Best for budget
United Arab Emirates
Lower monthly income thresholds make this option easier to qualify for financially.
Side-by-side visa comparison
United Arab Emirates vs Malta — Digital Nomad Visa Comparison
United Arab Emirates requires $3,500/month with 12 months stay, while Malta requires $3,850/month with 12 months stay. United Arab Emirates wins on budget.
Budget
United Arab Emirates
Long-term
Tie
Fastest
United Arab Emirates
Feature
United Arab Emirates
Malta
Minimum Income
$3,500/month
$3,850/month
Duration
12 months
12 months
Processing Time
2 weeks
6 weeks
Application Fee
$287
$440
Tax Status
The UAE does not levy personal income tax on salary or freelance income.
Three-phase tax regime: Phase 1 (first 12 months) — income from authorised remote work is exempt from Maltese income tax. Phase 2 (after exemption) — authorised remote work income taxed at flat 10%. Phase 3 — any additional non-remote-work income taxed at standard progressive rates (0%–35%). Registration with Maltese tax authorities is mandatory even during the exemption period.
Dependents
Yes
Yes
Path to Residency
No
No
Path to Citizenship
No
No
Best for long-term
Tie
Longer approved stay periods reduce renewal pressure and support slower relocation plans.
Fastest processing
United Arab Emirates
Shorter processing windows can make this the better pick for near-term travel timelines.
Next step
Check United Arab Emirates eligibility for your nationality
Next step
Check Malta eligibility for your nationality