Essential Paperwork for Malta Relocation
Relocating to Malta involves navigating specific administrative requirements that vary based on your nationality and the purpose of your stay. Ensuring that your documentation is organized and legally recognized before arrival is critical to a successful residency application. The primary authority responsible for residency is Identità (formerly Identity Malta).
Whether you are an EU/EEA national or a Third Country National (TCN), certain core documents remain universal. All documents not in English or Maltese must be accompanied by a certified translation. Furthermore, many legal documents require an Apostille or legalization to be accepted by Maltese authorities.
Personal Identification and Civil Status
Your identity documents are the foundation of any application in Malta. You must bring original versions and several high-quality photocopies of the following:
- Valid Passport or ID Card: EU/EEA/Swiss citizens may enter with a national ID card, but a passport is recommended for easier banking and private contracts. Non-EU citizens must have a passport valid for at least three to six months beyond their intended stay.
- Birth and Marriage Certificates: Required for family reunification or if you are applying for residency based on civil status. These must be original copies issued within the last six months in many cases.
- Police Conduct Certificate: Third Country Nationals must provide a clean criminal record from their country of origin, legalized or apostilled. This is often required for the Single Permit application.
Apostille and Legalization Requirements
Malta is a signatory to the Hague Convention. Documents issued by countries that are also members must bear an Apostille stamp. If your country is not a member, documents must be legalized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the issuing country and then by the Maltese diplomatic representation. Details on authentication can be found via the Ministry for Foreign and European Affairs.
Professional and Educational Documentation
For those moving to Malta for employment, the following documents are mandatory for the issuance of a work permit or residency document:
- Employment Contract: A signed copy of your Maltese employment agreement stating your position, duration of contract, and annual gross salary.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): A current CV signed and dated by the applicant, often required in the Europass format.
- Educational Certificates: Degrees and diplomas must be recognized. If your qualifications were obtained outside of Malta, you may need to apply for a recognition statement from the Malta Qualifications Recognition Information Centre (MQRIC).
- Professional Reference Letters: These should confirm at least three years of experience in the relevant field for certain work permit types.
Administrative Fees for 2026
When submitting your documents, be prepared for processing fees. As of early 2026, the standard application fees are:
- Single Permit (TCNs): 280.50 EUR ($303.00 USD, Jan 2026).
- EU National Registration: 20.00 EUR ($21.60 USD, Jan 2026).
- MQRIC Recognition: Depends on individual situation, typically starting from 25.00 EUR ($27.00 USD, Jan 2026) per qualification.
Health and Financial Proof
To ensure you do not become a burden on the Maltese social system, you must demonstrate financial self-sufficiency and health coverage.
- Private Health Insurance: Non-EU nationals generally require a full-cover health insurance policy for the initial period of residency. EU nationals should bring their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or an S1 form if applicable.
- Proof of Financial Means: This can include bank statements from the last three to six months. The required amount depends on the type of residency (e.g., self-sufficiency, student, or digital nomad).
- Lease Agreement: A rental contract for a property in Malta. The property must be registered with the Housing Authority by the landlord. You will also need a "Rental Declaration Form" signed by the owner.
Note: Requirements are subject to change based on updated policy directives. It is recommended to check the latest checklists on the official Identità portal prior to travel.