Malta Digital Nomad Visa: The [2024 Updated Guide] Inside!

Ever thought about working with a view of Malta’s lovely beaches? If you’re a freelancer, remote worker, or digital nomad, here’s some good news. Malta has a special visa just for you! It’s called the Malta Digital Nomad Visa. Swap your regular desk for a Maltese café or beachside spot. Curious? Let’s dive in and learn more!

Does Malta Offer A Digital Nomad Visa?

Yes, Malta offers a Digital Nomad Visa specifically designed for freelancers, remote workers, and digital nomads, allowing them to live and work from Malta legally.

Why Choose Malta as a Digital Nomad Destination?

Malta is a top choice for digital nomads due to its warm climate, English-speaking population, rich history, and scenic beauty. The island boasts reliable internet connectivity, a safe environment, and an affordable cost of living compared to other European destinations. With its blend of cultures, delicious cuisine, and array of outdoor activities, Malta offers a unique mix of work and leisure opportunities for the remote-working community.

Who Is Eligible For Malta’s Digital Nomad Visa?

For Malta’s Digital Nomad Visa, eligible individuals are freelancers, remote workers, and digital nomads who can prove they work for a foreign employer or run their own business outside of Malta.

What Are The Requirements For A Malta Digital Nomad Visa?

To get the Malta Digital Nomad Visa, you need to work for a company outside Malta or have your own foreign business. You also must earn a certain amount every month, have health insurance, and rent a place in Malta while you’re there.

How Much Income Do You Need To Acquire A Malta Digital Nomad Visa?

To get the Malta Digital Nomad Visa, you must demonstrate a monthly income of at least €2,700. This requirement ensures that digital nomads can comfortably sustain their stay while embracing Malta’s vibrant lifestyle.

Can I Bring My Family With Me On The Malta Digital Nomad Visa?

Yes, you can bring your family with you on the Malta Digital Nomad Visa, but they might need to meet specific requirements or apply for separate dependent visas.

How Long Is The Validity Of The Malta Digital Nomad Visa?

The Malta Digital Nomad Visa is valid for one year, but it can be extended.

Am I Allowed To Work Locally In Malta While On A Digital Nomad Visa?

No, while on the Malta Digital Nomad Visa, you’re only permitted to work for foreign employers or your own foreign-based business, not for local Maltese companies.

Can The Malta Digital Nomad Visa Be Converted Into A Work Visa?

No, the Malta Digital Nomad Visa is distinct from a work visa and cannot be directly converted into one. If you wants to work locally in Malta, you’d need to apply for a separate work visa or permit.

What Is The Procedure For The Malta Digital Nomad Visa?

To secure the Malta Digital Nomad Visa, start by filling out the application form. Along with this, you’ll need to provide evidence that you’re either working for a foreign company or running your own business outside Malta. Make sure to show that your monthly earnings are at least €2,700 and that you have valid health insurance. After gathering all these documents, you’ll finish up by paying the application fee. Once everything’s in place, you can submit your application for review.

Is An Interview Required For The Malta Digital Nomad Visa?

No, an interview is not typically required for the Malta Digital Nomad Visa application. However, the authorities may request one if they deem it necessary.

Can I Get A Malta Visa Without IELTS?

Yes, you can apply for a Malta visa without an IELTS score. The Malta Digital Nomad Visa, for instance, doesn’t require IELTS. However, specific visa types or programs might have language requirements.

What Is The Required Bank Balance For The Malta Digital Nomad Visa?

The Malta Digital Nomad Visa requires applicants to show a monthly income of at least €2,700. While there isn’t a specific bank balance mandated, it’s essential to have sufficient funds to support your stay in Malta and fulfill the visa’s income requirements.

What Is The Fee For The Malta Visa?

The fee for the Malta Digital Nomad Visa is €80. However, for the most up-to-date information on visa costs, it’s always a good idea to consult Malta’s official immigration or visa website.

What Is The Processing Time For The Malta Visa?

The processing time for the Malta Digital Nomad Visa typically ranges from a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on the volume of applications and any additional documentation required.

How To Avoid Malta Visa Rejection?

To avoid Malta visa rejection, fill out your application accurately, provide clear and complete documents, meet the income requirements, and ensure you have valid health insurance. Honesty throughout the process is crucial, as discrepancies can cause setbacks or denials.

Can I Open A Bank Account In Malta As A Digital Nomad?

Yes, as a digital nomad with a Malta Digital Nomad Visa, you can open a bank account in Malta. However, banks might ask for specific documents and proof of residence in Malta before setting up the account.

What Is The Cost Of Living In Malta For Digital Nomads?

The cost of living for digital nomads in Malta varies based on lifestyle, but on average, you can expect to spend between €1,200 to €2,500 per month. This includes rent, food, transportation, and other daily expenses.

What Career Options Are Available In Malta For Digital Nomads?

In Malta, digital nomads typically continue their existing remote jobs or freelance projects. Popular fields include tech roles like web development and programming, digital marketing, content writing, graphic design, and consultancy services. Remember, the Malta Digital Nomad Visa requires work with foreign companies, so local employment isn’t an option on this visa.

What Are The Best Cities In Malta For Digital Nomads?

For digital nomads looking to explore Malta, several cities stand out for their blend of history, modern amenities, and welcoming vibe. Here are some top picks:

Valletta: The capital city boasts rich history, beautiful architecture, and numerous coworking spaces. It’s a compact city with cafes, shops, and breathtaking sea views, making it great for those who love urban life.
Sliema: Known for its modern vibe, shopping areas, and seafront promenade, it’s popular among expats and has plenty of cafes which are perfect for working.
St. Julian’s: This city is a mix of nightlife, beaches, and businesses. The area called Paceville in St. Julian’s is known for its vibrant nightlife.
Mdina: The ancient, silent city offers a serene environment with medieval charm. It might appeal to nomads who prefer a quieter atmosphere while working.
Gozo: Though not a city, this island near Malta is perfect for those looking for a more relaxed pace, natural beauty, and smaller crowds. Cities like Victoria in Gozo can be great places to work from.

What Are The Best Cafes In Malta For Digital Nomads?

Malta offers a range of cafes that are conducive for digital nomads seeking a pleasant environment to work in. Here are some popular ones:

Café Jubilee (Valletta, Gżira, and Gozo): Known for its quirky interiors and cozy ambiance, it’s a great spot to settle in with a laptop. Their menu has a mix of Maltese and international dishes.
Lot Sixty One (Valletta): A coffee lover’s haven, this spot roasts its beans and offers a perfect atmosphere for work, especially if you appreciate the aroma of freshly brewed coffee.
Dolci Peccati (Sliema): An Italian café with delightful pastries and robust coffee. The environment is calm, making it ideal for focused work.
Piadina Caffe (Sliema): A comfortable and spacious place to work, known for its Italian sandwiches and great coffee.
Café Cuba (Sliema and St. Julian’s): Both locations offer a warm ambiance, fast Wi-Fi, and a menu filled with diverse options to suit all tastes.
Fontanella Tea Garden (Mdina): While it’s most famous for its cakes and the picturesque view of Malta, it’s also a relaxing place to work, especially in the mornings.
Black Sheep (Sliema): A café that seamlessly blends a relaxed atmosphere with artisanal coffee, making it a favored spot for many remote workers.

Remember, the popularity of cafes can mean they get crowded, especially during peak times. So, if you’re planning a work session, consider visiting during off-peak hours for the best experience.

What are the Similarities and Differences Between the Mexico and Malta Digital Nomad Visas?

The mexico visa for digital nomads and the Malta digital nomad visa share similarities and differences. Both visas allow remote workers to reside in these countries for an extended period, but they differ in terms of eligibility criteria, application process, and benefits. While Mexico offers a more accessible and affordable option, Malta provides a more regulated and established program for digital nomads.

What Are The Best Co-Working Spaces In Malta For Digital Nomads?

Here are some of the best co-working spaces in Malta:

SOHO Office Space (St. Julian’s): Located in the heart of Malta’s entertainment district, SOHO offers both private offices and shared working spaces. They have modern amenities, event spaces, and 24/7 access for members.
Regus (Swatar & St. Julian’s): A globally recognized brand, Regus in Malta offers flexible office solutions, meeting rooms, and collaborative spaces.
The Hub (Zabbar): A space that promotes creativity and collaboration. They have a variety of working spaces, event areas, and frequently host workshops.
Workspace 4U (Mosta): Catering to freelancers, entrepreneurs, and startups, this space offers a modern working environment with dedicated desks, private offices, and meeting rooms.
The Hive (St. Venera): A spacious co-working venue that provides a mix of open desks and private spaces. They also host business-related events and workshops.
Microsoft Innovation Centre (Skyparks, Luqa): While more of an incubator, this space often holds events and workshops and has facilities that can be utilized by digital professionals.
Grand Central (Zebbug): Offers shared spaces, private offices, and even virtual office services. They focus on creating a community-driven environment.

Each space has its own unique vibe, amenities, and community, so it’s worth visiting a few to find the one that aligns best with your working style and needs.

10 Must-Try Malta Dishes For Digital Nomads

Maltese cuisine is a delightful blend of Mediterranean flavors with influences from Italy, North Africa, and the Middle East. Here are ten must-try dishes for digital nomads in Malta:

Pastizzi: These are delicious, flaky pastry pockets filled with either ricotta cheese or mushy peas. They’re a popular snack and incredibly affordable.
Stuffat tal-Fenek: A traditional Maltese rabbit stew, slow-cooked with red wine, garlic, and herbs. It’s often considered the national dish.
Ħobż biż-Żejt: A Maltese bread snack. It’s typically a round of crusty bread smeared with tomato paste, olive oil, tuna, capers, and sometimes onions or beans.
Bragioli: Beef olives made by wrapping thin slices of beef around a mix of bacon, egg, and bread crumbs, then slow-cooked in a wine and tomato sauce.
Kapunata: Malta’s answer to ratatouille. It’s a vegetable dish primarily made with bell peppers, tomatoes, and aubergines, similar to the Sicilian ‘caponata’.
Gbejniet: Small, round cheeselets made from sheep or goat’s milk. They can be served fresh, dried, or peppered.
Qassatat: Savory pastries are typically filled with ricotta, peas, or spinach.
Aljotta: A flavorsome fish soup made with tomatoes, garlic, and plenty of herbs, perfect for the island’s climate.
Torta tal-Lampuki: A pie filled with lampuki (a type of fish commonly found around the Maltese islands), spinach, cauliflower, and other ingredients.
Imqarrun il-Forn: A baked macaroni dish combined with minced meat, eggs, and a rich tomato sauce, then topped with a layer of bèchamel and baked until golden.

Trying these dishes will give digital nomads a delightful and authentic taste of Malta’s culinary landscape!

Top 10 Delicious And Popular Fruits In Malta

Here are the top 10 fruits that are popular and can be found in Malta:

Bajtar tax-Xewk (Prickly Pears): These are fruits from the cactus plant and are particularly refreshing during Malta’s hot summers.
Għawżi (Pomegranates): Deep red, juicy, and packed with seeds, these are loved for their sweet and slightly tart flavor.
Figs: Fresh figs are abundant, especially in late summer. They’re sweet with a slightly chewy flesh, smooth skin, and crunchy seeds.
Nespli (Loquats): These small, tangy, and sweet fruits are orange-yellow and are usually eaten fresh.
Lemons and Oranges: Malta’s citrus fruits are particularly juicy and flavorful. The “Lumi ta’ Malta” is a local variety of bitter oranges.
Grapes: Locally grown grapes, both for eating and winemaking, are widely consumed. The Maltese climate is perfect for vineyards.
Ġellieqa (Carob): The carob tree produces long, brown pods that are ground into carob powder, a cocoa powder alternative. Though not eaten raw often, it’s a traditional fruit.
Mulberries: These berries are not only delicious but also historically significant, particularly associated with the old capital of Mdina.
Almonds: While technically a seed of the fruit, almonds are cultivated extensively in Malta, and their sweet and slightly bitter varieties are both popular.
Peaches and Nectarines: Grown in the more fertile parts of the island, these juicy fruits are summer favorites.

Malta Digital Nomad Visa