The Parliamentary Secretary for Citizenship and Communities has announced the launch of a new residence programme for non-EU nationals. The programme which will be administered by Residency Malta Agency will be known as the Nomad Residence Permit (NRP). The Malta NRP is aimed at individuals who want to move to Malta whilst working remotely. Announcing the NRP, the Parliamentary Secretary for Citizenship, Alex Muscat held that this could be a profitable economic niche for Malta. This programme enables beneficiaries the right to retain their current employment based in another country whilst legally residing in Malta. The permit is thus open to individuals who can work remotely using telecommunication technologies.
Nomad Residence Permit Eligibility
In order to be eligible under the NRP, applicants must be non-EU nationals and prove that they can work remotely. In addition, applicants must prove that they fall under one the following categories:
- Be employed and registered with a foreign employer and have a contract of work, or
- Conduct business activities for a company registered outside of Malta and of which the applicant is a partner or a shareholder in, or
- Offer freelance or consulting services, mostly to clients whose permanent establishments are in a foreign country, and with whom the applicant has contracts.
An applicant must also reach a monthly income threshold of €2,700 gross of tax. Applicants must also:
- Hold a valid travel document
- Have a Health Insurance covering all risks in Malta
- Hold a valid property rental or purchase agreement
- Pass a Background Verification Check
Nomad Residence Permit Validity
A residence permit issued under this scheme is valid for one year and can be renewed upon application at the discretion of the Residency Malta Agency, as long as the applicant still meets the eligibility criteria. Applicants who are interested in staying in Malta for less than a year will be issued with a National Visa valid for 91-180 days depending on the intention of their duration of stay.
An application under this scheme can be submitted remotely together with supporting documentation and an administrative fee of €300 for the Main Applicant. Once submitted, the Agency and other local authorities will conduct background checks and notify the applicant when the process is completed. If the application is approved, the applicant will be invited to visit Malta to conclude the application. Applications are expected to be processed within 30 days following receipt of all required documentation.
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