Personalized route for United Arab Emirates citizens

Malta Digital Nomad Visa for United Arab Emirates Citizens

United Arab Emirates citizens can apply for Malta's digital nomad visa with a minimum income of $3,850/month, 12 months stay, and 6 weeks processing. Additional documents may be required for United Arab Emirates applicants.

Eligible

As a United Arab Emirates citizen, you apply under the non-EU/EEA pathway for Malta's digital nomad visa. UAE citizens should check specific documentation requirements with the nearest Malta consulate.

Quick facts

Income

$3,850/month

Duration

12 months

Processing

6 weeks

Fee

$440

Tax

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

Required documents

Use this checklist to prepare the core documents for your application.

Additional documents for United Arab Emirates citizens

Criminal background check from your country of residence. Proof of health insurance valid in the destination country.

Background check Required

Police conduct certificate for all applicants aged 18+, original and <6 months old. Must be from national/federal authorities, translated to English if needed.

Employment proof Required

For employees: employment contract showing remote work + bank statements showing salary. For self-employed: certificate of incorporation + bank statements. For freelancers: client contracts showing duties and payment rate.

Health insurance Required

Comprehensive health insurance (not travel insurance) covering EU including Malta and UK, valid for 1 full year plus validity of residency card.

Passport Required

International passport — copy of ALL pages including blank pages, for each applicant.

Proof of accommodation Required

12-month rental or purchase agreement in Malta. Submitted after Approval in Principle is received.

Proof of income Required

Bank statements for the last 3 months showing €3,500/month income. Must demonstrate guaranteed income source for minimum 5 months (≈€17,500 cumulative).

Tax implications summary

A quick read on the local tax treatment before you commit.

Current tax status

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.

Tax treatment varies by stay length and income source, so confirm the latest local guidance before applying.

Residency outlook

There is no direct path to permanent residency listed for this visa.

Application steps timeline

A clear sequence from preparation to application submission.

1

Prepare documentation

Collect all required documents per the official checklist: passport (all pages), police conduct certificate, employment/self-employment proof, 3 months bank statements, CV, and motivation letter.

2

Submit online application

Complete the application through the Residency Malta Agency online portal at nomad.residencymalta.gov.mt. Upload all PDF documents.

3

Pay the €300 non-refundable fee

Bank transfer directly from the Main Applicant's own bank account to Residency Malta Agency. Processing begins only after Finance confirms receipt (~30 working days from this point).

4

Receive Approval in Principle

If successful, submit proof of accommodation (12-month lease) AND health insurance policy within 30 working days. The Agency then issues a Letter of Final Approval.

5

Enter Malta and complete biometrics

If you require an entry visa, the Central Visa Unit at Identità will contact you. Once in Malta, email to schedule a biometrics appointment. Pay the €100 residence card fee in person (card payment only).

6

Receive residence card

Card is issued within 3–4 weeks after biometrics. Collect in person from Residency Malta offices with your passport.

Other countries for United Arab Emirates citizens

Costa Rica

Estancia para Trabajadores Remotos

Eligible
$3,000/month 12 months
Check Eligibility

Frequently asked questions

Can United Arab Emirates citizens apply for Malta Digital Nomad Visa?

Yes. United Arab Emirates citizens are currently eligible to apply for the Malta digital nomad visa.

What is the minimum income for Malta Digital Nomad Visa?

The minimum income is $3,850/month based on the current program data.

How long does it take to process?

Processing currently takes about 6 weeks, although embassy workloads can change timelines.

Are there United Arab Emirates-specific document requirements?

Criminal background check from your country of residence. Proof of health insurance valid in the destination country.

Can I bring dependents?

Yes. This program allows dependents.

Is there a path to permanent residency?

There is no direct path to permanent residency listed for this visa.

Related Guides