Malta Ordinary Residence

Eligibility Requirements for Ordinary Residence in Malta

Ordinary Residence is achieved through the application of an e-Residence card and the application of an Income Tax Number together with genuine links with the Republic of Malta. 

There are different grounds on which EU/EEA/Swiss nationals may become ordinarily resident in Malta, which include economic self-sufficiency and employment. In both scenarios, there are certain requirements that one needs to abide by as well as supporting documentation that would need to be produced to the Department upon the submission of the application. 

There are also the possibilities for one to obtain a residence card based on self-employment or else as a student which are less common than the ones mentioned. 

As per the conditions to apply for Ordinary Residency under Self-Sufficiency one must have:

• A valid EEA/EU/ Swiss Passport;

• Bank statements with a minimum balance of €14k and showing a minimum of 3 months in Malta prior to application. The bank balance would need to be a minimum of €23k for any married couples applying.

• Health insurance covering you in Malta

• Property agreement, rental or purchase in Malta – we can assist you find a property in Malta through our sister company Malta Sotheby’s International Realty

Both EU and non-EU individuals who intend to apply as family members of an EU national are required to provide the following accompanying documents:

• A valid Foreign ID card / passport;
• Birth / marriage certificate proving the relationship to the EU national
  • Any Certificates presented must be in English.
  • Certificates must be Apostilled by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs from where the Marriage/Birth Certificate has been registered;
• In the case of family members not being the “spouse or child under 21 years of age”, documentation showing the dependency of the person concerned
  • Examples of such include bank statements showing money being transferred from you to the dependent for expenses, proving that the dependent still lives with the applicant, medical bills which show expenses incurred for medical treatments or prescriptions paid by the parent, signed affidavit etc;
• In the case of partners, documentary proof of the existence of a durable relationship for the 2 years prior to the application.
  • Examples of such include dated photographs, shared bank statements, shared property agreements etc;
• If the EU sponsor is Economically Self Sufficient and/or applicant is applying as ‘partner’, a comprehensive health insurance.

When applying for Malta Ordinary Residence Scheme under Employment, the applicant must provide the following to be considered eligible:

• A valid foreign ID card / passport;
• A signed employment contract or Jobsplus registration certificate issued by Jobsplus;
• Lease/Purchase Agreement.

Property Requirement

In both scenarios, whether one submits an Ordinary Residence application based on self-sufficiency or employment, the individual is required to either purchase or rent immovable property prior to submitting the application. Should one opt for renting a property, the rental period of the agreement should not be less than 6 months. It is worth noting that there is no minimum property value requirement.

Application Process for Malta Ordinary Residence

1. Engage CSB Group as your trusted partner for all things relating to obtaining Maltese Ordinary residency;
2. If applying for Ordinary residency under Employment - sign an employment agreement with a Maltese company;
3. If applying for Ordinary residency under self-sufficiency - spend a minimum of three-months in Malta;
4. Find a residential property through MSIR and sign a lease/purchase agreement;
5. Compile all of the required supporting documentation as per CSB Groups’ official checklists;
6. Collect all the readily filled in forms done by CSB Group as well as certified true copies of all the documents;
7. Attend your biometric appointment at the Identity Malta Agency;
8. Collect your Maltese Residency Card after two to three weeks. 

The issuance of an e-Residence document is free of charge to EU and EEA Nationals.

Benefits of Obtaining Ordinary Residence in Malta

By obtaining a Maltese residency card, you gain access to a plethora of benefits and opportunities that contribute to an enriched and fulfilling lifestyle. Let's delve into the advantages that come with holding a Maltese residency card:

Freedom to Reside

With a Maltese residency card, you have the freedom to live and settle in Malta, a beautiful Mediterranean island known for its picturesque landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Enjoy the pleasant climate, stunning beaches, and the charm of Maltese towns and villages.

Work and Business Opportunities

The residency card opens doors to various work and business opportunities in Malta. Whether you're seeking employment or wish to establish your own venture, having a residency card allows you to participate in the local job market and contribute to Malta's thriving economy.

Access to Healthcare

As a resident cardholder, you can benefit from Malta's high-quality healthcare system. Access comprehensive medical services and receive top-notch care from skilled professionals, ensuring your well-being and peace of mind.

Education and Research

Malta offers a diverse range of educational institutions, from primary schools to renowned universities. With a residency card, you can access educational opportunities for yourself and your family, including quality education at all levels and opportunities for academic and research pursuits.

Travel and Exploration

Holding a Maltese residency card grants you the ability to explore the Schengen Area without the need for additional visas. Take advantage of Malta's strategic location and discover the wonders of Europe, visiting neighboring countries and immersing yourself in different cultures and traditions.

Cultural Immersion

Immerse yourself in Malta's rich history, culture, and traditions. Attend local festivals, explore ancient sites, and indulge in traditional cuisine. Being a resident cardholder allows you to fully embrace and experience the Maltese way of life.

Community and Networking

Connect with a vibrant and diverse community of fellow residents, expatriates, and locals. Engage in social events, join clubs and organizations, and build lasting friendships, creating a sense of belonging and support.

Legal Rights and Protection

Holding a Maltese residency card provides you with legal rights and protections under Maltese law. Enjoy the security and peace of mind that comes with being recognised as a lawful resident, ensuring your interests are safeguarded.

Integration and Language Acquisition

Living in Malta with a residency card allows you to integrate into the local community more easily. Immerse yourself in the Maltese language, customs, and way of life, fostering deeper connections and understanding.

Long-Term Stability

Obtaining a Maltese residency card paves the way for long-term stability and future possibilities. It lays the foundation for potential pathways to citizenship and opens up a range of opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Renewal of the e-Residence Card under the Ordinary Residence Scheme

Renewing your Maltese residency card is a straightforward process that ensures you can continue to relish the privileges that come with being a resident. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the renewal process:

1. Know the Timeline: It's crucial to be aware of the expiry date of your current residency card. Start the renewal process well in advance to avoid any disruptions to your resident status.
2. Gather Required Documents: Collect all the necessary documents for the renewal application. This includes a completed application form, a valid passport, proof of address, and a renewed health insurance policy.
3. Book and attend the biometric appointment at the Identity Malta Agency in Msida.  Your fingerprints and photograph will be re-captured for identification purposes.
4. Await Processing: After your appointment, the authorities will review your renewal request. This typically involves verifying the provided documents and conducting any necessary background checks.
5. Collect Card: Once your application has been processed, you will be notified to collect your renewed residency card.
6. Update Details if Necessary: If there have been any changes to your personal information, such as address or contact details, ensure that you update them with the relevant authorities to keep your records accurate and up to date.

Remember, it's important to initiate the renewal process in a timely manner to avoid any lapses in your residency status. Stay organized, follow the instructions provided by the authorities, and keep copies of all submitted documents for your records.

How can we help?

With over 35 years of experience in the corporate and financial services industry in Malta, CSB Group is committed to providing top-notch services to Private Clients worldwide. CSB Group, has been providing Investment immigration services to High-Net-Worth families since the inception of these programmes.

We can assist you with your eResidence card application, filing of taxes and assisting you with the Real Estate side thanks to the Malta Sotheby’s International Realty brand, which falls under CSB Group umbrella.