Visas for Malta

Malta is a Schengen member state, which means that citizens from a number of countries can enter for short stays without having to apply for a visa. Those who require a Schengen visa to enter Malta will need to fill in a visa application from a diplomatic mission or official website and submit the required documents and biometrics.

Tourist visas for Malta

Expats from non-Schengen countries who want to visit Malta will need to enter the country to obtain a tourist visa.

Tourist visas are valid for one or multiple entries of up to 90 days during a 180-day period. To apply, proof of travel insurance, adequate funds and onward travel must be submitted along with a letter of invitation. Applicants will also need to show evidence of where they will be staying during their visit, either in the form of a booking for short-term accommodation or written confirmation of staying with a personal acquaintance.

Residence permits for Malta

To stay in Malta for longer than 90 days, a residence permit is required. The Maltese residence permit comes in the form of an e-Residence document which functions as a form of identification. Once an initial application is submitted, expats must attend an appointment at the Expatriates Unit at Identity Malta in person to submit original documents.

There are two types of residence permits: the Ordinary Residence Permit and the Permanent Residence Permit. The main difference between the two permits is the different tax obligations they incur.

Permanent Residence Permits are open to any nationality and are renewable once every five years. Holders of this permit pay a flat income-tax rate of 15 percent. Ordinary Residence Permits are open to EU citizens only and are renewable annually. Expats on this permit pay income tax on a sliding scale from 0 to 35 percent.

Work permits in Malta, known as Single Permits, also function as residence permits, so expats only need to make one application to gain the right to both work and live in Malta.

*Visa requirements can change at short notice and expats are advised to contact their nearest Maltese consulate for the latest information.