Malta offers 6 visa and residency pathways for foreign nationals. This page compares all available routes side by side with current requirements.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Visa Programme | Min. Income | Savings | Processing | Difficulty | Family |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Permit | N/A | N/A | 3-15d | 5.5/10 | Yes |
| EU Blue Card | N/A | N/A | 5-10d | 5.5/10 | Yes |
| Key Employee Initiative | €2,500/mo | N/A | 5-5d | 4.5/10 | Yes |
| Specialist Employee Initiative | €2,500/mo | N/A | 120-120d | 6.0/10 | Yes |
| Nomad Residence Permit | €3,500/mo | N/A | 30-60d | 4.7/10 | Yes |
| Malta Permanent Residence Programme | €8,333/mo | €500,000 | 120-180d | 8.0/10 | Yes |
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How many visa pathways does Malta offer?
Malta offers 6 distinct visa and residency pathways for foreign nationals, including skilled worker, family, investor, and other categories.
What is the easiest visa to get for Malta?
The easiest pathway depends on your profile. Working holiday visas (if available) have the lowest barriers. For professionals, employer-sponsored visas are the most common route.
How long does it take to get permanent residency in Malta?
The path to permanent residency in Malta typically takes 2-5 years depending on the visa category. Some skilled worker pathways offer faster PR routes.
Can I bring my family to Malta?
Most long-term visa categories in Malta allow family reunification for spouses and dependent children, though specific requirements vary by pathway.
Do I need a job offer to move to Malta?
Not all pathways require a job offer. Malta may offer self-employment, investment, digital nomad, or points-based pathways that don't require employer sponsorship.
Related: Malta Guide · Cost of Living · All Countries