Malta is an archipelago between Sicily and the North African coast in the central Mediterranean. It's a nation known for historic sites related to a succession of rulers including the Romans, Moors, Knights of Saint John, French, and British. It has numerous fortresses, megalithic temples, and the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, a subterranean complex of halls and burial chambers dating to circa 4000 B.C.
BENEFITS OF MALTA MIGRATION
EU Membership
Schengen Area
High Quality of Life
Business and Investment Opportunities
English Proficiency
Social Welfare System
Cultural Diversity
GENERAL IMMIGRATION CRITERIA
The immigration criteria for Malta vary depending on the purpose of your immigration, such as work, study, investment or family reunification. Here are some common immigration criteria for Malta
Visa Requirements:
Depending on your nationality and the purpose and duration of your stay, you may need to obtain a visa before traveling to Malta. Some countries have visa waiver agreements with Malta, allowing their citizens to enter visa-free for a limited period. For longer stays, you may need to apply for a long-term visa or residence permit.
Financial Requirements:
In some cases, you may be required to demonstrate that you have sufficient financial means to support yourself during your stay in Malta. This could include proof of funds, employment contracts, or other evidence of financial stability.
Health Insurance:
It is generally recommended to have valid health insurance coverage for the duration of your stay in Malta, particularly if you are not covered by the Maltese healthcare system.
Employment Permits:
If you plan to work in Malta, you will need to obtain an employment permit. The requirements for obtaining an employment permit will depend on factors such as the type of job, the labor market conditions, and your qualifications. Employers in Malta are typically responsible for assisting employees in obtaining the necessary work permits.
Student Permits:
If you wish to study in Malta, you will need to apply for a student permit. This will typically require proof of enrollment in a recognized educational institution and sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees and living expenses.
Family Reunification:
If you have family members who are Maltese citizens or legal residents, you may be eligible to join them in Malta through family reunification. Specific requirements and procedures will apply in these cases.
Background Checks:
Immigration authorities in Malta may conduct background checks as part of the immigration process, including checks for criminal records or any previous immigration violations.
SKILLED MIGRATION TO MALTA
Skilled migration to Malta typically falls under the category of employment and work permits. If you possess skills or qualifications that are in demand in Malta, you may have opportunities to migrate for employment purposes. Here are some key points to consider
Job Offer:
Generally, you will need a confirmed job offer from a Maltese employer before applying for a work permit. The employer must demonstrate that the position cannot be filled by a local or EU/EEA candidate and that your skills and qualifications are essential for the job.
Work Permit:
Once you have a job offer, your prospective employer in Malta will initiate the work permit application process on your behalf. The employer will need to submit the necessary documentation, such as your employment contract, proof of their efforts to recruit locally, and evidence of your qualifications and experience.
Labor Market Testing:
In some cases, a labor market test may be conducted to ensure that there are no suitable local or EU/EEA candidates available for the position. This test usually involves advertising the job vacancy and considering applications from local and EU/EEA residents for a specified period.
Skills and Qualifications:
Your skills and qualifications should align with the needs of the Maltese labor market. In-demand sectors in Malta include financial services, gaming, information technology, healthcare, hospitality, and engineering.
English Language Proficiency:
English is widely spoken in Malta, so a good command of the English language is typically required for skilled migration. Some employers may request proof of English language proficiency, such as IELTS or TOEFL scores.
Salary and Benefits:
The remuneration and employment conditions offered to you should be in line with Maltese labor laws and industry standards. The employer must provide fair compensation and benefits, including adherence to minimum wage requirements.
Validity and Renewal:
Work permits in Malta are typically issued for a specific duration, often tied to the length of your employment contract. You may need to renew your work permit if you plan to continue working in Malta beyond the initial period.
EMPLOYER - SPONSORED MIGRATION
Employer-sponsored migration to Malta allows individuals to move to the country for employment purposes with the sponsorship and support of a Maltese employer. Here are some key points to consider regarding employer-sponsored migration in Malta:
Job Offer:
To be eligible for employer-sponsored migration, you will need a valid job offer from a Maltese employer. The employer must provide you with an employment contract that outlines the terms and conditions of your employment, including salary, working hours, and benefits.
Work Permit:
Once you have a job offer, your prospective employer will initiate the work permit application process on your behalf. The employer will need to submit the necessary documentation, including your employment contract, proof of efforts to recruit locally or within the EU/EEA, and evidence of your qualifications and experience.
Labor Market Testing:
In certain cases, the employer may need to demonstrate that there are no suitable local or EU/EEA candidates available for the position. This may involve advertising the job vacancy and considering applications from local and EU/EEA residents for a specified period.
Eligible Positions:
Employer-sponsored migration is typically available for positions that cannot be filled by local or EU/EEA candidates. Skilled professions in sectors such as financial services, gaming, information technology, healthcare, hospitality, and engineering often have opportunities for employer-sponsored migration.
Skills and Qualifications:
Your skills and qualifications should align with the requirements of the position and the Maltese labor market. Your employer will need to demonstrate that your skills and expertise are essential for the job and not readily available locally.
Work Permit Validity and Renewal:
Work permits in Malta are typically issued for a specific duration, often tied to the length of your employment contract. You may need to renew your work permit if you plan to continue working in Malta beyond the initial period.
Responsibilities of the Employer:
The sponsoring employer is responsible for facilitating the work permit application process, ensuring compliance with Maltese labor laws, and providing fair employment conditions and benefits as required by local regulations.
FAMILY-SPONSORED MIGRATION
Family-sponsored migration in Malta allows individuals to join their family members who are Maltese citizens or legal residents. Here are some key points to consider regarding family-sponsored migration to Malta:
Eligible Family Members:
The following family members may be eligible for family-sponsored migration in Malta:
Spouse or registered partner
Dependent children (including adopted children)
Dependent parents or grandparents
Sponsor's Status:
The family member residing in Malta, who is either a Maltese citizen or a legal resident, will act as the sponsor for family-sponsored migration. The sponsor must meet the necessary requirements and hold a valid residence permit or citizenship in Malta.
Sponsor's Financial Capability:
The sponsor must demonstrate the financial capability to support the family members being sponsored. This may include providing evidence of sufficient income, accommodation, and other necessary resources to support the family unit.
Relationship Documentation:
Documentation proving the relationship between the sponsor and the family member being sponsored will need to be provided. This may include marriage certificates, birth certificates, adoption papers, or other relevant documents.
Application Process:
The sponsored family member will need to apply for a residence permit or visa to join their family member in Malta. The application process will require the submission of required documents and may involve interviews or additional checks.
Dependents' Age Limit:
The age limit for dependent children may vary, but generally, children under the age of 18 are eligible. In certain cases, dependent children over the age of 18 may also be eligible if they can demonstrate dependency on the sponsor due to physical or mental disabilities.
Renewal of Residence Permit:
Family-sponsored residence permits typically need to be renewed periodically. The renewal process will require providing updated documentation and demonstrating continued eligibility.
BUSINESS AND INVESTMENT MIGRATION
Malta offers various business and investment migration options for individuals who wish to establish or invest in businesses in the country. Here are some key points to consider regarding business and investment migration in Malta:
Malta Individual Investor Program (MIIP):
The MIIP, which was previously available, offered citizenship in Malta to individuals who made a significant financial contribution to the country. However, please note that as of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the MIIP has been suspended, and it is advisable to consult official sources or the Maltese authorities for the most up-to-date information on citizenship by investment programs.
Malta Residence and Visa Program (MRVP):
The MRVP, also known as the Malta Golden Visa, allows non-EU/EEA individuals to obtain a residence permit in Malta by making certain investments. The program requires applicants to make a significant financial contribution, including investments in government bonds, real estate, or companies, as well as meet other eligibility criteria.
Business Investment:
Investing in or establishing a business in Malta can also provide a pathway to migration. By creating a business presence in Malta and meeting specific criteria, individuals can apply for residence permits or work permits for themselves and their employees.
Start-up Malta:
Start-ups and innovative companies can take advantage of Malta's Start-up Malta program. This program provides support, incentives, and streamlined processes for entrepreneurs and start-ups in sectors such as technology, innovation, and digital services.
Tax Incentives:
Malta offers favorable tax incentives for businesses, including a competitive corporate tax rate and various deductions, exemptions, and credits. These incentives can contribute to the attractiveness of Malta as a business and investment destination.
Supportive Business Environment:
Malta has a business-friendly environment, with a well-developed financial sector, a skilled workforce, and a strong regulatory framework. The country has been actively promoting sectors such as financial services, gaming, fintech, blockchain, and digital innovation.