A silver lining from the pandemic for workers has been the ability to work remotely. One exotic location is now luring those remote workers to make their nation their new home office.
The Mediterranean island nation of Malta has launched a nomad residency permit program, giving those who qualify a visa for 1 year to live and work there.
Malta is located between Italy and Northern Africa and is home to a robust expat community. It is set up perfectly for remote workers thanks to a strong telecommunications infrastructure, including nationwide 5G mobile internet service.
“The Nomad Residence Permit enables holders to retain their current employment based in another country while legally residing in Malta,” Residency Malta says on its website. “The permit is open to individuals who can work remotely and independent of location, using telecommunications technologies.”
The program is open to individuals who would normally require a visa to travel to Malta.
“Malta already hosts and welcomes digital nomads from the EU,” Residency Malta says. “This community of entrepreneurial expats makes the most of Malta’s island vibes, a nomad lifestyle, business networking opportunities, and cultural experiences.”
The program is designed to increase visitors to the island while boosting the local economy.
Nomad Permit Qualifications
To qualify for the program, applicants must meet one of three criteria:
- Work for a company registered in a country outside of Malta or have a contract of work.
- Conduct business activities for a company registered in a foreign country of which the applicant is a shareholder or partner.
- Offer freelance or consulting services to clients that are primarily in a foreign country and with whom the applicant has contracts.
Applicants must also have a monthly income of at least 2,700 euros, or about $3,150.
Applicants will need to specify how long they intend to stay in Malta, whether 91 to 180 days or 181 to 365 days. That question will determine the type of visa Malta will issue for the applicant. Those who wish to stay longer than a year can apply for renewal.
In addition, spouses and children of the applicant can apply for the same visa.
Holders of the nomad permit will not be subject to income tax on their earnings, but they will pay a consumption tax like other residents.
Why Malta?
Residency Malta says there are countless reasons why a remote worker would choose to stay in Malta, starting with the island life. With the sea, sun, and sand, Residency Malta says it is the ideal remote working location.
Communication is also a benefit since English is an official language and the language used to do business on the island.
The infrastructure is also in place to allow workers to simply plug and play when it comes to setting up their digital needs.
Malta tourism officials also point out its close proximity to Europe, the Middle East, and Northern Africa, making travel to and from the island easy and convenient. They also point to cultural events, a strong healthcare system, and a variety of dining options are major plusses.
