Malta Approves 180 Digital Nomad Visa Applications

In a Press Release issued by the Parliamentary Secretariat For Citizenship And Communities, it has been confirmed that Malta is welcoming a steady flow of digital nomads.

Malta launched its own version of a Digital Nomad visa in June 2021, officially referred to as the Malta Nomad Residence Permit, or MNRP. Successful applicants enjoy the right to reside in and work remotely from Malta for the validity of their permit, whilst also benefitting from visa-free access to the other 25 Schengen states for up to 90 out of every 180 days. Applicants may also opt to include their dependant family members.

Parliamentary Secretary for Citizenship and Communities, Hon. Alex Muscat acknowledged that “[p]eople are embracing a new way of working remotely, and Malta wanted to jump at this opportunity to welcome digital nomads from third countries."

Official figures indicate that Malta’s offer to digital nomads has turned out to be a success, with 180 applications being approved since the MNRP launch, equivalent to an average of 1 approved Digital Nomad visa every working day. Furthermore, based on the volume of queries received by the Residency Malta Agency, a significant increase in numbers is expected as international travel restrictions subside.

Below are some interesting key figures that have also been officially released:

• The majority of  applicants are from the USA and the UK;

• The average applicant is male and 37 years of age;

•  Popular sectors are IT, Management, and Marketing;

• 49% of Applicants are employed, 42% are self-employed and 2% are freelancers.

It goes without saying that the ongoing efforts to attract this type of quality talent to Malta will reap positive benefits to the local economy. Mr. Charles Mizzi, CEO of Residency Malta commented on this by saying that “[w]ith a significant average income of €60,000 and applicants who overwhelming have a degree, Malta is attracting quality applicants who are able to contribute to the local economy”.

In order to be eligible, applicants must be non-EU individuals having a gross monthly income threshold of EUR 2,700. They should work for an employer registered abroad, conduct business activities for a company registered abroad (e.g. partner or shareholder), or offer freelance or consulting services to clients abroad. Other requirements include a valid travel document, health insurance coverage, proof of address, and passing a background verification check.

If you are interested in applying for a Malta Nomad Residence Permit, click here to complete a free eligibility application.

The official press release published by the Malta Department of Information may be viewed here.