Residence in Malta: permits and requirements
Living legally in Malta is possible through 6 permit types: work, family, permanent, investment, study, international protection. Each program has its own requirements; below are the duration, renewal, costs and documentation according to the country's official sources.
Residence Permit for Work
Residence type #1 of 6
Residence permit for third-country workers employed in Malta, generally tied to an employment licence (work permit)
Requirements
- Employment licence (single permit) approved by Jobsplus
- Work contract with a Maltese employer
- Health insurance
- Suitable accommodation according to Maltese regulations
- No serious criminal record
Documentation
- Valid passport
- Jobsplus employment licence
- Work contract
- Proof of accommodation (lease contract meeting the standard)
- Health insurance
- Identity photos
- Identity Malta application form
Frequently asked questions about residence in Malta
How many types of residence permits are there in Malta?
Malta offers 6 residence permit types, grouped into the categories work, family, permanent, investment, study, international protection. Each permit has its own requirements, duration and documentation, detailed in this fact sheet according to the country's official sources.
How long do residence permits in Malta last?
Durations vary by permit type: Usually 1 year (some cases 2-3 years), tied to the employment, employer and duration printed on the card (renewable); At least 1 year renewable, not exceeding the sponsor's permit validity; spouse autonomous permit after 5 years; Permanent status (after 5 years); card issued for 5 years, renewable; Permanent (card renewed every 5 years). The exact details of each type appear in the corresponding fact sheet.
Can residence permits in Malta be renewed?
Yes. All residence permit types of Malta (6 in total) are renewable before their expiration, according to the rules of each program.
What documentation is usually required to reside in Malta?
Although each permit requires its own file, the most recurrent documents are: Identity photos; Formulario de solicitud; Seguro médico; Valid passport. The complete list by residence type appears in each fact sheet, together with the corresponding official link.
Does residence in Malta lead to nationality?
Yes, through the Naturalization by residence pathway, which requires 12 months of residence immediately before applying + ≥4 years of aggregate residence in the preceding 6 years (art. 10(1)). The complete requirements are in the nationality fact sheet of Malta.
Residence and nationality updates
Subscribe to know when a country changes its residence or nationality routes. One email, only when there is news.
Anything to correct or add about Malta?
If you have spotted incorrect or outdated information, or want to suggest additional details about residence pathways in Malta, leave us your comment. We review every one personally.