Insurance for Residency and Visa Applications
Securing appropriate insurance is a mandatory prerequisite for most foreign nationals planning to move to Malta. Whether applying for a short-stay Schengen visa or a long-term residency permit, proof of coverage ensures that the applicant will not become a financial burden on the Maltese national healthcare system. The type of insurance required depends heavily on the individual's nationality and the specific purpose of their stay.
For official information on residency procedures, it is recommended to consult Identità (formerly Identity Malta Agency), the government entity responsible for residence permits.
Requirements for Third Country Nationals (TCNs)
Non-EU/EEA and non-Swiss citizens are classified as Third Country Nationals. For these individuals, insurance is often a non-negotiable part of the entry and residency process.
Short-stay Schengen Visas
Those entering Malta for up to 90 days usually require Travel Medical Insurance (TMI). According to Schengen regulations, the policy must cover all member states and remain valid for the entire duration of the stay. The minimum coverage requirement is 30,000 EUR ($31,650 USD, Jan 2026) for medical expenses and repatriation.
Long-term Residency and Work Permits
TCNs applying for a Single Permit (work permit) or a Nomad Residence Permit must provide proof of comprehensive health insurance. While some employers provide health cover, the initial application often requires the individual to present a private policy. The insurance must include:
- In-patient and out-patient hospital care.
- Repatriation to the home country in case of serious illness or death.
- Coverage for the entire duration of the initial residence card (usually one year).
Annual premiums for basic private health insurance for one person typically start from 180 EUR ($190 USD, Jan 2026), depending on age and medical history.
EU, EEA, and Swiss Citizens
Citizens of the European Union, European Economic Area, and Switzerland benefit from the right to free movement, but insurance requirements still apply during the transitional period of relocation.
The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)
The EHIC provides access to state-provided healthcare during a temporary stay. However, the EHIC is not a substitute for comprehensive insurance and does not cover private healthcare or repatriation. Once an EU national becomes a resident of Malta (stays longer than three months), they should register for the Maltese social security system to access local healthcare.
Self-Sufficient Residents
EU nationals moving to Malta under the status of "Economic Self-Sufficiency" are required to have private health insurance that covers all risks in Malta. This proof is necessary when applying for their local registration certificate.
Mandatory Policy Features and Exclusions
When selecting a policy for a Maltese visa or residence application, it is critical that the document explicitly mentions certain features to avoid rejection by the authorities.
Note: Most Maltese authorities require the insurance certificate to be in English. If the policy is in another language, a certified translation must be attached.
Standard Coverage Expectations
- Geographic Scope: Must clearly state "Malta" or "Schengen Area/Worldwide."
- Full Hospitalization: Coverage for hospital stays and surgeries.
- Emergency Services: Coverage for ambulance and emergency room visits.
Common Exclusions
Standard policies often exclude pre-existing conditions unless a higher premium is paid. Additionally, high-risk sports or elective cosmetic procedures are generally not covered under basic plans required for residency applications.
Practical Steps Before Moving
- Verify Visa Requirements: Consult the Ministry for Foreign and European Affairs to determine if your specific visa category requires a policy with specific minimum limits.
- Obtain Multiple Quotes: Compare local Maltese providers with international expatriate insurance companies. Local providers are often well-versed in the specific wording required by Identità.
- Check the Effective Date: Ensure the policy begins at least 24 hours before your scheduled arrival in Malta.
- Secure the Certificate: Request a "Letter of Confirmation" or a summary of cover from the insurer, as the full policy booklet is rarely required for the initial application.
Failure to maintain valid insurance while in Malta can lead to the revocation of a residence permit or difficulties during the renewal process.