Registration Authority: Identitá
In Malta, the administrative process for foreign residents is managed by Identitá (formerly known as Identity Malta Agency). All foreign nationals who plan to reside in the country for more than 90 days must apply for an e-Residence card. This document serves as both a proof of residence and an identification card for local administrative procedures. The registration process and specific requirements vary based on the applicant's nationality and the purpose of their stay.
EU, EEA, and Swiss Nationals
Citizens of the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), and Switzerland benefit from the right of freedom of movement. However, if staying for longer than three months, they are required to register with the Expatriates Unit. Registration for this group is generally based on employment, self-employment, study, or economic self-sufficiency.
- Cost: The initial issuance of the e-Residence document is free of charge for EU/EEA and Swiss nationals.
- Replacements: A fee of 16.50 EUR ($17.33 USD, Jan 2026) applies for replacing a damaged card, while a lost card replacement costs 22 EUR ($23.10 USD, Jan 2026).
- Validity: Cards are typically issued for a period of five years.
Third-Country Nationals (TCNs)
For non-EU citizens, the most common registration route is the Single Permit, which combines work and residence authorization. As of 2025 and 2026, the Maltese government has updated the fee structure to encourage employee retention and streamline the labor market.
- First-Time Single Permit: The application fee is 600 EUR ($630 USD, Jan 2026). This is often paid by the employer or the employee depending on the contract agreement.
- Renewal: Renewing a single permit costs 150 EUR ($157.50 USD, Jan 2026) per year.
- Change of Employer: If a TCN changes their place of employment, a new application fee of 600 EUR ($630 USD, Jan 2026) is required.
- Special Categories: Some sectors, such as health and social care, may benefit from reduced or prioritized fee structures.
Applications for TCNs must generally be submitted through the Identitá Expatriates Portal by the employer on behalf of the prospective employee.
Mandatory Requirements and Documents
Regardless of nationality, all applicants must satisfy specific administrative criteria to verify their presence in Malta. Failure to provide registered documentation can lead to a rejection of the residence application.
Address Registration
Applicants must provide proof of a residential address. Since 2020, it is mandatory for all rental agreements in Malta to be registered with the Housing Authority. An application for a residence card will only be processed if the applicant provides a lease agreement that has been officially registered at rentregistration.mt.
Health Insurance
TCNs are generally required to have comprehensive private health insurance covering a minimum of 30,000 EUR to 100,000 EUR in medical expenses, depending on the specific permit type (e.g., Family Reunification or Nomad Residence). EU nationals may use the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for initial periods, but long-term residents are encouraged to register for the local healthcare system or private cover.
The Application Process: Step-by-Step
The registration process is now almost entirely digitized. Follow these steps for a standard application:
- Online Submission: Upload all required documents (passport, lease, health insurance, and employment contract) to the Identitá portal.
- Biometrics Appointment: Once the application is vetted, the applicant will receive an invitation via email to visit the Identitá office in Msida (Malta) or Victoria (Gozo) for fingerprinting and a photograph.
- Interim Receipt: After biometrics, an interim receipt is issued. This document allows the applicant to remain legally in Malta while the card is being printed.
- Collection: Applicants receive a letter by post informing them that their card is ready for collection. They must present their passport and the notification letter at the designated collection desk.
Note: Processing times typically range from two to four months depending on the volume of applications and the completeness of the documentation provided.
