The Mediterranean archipelago of Malta has recently opened applications for remote workers and digital nomads to apply for a year-long visa to live and work in the country. Called the Nomad Residence Permit, it is open to those who live outside of EU countries, such as the United States, providing that they are fully vaccinated and work for a company that is based outside of Malta.
The global pandemic hasnât just changed the way we travel, but the way in which many of us do work too. Maltaâs new digital nomad permit will allow travelers to combine both work and travel seamlessly, with island views that are sure to beat those of your living room or your home office. Hereâs everything you need to know about the Nomad Resident Permit, including who is eligible, plus a look at the Covid-19 situation in Malta.
Nomad Residence Permit â What Travelers Should Know
With many who were forced to work from home now finding that it was preferable to enduring a long commute to work in a boring office, many are now reassessing their working situations and finding that living and working abroad has become a more realistic prospect than they may have once considered. With work permits usually a stumbling block for many, the Nomad Residence Permits removes the underlying fear and worry thatâs usually in the back of a digital nomadâs mind.
The opportunity to live and work in Malta is accessible for a wide group of travelers. According to Maltaâs official website for the new permit, those who are eligible for the Nomad Residence Permit are third-country nationals â meaning those who are not from an EU member state or a country whose citizens do not enjoy the European Union right to free movement â who can prove that they can work remotely using telecoms and earn a gross monthly income threshold of EUR 2,700. The permit can last for up to a year, with the possibility of extension.
In addition to the above, applicants must also 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.
In addition to meeting the work-related criteria for the permit, applicants must be fully vaccinated, as well as the following:
- hold a valid travel document;
- have health insurance covering risks in Malta;
- hold of a valid property rental or purchase agreement; and
- pass a background verification check
Talking up Maltaâs new scheme, Charles Mizzi â the CEO of Residency Malta, said:
âMalta has jumped on the bandwagon of increased demand for remote working globally, as the pandemic shifted goalposts and new trends are being set. Individuals who can work remotely using technology and entrepreneurs with a flair for traveling and discovering new countries and cultures are being made welcome. If there are any lessons learnt from the pandemic is that people are willing to move more than ever before.â
An English-speaking archipelago in the heart of Europe full of history, charm and natural wonder â with mobile and broadband internet speeds coming in at 30th and 35 in the world â Malta has everything a digital nomad could need. The country is also reporting very low Covid-19 cases at present, with a daily average over the last 7 days of just 16, giving travelers who apply peace of mind. Applications are made via email, information about which can be found here.
