Residency Malta Agency, together with Identity Malta launched a new residence programme in Malta called the Nomad Residence Permit. The purpose of this new programme is to offer third country nationals the opportunity to work remotely from Malta for a temporary period in line with EC Regulation No 810/2009 (Visa Code) and the Malta Immigration Act. A Nomad Residence Permit will be issued for one year and can be renewed upon application at the discretion of Residency Malta, as long as the applicant still meets the set eligibility criteria.
The Nomad Residence Permit enables holders to retain their current employment based in another country whilst legally residing in Malta. The Permit is open to individuals who can work remotely and independent of location, using telecommunications technologies.
Eligibility
Applicants must prove they can work remotely, using telecoms. Applicants must also be third country nationals.
In addition, applicants must prove they fall under any one of the following 3 categories:
- work for an employer registered in a foreign country and have a contract of work;
- conduct business activities for a company registered in a foreign country and of which applicant is partner/shareholder; or
- offer freelance or consulting services, mostly to clients whose permanent establishments are in a foreign country, and with whom the applicant has contracts.
Applicants must also hold:
- a valid travel document;
- have health insurance covering risks in Malta;
- hold a valid property rental or purchase agreement; and
- pass a background verification check;
- standard rules and procedures for obtaining visas and similar permits apply, in addition to the proof of eligibility.
Moreover, an applicant must reach a gross monthly income threshold of EUR 2,700. Additional eligible family members will have thresholds as stipulated by Agency Policy.
Family members will also be considered. An applicant’s spouse, minor children, and adult children unable to cope independently due to a medical condition or disability and also those who are economically dependent on the main applicant may apply for a Permit under the same conditions as the Nomad Residence Permit holder together with the main applicant. Decisions on spousal Visas/Permits will be made on a case by case basis.
The application fee is €300 for main applicant and €300 for each dependant on the application. The application process takes up to 30 days following receipt of all required documentation.
The Nomad Residence Permit holders is a visa program not a tax one and normal tax rules will apply. Applicants interested in staying for less than a year will be issued with a National Visa valid between 91-180 days, whilst those with the intention to stay 181-365 days – will be issued with Nomad Residence permit. Different tax implications may apply.
At EMCS we can assist you with tax advice so you can understand if this is the right programme for you, the application process of the visa and compliance required.
