Malta•EuropeEU Long-Term Residence Status
At a Glance
6-12 months
Not confirmed
€500
Indefinite (residence permit issued for 5-year periods)
Not renewable
Renewal
Not renewable
Family
Not specified
PR Pathway
None
Sponsor
No job offer needed
Work
Remote not required
Overview
Permanent residence status for third-country nationals with five consecutive years in Malta and proven financial independence, with cards renewed every five years.
EU Long-Term Residence Status is a prestigious immigration category for third-country nationals who have demonstrated a long-term commitment to living and working in Malta. This status, governed by the Status of Long-Term Residents (Third-Country Nationals) Regulations, provides non-EU citizens with a permanent legal standing that is similar to that of EU citizens. It is designed for individuals who have successfully integrated into Maltese society and wish to enjoy greater stability, including enhanced rights to employment, education, and social benefits.
This status is intended for long-term residents who have spent at least five consecutive years in Malta and can prove their financial independence and social integration. Unlike temporary work permits, this status is permanent, though the residence card itself is renewed periodically. It is the ideal choice for expatriates who have built their lives in Malta and seek a secure, long-term future, providing them with the peace of mind that comes with a recognized, stable, and protected residence status within the European Union.
Requirements
PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS
Must be a third-country national (non-EU/EEA/Swiss).
Must have resided legally and continuously in Malta for at least five years.
Must have stable and regular financial resources sufficient to maintain themselves and their family without recourse to the social assistance system.
Must have adequate accommodation that meets health and safety standards.
Must hold valid health insurance.
Must fulfill integration measures, including language proficiency (MQF Level 2 in English) and an integration course.
KEY CRITERIA
Experience
5+ years
Min. Income
18,940 EUR/yr
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Completed application form (available from Identità Malta).
Valid passport (with at least 8 months validity).
Proof of continuous legal residence for five years.
Evidence of stable and regular income (e.g., payslips, FS3 forms, bank statements).
Proof of adequate accommodation (e.g., rental agreement or property deed).
Police conduct certificate.
Proof of completion of integration measures (language and integration course certificates).
Advantages & Considerations
Key Benefits
- Right to reside and work in Malta indefinitely without employer sponsorship
- Access to public healthcare and education systems
- Greater security and stability compared to temporary work permits
Worth Knowing
- Does not grant automatic right to work in other EU countries
- Strict requirements for continuous physical presence in Malta
- Lengthy and complex application process
Application Process
Ensure 5 years of continuous legal residence
Complete integration measures (language and culture course)
Submit application online via the Expatriates Unit Portal
Attend appointment for biometric data collection
Receive residence card
Related visas
More visas in Malta
Residency visas in other countries
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