5 Things you should know about the Nomad Residency in Malta.
04 November 2021
The digital nomad lifestyle has become a popular choice amongst young people. Gone are the days when one would have to work nine-to-five from an office space – nowadays, many careers allow for remote working.
Digital nomads can work from coffee shops, public libraries, or even sunny sea-side spots, as long as there is a strong Wi-Fi connection. This makes it easier than ever for employees and freelancers to travel and work at the same time.
The island of Malta has long been an attractive option for digital nomads residing within the EU and the introduction of the NRP means non-EU nationals can now also apply to work remotely from the EU island which averages 300 sunny days per year.
Apart from the favorable climate, Malta is a popular choice because English is one of the island’s official languages, making communication with locals easy. The island is also known for its stunning capital city, Valletta which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, rich cultural history and vibrant nightlife.
The Malta Nomad Residence Permit (NRP) was introduced to create a simple process for non-EU nationals looking to reside and work remotely from Malta.
Here are 5 things you need to know about it:
- The NRP is intended for people from non-EU countries, who may need a Visa to travel to Malta.
The residence permit provides non-EU nationals the right to live on the island whilst being employed outside of Malta. The residence permit also allows non-EU nationals to enjoy Visa-free travel across Schengen, 90 out of 180 days.
- To acquire the NRP, applicants must show that:
- They are able to work remotely, using means of technology.
- They are non-EU nationals
- They have an employment contract with an employer registered abroad,
OR
- They are partners/shareholders of a company registered abroad and perform business activities for the company,
OR
- They offer freelance/consulting services to clients who are permanently set up in a foreign country.
- They have a gross monthly income of at least EUR 2,700.
- They hold a valid travel document.
- They have health insurance that covers any risks in Malta.
- They hold a property rental or purchase contract.
- They can pass a background verification check.
- The NRP lasts for one year and may be renewed if the applicant continues to meet the required criteria.
Should an applicant wish to live in Malta for less than a year, a National Visa valid for 91 – 180 days will instead be provided.
- Family members of the applicant can apply for a residence permit, as long as they are either the applicant’s spouse, minor children, or economically dependent adult children.
For each family member to be able to apply, the main applicant must earn another 20% of Malta’s average wage. There will also be a government application fee of €300 per family member.
- An application is to be submitted along with the required documentation and a government application fee of €300 (and an additional €300 per family member applying).
Once the application and all documentation are sent in, they will be processed within an average of 30 days, after which you will be invited to Malta to pick up your permit.
At AE, our team can guide you through the process, advise according to your specific situation and the relevant Maltese laws, while assisting with any queries you may have for you to get your Nomad Residency Permit processed and approved. Contact us for call back.
Alternatively contact us on +356 2095 8200 or by email on nsb@ae.com.mt