Malta residence permit

Malta is one of the most attractive countries in Europe for foreign nationals due to its strategic location, favourable climate and stable economy. A residence permit in Malta opens up opportunities for foreigners to legally reside, work, do business and access social services.

Types of residence permits in Malta

1. Temporary Residence Permit
A Temporary Residence Permit is issued to foreigners who intend to stay in Malta for a specified period of time. It is suitable for those coming to Malta for employment, study, business or family reunification.

The main categories of temporary authorisations:

Job: For foreign nationals who have received a job offer from a Maltese employer. An employment contract and work permit are required.
Study: For students enrolled in educational institutions in Malta. Proof of enrolment and proof of financial standing is required.
Family Reunification: For family members of Maltese citizens or foreigners legally residing in Malta.
Entrepreneurship and Investment: For entrepreneurs and investors starting a business in Malta or investing in the Maltese economy.

2. Permanent Residence Permit
A Permanent Residence Permit can be granted to foreigners who have resided in Malta legally for five years. This status provides greater rights and stability, including access to social programmes and the labour market without restrictions.

Requirements for obtaining a residence permit in Malta

A valid passport. The passport must be valid at the time of application and during the entire period of intended stay.
Proof of purpose of stay. Employment contract, invitation to study, business registration documents or proof of family ties.
Financial solvency. Proof of sufficient funds to live in Malta without applying for social assistance.
Health insurance. The insurance must cover all possible medical expenses for the period of stay.
Certificate of criminal record. Confirmation of absence of criminal record in the country of citizenship and other countries where the applicant has lived for more than one year.

Application process for a residence permit

Document Collection. Prepare a complete set of documents that correspond to your basis of residence. All documents must be translated into English and notarised.
Submission of Application. The application shall be submitted to the Identity Malta Agency (Identity Malta) or through a Maltese diplomatic mission abroad.
Review of the application. The review process can take from several weeks to several months depending on the category of the permit and the completeness of the documents submitted.
Obtaining authorisation. Once the application is approved, a plastic card with biometric data is issued, confirming the status of a resident of Malta.

Renewal and renewal of residence permit

A temporary permit must be renewed at the end of its validity period. In order to renew it, an application must be submitted at least two months before the expiry of the current permit, providing updated documents.

Advantages of a residence permit in Malta

The right to work and do business. The opportunity to legally work and develop business in a country with favourable tax conditions.
Access to social and health services. The right to use public services on an equal basis with citizens.
Freedom of movement in the Schengen area. The right to short trips to other Schengen countries without the need to obtain additional visas.

Obtaining a residence permit in Malta is an advantageous step for foreigners wishing to enjoy all the benefits of living and working in one of the most attractive islands in the Mediterranean. Compliance with all requirements and careful preparation of documents will ensure successful completion of the procedure and legal stay in the country.

What is a Malta residence permit?

The Malta Residence Permit is an official document that grants foreign nationals the right to legally reside, work, study and do business in the Republic of Malta. This document is required for anyone planning to stay in the country for more than 90 days and is the basis for long-term integration into Maltese society and economy.

Main types of residence permits in Malta

1. Temporary Residence Permit
A Temporary Residence Permit is issued for a fixed period of time, usually from one year, and is renewable. This type of permit is suitable for foreign nationals coming to Malta for the following reasons:

Employment: for those who have received an offer of employment from a Maltese employer. A contract and work permit are required.
Study: for students enrolled in an educational institution in Malta. Proof of enrolment and funds to cover living and study expenses are required.
Family Reunification: for family members of Maltese citizens or foreigners with a residence permit. Proof of family ties and sufficient funds to support the family are required.
Entrepreneurship and Investment: for those planning to start a business in Malta or invest in the Maltese economy.

2. Permanent Residence Permit
A Permanent Residence Permit is granted to foreign nationals who have resided in Malta legally for five years. This status confers more stable rights and privileges similar to those of citizens, including access to the unrestricted labour market and social programmes.

Functions of a residence permit in Malta

Right to legal residence and work: Holders of a residence permit can legally work in the country, receive education and use public services.
Access to health and social services: A residence permit entitles you to access the health and social security system on an equal basis with Maltese citizens.
Freedom of movement within the Schengen area: A Malta residence permit allows you to travel to other Schengen countries without the need for an additional visa for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Basic requirements for obtaining a residence permit

Valid passport: The passport must be valid for the duration of the intended stay.
Proof of purpose of stay: Employment contract, documents from an educational institution, business plan or proof of family ties.
Financial solvency: The applicant must prove that he/she has sufficient funds to live in Malta without applying for social assistance.
Health insurance: An insurance policy covering all possible medical expenses.
Criminal record certificate: Confirmation that the applicant has no criminal record in the country of citizenship and other countries where the applicant has resided.

The process of obtaining a residence permit

Application: The application must be submitted to the Identity Malta Agency (Identity Malta) or through the Maltese Consulate abroad.
Review: The application process can take from several weeks to several months, depending on the category of permit and the completeness of the documents submitted.
Obtaining authorisation: Once approved, a plastic card with biometric data is issued to prove your residency status.

A residence permit in Malta is not only the basis for legal stay in the country, but also the key to many opportunities including employment, access to education and free movement around Europe. Compliance with all the requirements and the correct application will ensure that your permit is successfully obtained and will open up new horizons for living and working on this Mediterranean island.

How to get a Malta residence permit?

Obtaining a residence permit in Malta is an important step for foreign nationals planning a long-term stay on this Mediterranean island. A residence permit gives access to work, study, business and social services on an equal footing with locals.

Step 1: Determining the type of residence permit

The first step is to choose the right type of residence permit depending on the purpose of your stay in Malta:

A Temporary Residence Permit is suitable for those coming for work, study, family reunification or business. It is usually granted for a period of one year or more, with the possibility of renewal.
The Permanent Residence Permit is available to foreigners who have resided in Malta legally for five years.

Step 2: Gathering the necessary documents

To apply for a residence permit, the following package of documents must be prepared:

A valid passport and copies of all completed pages.
Proof of purpose of stay: employment contract, invitation from an educational institution, documents proving family ties, business plan or other documents proving the grounds for stay.
Proof of financial solvency: bank statements, proof of salary or other documents proving that you have the means to live in Malta.
Health insurance covering the entire period of intended stay in the country.
A certificate of no criminal record obtained in the country of citizenship and other countries where the applicant has lived for more than one year.
Proof of accommodation in Malta: rental agreement or property ownership certificate.

Step 3: Submitting an application

The application for a residence permit shall be submitted to the Identity Malta Agency (Identity Malta) or through a Maltese diplomatic mission abroad. All documents must be translated into English and notarised.

Step 4: Consideration of the application

Once the documents are submitted, the application review process begins. This can take from several weeks to several months depending on the type of permit, completeness and correctness of the data provided. Additional documents or information may be required during the review process.

Step 5: Obtaining a residence permit

Upon approval of the application, the applicant is issued a plastic card with biometric data confirming the status of a resident of Malta. This card entitles the applicant to reside and operate legally in Malta.

Renewal of residence permit

To extend a temporary permit, an application for extension must be submitted in advance, at least two months before the expiry date. Updated documents confirming the continuation of the conditions under which the permit was issued will need to be submitted.

Main aspects to consider

Adhere to filing and renewal deadlines. Incorrect or late renewals may affect your residency status.
Residency compliance. Any violations, such as working without a permit, may result in the cancellation of your residence permit.

Obtaining a residence permit in Malta requires careful preparation of documents and compliance with all the requirements of the migration legislation. Successful completion of all stages ensures the right to reside, work legally and enjoy all the benefits Malta has to offer. Preparation and careful adherence to the instructions will ensure successful completion of the procedure and open up opportunities for successful integration into Maltese society and economy.

Types of Malta residence permit

Malta offers several types of residence permits, each designed for different purposes and categories of foreign nationals. These permits allow you to legally reside, work, study and do business in Malta. The choice of the appropriate type of permit depends on the purpose of stay and future plans.

1. Temporary Residence Permit (Temporary Residence Permit)

Description:
A Temporary Residence Permit is usually issued for a period of one to three years with the possibility of renewal. This type of permit is suitable for foreign nationals who are planning a short or medium term stay in Malta for the following reasons:

Employment: Permit for foreigners who have received an offer of employment from a Maltese employer. To obtain it, you must have an employment contract and a work permit issued by the Identity Malta Agency (Identity Malta).
Study: For students enrolled in educational institutions in Malta. Proof of enrolment and availability of funds to cover tuition and living expenses are required.
Family Reunification: For family members of Maltese citizens or foreigners already in possession of a residence permit. Proof of family ties and sufficient funds to support the family are required.
Entrepreneurship and Investment: For entrepreneurs and investors planning to start a business or invest in the Maltese economy. A business plan and evidence of funds available for investment is required.

2. Permanent Residence Permit (Permanent Residence Permit)

Description:
Permanent Residence Permit is granted to foreigners who have resided in Malta legally for five years. This status provides a more stable position, granting almost the same rights as Maltese citizens, with the exception of the right to vote in elections.

Requirements for Receipt:

Continuous residence in Malta for five years on the basis of a temporary permit.
Proof of financial solvency and stable income sufficient to live without social support.
No criminal record and successful integration into the local community.

3. Highly Qualified Persons Permit (Highly Qualified Persons Permit)

Description:
This is a special authorisation for highly skilled professionals working in key sectors of the economy such as finance, IT, gambling and other high-value industries. The main requirement is a highly skilled labour contract and a salary above a certain threshold.

Benefits:

Reduced tax rates for highly qualified specialists.
Simplified procedure for obtaining and renewing authorisation.

4. Residence permit for pensioners and financially independent persons

Description:
This type of permit is aimed at persons of retirement age and financially independent foreigners who plan to live in Malta without employment.

Requirements:

Proof of a stable income or sufficient savings for living expenses.
Health insurance and availability of accommodation in Malta.

Application procedure for a residence permit

Document Gathering: Prepare all necessary documents translated into English and notarised.
Application: The application must be made at Identity Malta or through a Maltese diplomatic mission abroad.
Review: Depending on the type of permit, the process can take from a few weeks to a few months.
Obtaining authorisation: Once approved, a plastic card with biometric data is issued to confirm your status in Malta.

The choice of the appropriate type of residence permit for Malta depends on individual objectives and circumstances. Knowing the specifics of each type of permit will help you to select and prepare the necessary documents to ensure that you are successful in obtaining residency status. This will open up opportunities for you to live and work in one of the most dynamic and attractive countries in the Mediterranean.

Temporary residence permit in Malta

The Malta Temporary Residence Permit grants foreign nationals the right to stay legally in Malta for a limited period of time. This permit is suitable for those who plan to come to Malta for the purpose of work, study, business or family reunification.

Main categories of temporary residence permits

1. Employment Permit
This permit is granted to foreigners who have received a job offer from a Maltese employer. The main conditions include the existence of an employment contract and confirmation that the position cannot be taken up by EU nationals.

2. Study Permit
This is intended for students enrolled in educational institutions in Malta. The applicant must provide proof of enrolment and proof of financial capacity to cover tuition and living expenses.

3. Family Reunification Permit
This type of permit is suitable for family members of Maltese citizens or foreigners already holding a residence permit. The applicant must prove family ties and financial ability to support the family.

4. Entrepreneur and Investor Permit
This is intended for persons planning to start a business or invest in the Maltese economy. It requires the submission of a business plan, proof of funds and compliance with local regulatory requirements.

Basic requirements for obtaining a temporary residence permit

Valid passport: The passport must be valid for at least six months after the expected expiry date of the permit.
Documents proving the purpose of stay: This can be an employment contract, an invitation to study, family ties or company registration.
Evidence of financial solvency: The applicant must show that they have sufficient funds to live in Malta, including bank statements or proof of income.
Health Insurance: Insurance covering medical expenses for the entire duration of your stay is required.
Criminal record certificate: A document proving that the applicant has no criminal record in the country of citizenship and other countries where the applicant has lived for more than one year.

Application process for a temporary residence permit

Step 1: Collect documents
Gather all necessary documents translated into English and notarised.

Step 2:
Applying The application is made at the Identity Malta
Agency (Identity Malta) or through a Maltese consulate abroad.

Step 3: Review of the application
The review process may take several weeks to several months depending on the category of permit and the completeness of the documents submitted. During this time, additional information or documents may be requested.

Step 4: Obtaining authorisation
Once the application is approved, a plastic card with biometric data is issued to confirm the status of temporary resident in Malta.

Extension of temporary residence permit

To extend a temporary permit, an application for extension must be submitted no later than two months before the expiry of the current permit. The applicant will need to provide updated documents confirming the continuation of the grounds for stay.

Advantages of a temporary residence permit in Malta

Legal residence and work status: The permit entitles you to legally reside and work in the country under the conditions established initially.
Access to education and medicine: Opportunity to study in Malta’s educational institutions and to receive medical services.
Freedom of movement within the Schengen area: The permit allows you to travel within the Schengen countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without additional visas.

A temporary residence permit in Malta offers many opportunities for foreigners wishing to integrate into the economic and social life of the country. It is important to carefully prepare all the necessary documents and follow the procedures to ensure that the authorisation is successfully obtained. This will ensure a legal and comfortable stay in Malta with access to all the benefits offered by this attractive European jurisdiction.

Permanent residence permit in Malta

Permanent Residence Permit in Malta grants foreign nationals the right to reside in Malta for a long period of time with ample opportunities to work, do business and avail of social services. This status is particularly attractive to those who are considering Malta as a place to stay or do business for the long term.

Basic conditions for obtaining a permanent residence permit

Obtaining a permanent residence permit in Malta is possible if the following conditions are met:

Continuous residence in Malta for a period of five years on a temporary residence permit. This period may include breaks for short trips abroad, but the applicant must be resident in the country for the main time.
Financial independence and stable income. The applicant must prove a stable source of income sufficient to support him/herself and his/her family without applying for social assistance.
No criminal record and compliance with laws. Applicants must provide a certificate of no criminal record from their country of citizenship and other countries where they have resided for more than one year, as well as compliance with all local laws and requirements.
Integration into Maltese society. An understanding of Maltese culture and knowledge of one of the official languages (English or Maltese) is welcome.

Documents required to submit an application

To apply for a permanent residence permit in Malta, the following documents must be collected:

Foreign passport and copies of all completed pages.
Proof of continuous residence in the country for the last five years (e.g. rental contracts, utility bills, tax returns).
Documents proving stable income and financial solvency (e.g. labour contracts, bank statements, financial statements for entrepreneurs).
Health insurance confirming that all medical expenses are covered.
A certificate of no criminal record issued by the competent authorities of the country of citizenship and other countries where the applicant has resided.

Application procedure

Document Preparation: All documents must be translated into English and notarised.
Application: The application must be submitted to the Identity Malta Agency (Identity Malta). It is recommended to apply at least two months before the expiry date of the temporary permit.
Application review: The application process can take several months to six months. During this time, checks, interviews and requests for additional documents may be conducted.
Obtaining a permit: Once the application is approved, a plastic card is issued which confirms the status of permanent resident in Malta. This card entitles you to reside and work legally in Malta.

Advantages of a permanent residence permit in Malta

Unrestricted right to work and do business: A permanent permit allows you to work and do business without restrictions, which facilitates long-term integration into the country’s economy.
Access to social and health services: Permanent residents can access all public services, including education and health care, on an equal basis with citizens.
Freedom of movement within the Schengen area: The ability to move freely within the Schengen area for up to 90 days within each 180-day period.
Simplified citizenship procedure: Permanent residence is an important step on the path to naturalisation and citizenship of Malta.

Obtaining a permanent residence permit in Malta offers foreign nationals a wide range of opportunities for work, business and personal development. This status provides stability, legal protection and access to the vast opportunities Malta has to offer. Preparing for the application process requires careful document verification and compliance with all requirements, but success in the process guarantees a long and comfortable stay on this Mediterranean island.

Requirements to apply for a Malta residence permit

Obtaining a residence permit in Malta is an important process for foreign nationals planning a long-term stay in this European country. A residence permit gives foreigners the right to legally reside, work, study and do business in Malta.

Basic requirements for obtaining a residence permit in Malta

Purpose of stay
Applicants must have a clear reason for staying in Malta, whether it be work, study, family reunion or business. Each type of authorisation requires proof of the relevant purpose.
Valid passport
The applicant’s passport must be valid at the time of application and for the duration of the intended stay in Malta. It is recommended that the passport should be valid for at least six months beyond the date of expiry of the authorisation requested.
Financial solvency
Applicants must provide evidence of sufficient funds to live in Malta without having to apply for social assistance. This can be bank statements, salary statements, financial support contracts or proof of business income.
Health Insurance
It is a mandatory requirement to have health insurance that covers all possible medical expenses for the duration of your stay. The insurance must be valid and cover Malta.
Proof of residence in Malta
The applicant must provide proof of accommodation in Malta, such as a rental agreement, a certificate of ownership of the property or a letter of invitation from the accommodation provider.
The applicant must provide a criminal record certificate from his/her country of citizenship and other countries where he/she has resided for more than one year in the last ten years. This requirement is aimed at confirming the applicant’s security clearance.

Specific requirements depending on the type of authorisation

For Employment:
- Confirmation from the employer that there is a contract of employment.
- A work permit issued by the Identity Malta Agency (Identity Malta).
To study:
- A letter of enrolment from a Maltese institution.
- Evidence of financial solvency to cover tuition and living expenses.
For a family reunion:
- Documents confirming family ties (marriage, birth certificates).
- Proof of an income sufficient to support a family in Malta.
For entrepreneurs and investors:
- A business plan confirming the economic feasibility and sustainability of the project.
- Evidence of funds available to invest and do business in Malta.

Application procedure for a residence permit

All documents must be translated into English and notarised. It is important to have a complete set of documents to avoid delays in processing your application.
Application
The application
must be submitted to the Identity Malta
Agency (Identity Malta) or through a Maltese diplomatic mission abroad. It is recommended that you apply in person or through an authorised representative.
Application review
The review process can take from several weeks to several months depending on the type of permit and the complexity of the case. During this period, the migration authorities may request additional documents or information.
Once the application has been approved, the applicant is issued with a plastic card with biometric data confirming the status of a resident of Malta.

The process of obtaining a residence permit in Malta requires careful preparation and compliance with all statutory requirements. Following the correct paperwork and procedures will speed up the process and avoid delays. Compliance with all requirements will ensure that you successfully obtain residency status, opening the door for you to live and work on this vibrant Mediterranean island.

How to apply for a Malta residence permit?

Obtaining a residence permit in Malta is an important step for foreign nationals seeking to legalise their stay on this Mediterranean island. This permit opens up opportunities for work, study, business and access to social services.

Step 1: Determining the type of residence permit

The first step is to determine the type of permit that suits your purpose of stay:

The Temporary Residence Permit is suitable for those planning a short-term stay in Malta for work, study, family reunion or business purposes. It is issued for a period of one year or more with the possibility of renewal.
The Permanent Residence Permit is available to those who have resided in Malta legally for five years and are planning permanent residence.

Step 2: Gathering the necessary documents

To apply for a residence permit, you will need to prepare the following documents:

A valid passport with copies of all completed pages.
Proof of purpose of stay: employment contract, study invitation, family ties or business plan.
Proof of financial solvency: bank statements, proof of salary or other documents proving that you have the means to live in Malta.
Health insurance covering all possible medical expenses for the period of stay.
A certificate of no criminal record obtained in the country of citizenship and other countries where the applicant has lived for more than one year.
Proof of residence in Malta: rental agreement or certificate of ownership of accommodation.

Step 3: Submitting an application

The application for a residence permit is submitted to the Identity Malta Agency (Identity Malta) or through the Maltese Consulate abroad. It is important that all documents are translated into English and notarised.

Step 4: Consideration of the application

Once the application is submitted, the process of its review begins, which may take from several weeks to several months. During the review process, migration authorities may request additional documents or information to verify the authenticity of the submitted data.

Step 5: Obtaining a residence permit

Once the application is approved, the applicant is issued a residence permit in the form of a plastic card with biometric data. This card confirms residency status and entitles the applicant to reside and operate legally in Malta.

Renewal of residence permit

A temporary residence permit must be renewed before it expires. In order to extend it, an application must be submitted at least two months before the expiry of the current permit, providing updated documents confirming the continuation of the grounds for stay.

Main aspects of the application

Adherence to submission and renewal deadlines: Incorrect or late renewal of your permit may affect your residency status.
Compliance with all permit conditions: Any violations, such as working without the appropriate permit, may result in the cancellation of your residence permit and deportation.

Obtaining a residence permit in Malta requires careful preparation of documents and strict adherence to all established procedures. This will ensure that you successfully obtain a permit that will open up opportunities for you to work, study and do business in this attractive European island. By following these steps, you will be able to complete the application process efficiently and without error, ensuring your legal stay in Malta and access to all its benefits.

Residence permits for employment in Malta

A residence permit for employment in Malta is a key document for foreign professionals seeking to work in one of Europe’s most dynamic economies. Malta attracts professionals from all over the world due to its favourable working conditions, competitive salaries and favourable tax environment.

Main types of residence permits for employment

Single Permit
This type of permit is issued to foreigners who have received a job offer from a Maltese employer. It combines both a residence permit and a work permit, allowing the foreigner to reside and work legally in Malta.

Basic Requirements:

Having a signed employment contract with a Maltese employer.
Confirmation that the vacancy cannot be filled by an EU citizen.
Evidence of qualifications and professional experience commensurate with the position.

EU Blue Card
The EU
Blue Card is intended for highly qualified professionals with higher education and a labour contract with a high salary. This permit provides additional rights and facilitates movement within the EU countries.

Basic Requirements:

Advanced degree or significant professional experience.
A contract with a Maltese employer for an amount above a certain salary threshold.
Proof of financial solvency and health insurance.

Residence Permit for Entrepreneurs and Self-Employed Persons
For foreigners planning to set up a business or work as freelancers in Malta. A business plan and proof of funds for the business must be provided.

Basic Requirements:

A business plan confirming the economic feasibility of the project.
Evidence of financial strength and ability to support themselves and the business independently.

Requirements for obtaining a residence permit for employment

Valid passport: The passport must be valid at the time of application and for the duration of the permit.
Labour contract: Confirmation from the employer that an employment contract and work permit are in place.
Evidence of qualifications: Diplomas, certificates and proof of experience relevant to the position.
Financial solvency: Bank statements or other proof of funds for living expenses.
Medical Insurance: Covering the whole period of stay in Malta.
Criminal record certificate: Confirmation that the applicant has no criminal record in the country of citizenship and other countries where the applicant has resided.

The process of applying for an authorisation

Step 1: Prepare documents
Gather all necessary documents translated into English and notarised. Particular attention should be paid to the completeness and correctness of the application form and the availability of all supporting documents.

Step 2: Submission of
the application
The application must be submitted to the Identity Malta
Agency in person or through a Maltese employer. It is also possible to apply through a Maltese diplomatic mission abroad.

Step 3: Review of the application
The review process can take several weeks to several months depending on the type of permit and the completeness of the documents submitted. During this time, additional documents may be requested or interviews may be conducted.

Step 4: Obtaining the permit
Once the application is approved, the applicant receives a plastic card with biometric data which confirms the right to reside and work in Malta.

Renewal of residence permit

The residence and work permit must be renewed before it expires. For renewal, an application for renewal must be submitted in advance with up-to-date documents proving the continuation of the employment relationship.

Advantages of a residence permit for employment in Malta

The right to legal work and residence. The permit provides the opportunity to be officially employed and to participate in the social system of the country.
Access to highly skilled positions and international opportunities. Malta offers a wide range of job opportunities in finance, technology, medicine and other sectors.
Freedom of movement within the Schengen area. Permit holders can travel within Schengen countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Obtaining a residence permit for employment in Malta is a process that requires preparation and strict adherence to all requirements. Successful completion of the procedure allows foreigners not only to work legally in Malta, but also to enjoy all the benefits offered by this dynamic European country.

Residence visa/long stay visa in Malta

Malta, a small country in the Mediterranean Sea, is a popular destination for businesses and individuals looking for attractive business, tax incentives and residency in Europe. One of the key tools that makes Malta so attractive to foreigners is the possibility of obtaining a residency or Long Stay Visa.

1. Types of visas and their purpose

1.1 Residence Visa (Residence Visa)

The Malta Residence Visa allows foreign nationals to reside in Malta for various reasons: employment, business, investment, study, family reunification and others. This type of visa is suitable for those who are planning a long stay in Malta but do not intend to reside in the country permanently.

1.2 Long Stay Visa (Long Stay Visa)

A long-term visa is intended for stays exceeding 90 days and can be issued for a variety of purposes including work, study, research and investment. It is required for non-EU/EEA nationals and can be extended depending on the purpose of stay.

2. Main visa categories and requirements

2.1 Visa for employment

To obtain a work visa, you must have a job offer from a Maltese employer. The basic requirements include:

Confirmation of qualifications and professional experience.
Conclusion of a labour contract with the employer.
A work permit which is issued on the basis of confirmation of a vacancy at the Malta Employment Agency (Jobsplus).
Minimum wage, which varies depending on skill level.

2.2 Business and investment visa

This visa category is for entrepreneurs and investors who intend to develop business in Malta. Requirements include:

Company registration in Malta.
Availability of a business plan that confirms the economic viability of the project.
Investing in the country’s economy (e.g. buying property, investing in local companies).
Ensuring a minimum turnover for the company and creating jobs for local residents.

2.3 Study visa

This visa is suitable for students enrolled in accredited educational institutions in Malta. The basic requirements include:

Confirmation of enrolment in an educational institution.
Sufficient financial resources for living and studying.
An insurance policy covering medical expenses for the period of stay.

3. Submission procedure and required documents

The process of applying for a resident or long-stay visa involves several steps:

Filling in the application form. Fill in the application form with all the necessary information about the purpose of stay, place of residence and source of income.
Document Preparation. It is necessary to provide:
- A foreign passport (valid for at least three months after the end of the visa).
- Confirmation of financial solvency.
- Health insurance covering all expenses in case of illness or accident.
- Proof of residence address in Malta (e.g. rental agreement).
Interview and consular fee. Depending on the type of visa, you may be required to attend an interview at the consulate and pay the appropriate fee.
Waiting for a decision. The application process can take from several weeks to several months, depending on the visa category and the number of documents submitted.

4. Tax aspects of residency in Malta

Living in Malta offers a number of tax advantages, especially for those who become resident but are not domiciled (not fully tax resident). The main tax features are:

No tax on global income. Tax is only payable on income earned in or remitted to Malta.
Tax incentive programmes. Special tax regimes for highly qualified employees and investors.
Low corporate taxes. The corporate tax rate of 35% can be reduced to 5% if the tax is refunded to shareholders.

5. Benefits and risks

Benefits:

Easy access to other EU countries.
Stable political and economic environment.
Attractive conditions for business and investment.
High standard of living and quality medical infrastructure.

Risks:

Complicated and lengthy procedure for obtaining permits.
High competition in the labour market, especially for unskilled workers.
Possible changes in legislation relating to visas and tax regimes.

Malta offers a variety of residency or long-term visa opportunities, making it an attractive destination for businesses, investors and individuals seeking European residency. However, the process of obtaining a visa requires careful preparation of documents and an understanding of all legal and tax aspects. Therefore, it is recommended to seek the assistance of professional consultants who will help to optimise the process and avoid mistakes.

Can you travel with a Malta residence permit?

Malta, located in the centre of the Mediterranean Sea, not only attracts businessmen, investors and skilled professionals, but also provides its residents with unique opportunities to move freely around Europe. Obtaining a residence permit in Malta opens the door to travelling throughout the Schengen area, but there are important nuances to consider.

1. The Maltese residence permit and its legal basis

The Malta Residence Permit is issued to foreign nationals who are legally resident in Malta on the basis of employment, business, investment, study or other reasons. The Malta Residence Permit is a plastic card that certifies the identity, status and rights of a resident in Malta.

Key types of residency include:

Work or Business Residence Permit: Granted to persons employed in Malta, as well as entrepreneurs and investors.
Permanent Residence Permit: Long-term status for persons who are permanently resident in Malta.
E-resident: For remote workers and business owners who are registered in Malta but do not require permanent residence in the country.

2. Right to travel with a Maltese residence permit

2.1 Travelling within the Schengen Area

Malta is a member of the Schengen Agreement, which brings together 27 European countries, allowing free movement between them without internal borders. Holders of a Maltese residence permit are entitled to travel within the Schengen area without the need to obtain additional visas, but there are some restrictions:

Period of stay: You can stay in other Schengen countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This limit applies to all Schengen countries in total, not to each country individually.
Purpose of travel: Travel for tourism, business meetings, short-term training courses and other non-commercial purposes is permitted. A separate authorisation or visa may be required to work or study in another Schengen country.

2.2 Travelling outside the Schengen area

Travelling with a Maltese residence permit outside the Schengen area depends on the visa policy of each individual country. Before travelling, you should check whether a visa is required for your citizenship and residence permit. Some countries may offer simplified visa regimes or visa-free entry for EU residents, but this requires separate research.

3. Border crossing procedure and documents

Maltese residence permit holders need to carry the following documents to cross Schengen borders:

Passport: The validity of the passport must be at least three months after the planned return to Malta.
Maltese residence permit: A plastic card proving your residency status.
Proof of purpose of travel: If necessary, provide a hotel reservation, business meeting invitation or other documents confirming your purpose of stay.
Insurance policy: Health insurance covering medical treatment in Schengen countries may be required at the border.

4. Restrictions and obligations for residents

4.1 Temporary residence restrictions

Travelling to Schengen countries is limited to 90 days within a 180-day period. This period is tracked automatically when crossing borders, so it is important to monitor your movements to avoid fines or entry bans.

4.2 Reporting obligations

Residents of Malta are required to maintain their status by fulfilling certain requirements such as residing in Malta for at least 183 days per year (for tax purposes), filing tax returns and complying with local laws. Frequent and prolonged travelling may result in loss of residency status if the conditions of stay are breached.

5. Tips and advice for travelling with a Maltese residence permit

Plan your trips in advance. Check visa requirements and the validity of your documents before travelling.
Observe the time limits of your stay. Do not exceed the authorised 90 days within 180 days in Schengen countries.
Keep in touch with Malta. Keep records of your travels and ensure that you fulfil your obligations to maintain your residency status.
Consult a lawyer. When planning long journeys or needing to work abroad, consult a lawyer to understand all legal implications.

The Maltese residence permit offers significant advantages for travelling freely in Europe, but requires careful adherence to visa and migration regulations. Knowing the rights and obligations of residents, as well as proper travel planning, will help you avoid unpleasant situations at the border and maintain your status in Malta. For more detailed information and individual advice, it is recommended to contact professional lawyers and consultants specialising in migration law and international travel.