absences totaling less than six consecutive months or 10 months in total over the five years are generally permissible.
2. Stable Income: You must demonstrate stable and regular financial resources sufficient to maintain yourself and any dependents without resorting to Malta’s social assistance system.
3. Accommodation: Provide proof of suitable accommodation for you and your family members.
4. Health Insurance: Show proof of comprehensive health insurance that covers you and your dependents.
5. Integration: Demonstrate sufficient knowledge of the Maltese language and adherence to Maltese laws and customs.

CHECKLIST FOR A NEW APPLICATION

1. A covering letter explaining:
– the intentions of the applicant to apply for the long-term resident status; and
– the background of the applicant in Malta, including:
– accurate information on the applicant’s first settlement in Malta,
– the nature of the stay throughout the years, and
– the existence of any family members.

2. Chronological list of dates of arrivals and departures from the territory of the European Union;

3. Full copies of the passport/s used in the last five years prior to the submission of the application;

4. Proof of effective residence in Malta for the last five years prior to the submission of the application;

4. Tax declarations of the last two years prior to the submission of the application, confirming that the applicant has stable and regular resources which are equivalent to, at least, the minimum wage in Malta with an addition of another twenty percent of the national minimum wage for each additional member of the family;

5. A certificate by a warranted architect confirming that the applicant’s accommodation is regarded as normal for
a comparable family in Malta and meets the standards established by the Housing Authority.

6. Lease Agreement Professional Attestation Form (provided on Identita’s website) duly filled in and signed by the landlord and a lawyer/ notary/ legal procurator- only required for new applications or if a new address is
registered upon renewal.

7. Lease agreement signed by both landlord and tenant, which must include the full name, ID Card number of landlord, rental address. The name of the tenant must match the name on the passport. If the landlord is not
Maltese, a purchase agreement of the same premises must be presented;

8. A copy of the approval letter issued by the Housing Authority for the registration of property as a rental as per Chapter 604 of the Laws of Malta;

9. Evidence of sickness insurance covering the applicant and all the related family members, or proof of an exemption issued by the Entitlement Unit;

10. Evidence of complete integration measures, specifically:
– I Belong course provided by the Human Rights and Integration Directorate: confirmation of at least 100 hours of attendance and the achievement of an examination pass mark of at least 75%, obtained at most 12 months before the date of application;
– A pass mark of at least 65% in MQF Level 2 Maltese language certificate;
Documentation showing that the relevant course fees have been paid.

A form to fill including full checklist of document find here

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Steps to Apply

1. Preparation: Gather all necessary documents, ensuring they are up to date and meet the specific requirements outlined by Identity Malta.
2. Submit the Application:
   • Apply online in expatriates unit portal under section non-eu applicants
   • Visit Identity Malta offices or mail the completed application form along with the required documents.
   • Pay the application fee (if applicable).
3. Wait for Processing:
   • Identity Malta will evaluate the application, which may involve additional verification, such as interviews or site visits.
   • Processing time can vary but typically takes a few months.
4. Notification of Outcome:
   • If approved, you will receive a residence card confirming your LTR status.
   • If rejected, you may appeal the decision or reapply after addressing the reasons for rejection.

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Benefits of Long-Term Residence Status

1. Residence and Work Rights: LTR status grants the right to reside and work in Malta indefinitely.
2. Family Reunification: Family members may also benefit from more secure residence rights.
3. Mobility: LTR holders can travel to other EU member states for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
4. Access to Services: Greater access to social benefits, education, and healthcare services in Malta.

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Additional Notes

• Integration Measures: To meet integration requirements, some applicants may be required to attend courses or submit additional documentation.
• Legal Assistance: Seek advice from immigration consultants or legal professionals if you encounter challenges during the process.
• Contact Identity Malta: For detailed guidelines, visit Identita official website or contact their offices directly.

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By following these steps, eligible third-country nationals can apply for Long-Term Residence status in Malta and enjoy the stability and rights it offers.