Malta•EuropeResearcher Residence Permit
At a Glance
2-3 months
Not confirmed
€300 for first-time applications; €200 per year for renewals
Duration of the hosting agreement
Not renewable
Renewal
Not renewable
Family
Not specified
PR Pathway
None
Sponsor
No job offer needed
Work
Remote not required
Overview
EU-aligned work and residence permit for third-country researchers hosted by accredited Maltese research organizations, valid for the hosting agreement's duration.
The Researcher Residence Permit is a specialized immigration pathway designed to attract highly qualified talent to Malta's research and innovation sector. Aligned with EU Directive 2016/801, this permit facilitates the entry and stay of third-country nationals who possess advanced academic credentials and have been selected by an accredited Maltese research organization to conduct specific scientific or academic projects. It serves as a streamlined mechanism for researchers to contribute to Malta's intellectual and technological development.
This permit is specifically for researchers who hold at least a Master's degree or equivalent qualification that would allow them to pursue doctoral studies. By requiring a formal hosting agreement, the permit ensures that the researcher is integrated into a recognized institution with defined working conditions. It is ideal for scholars, scientists, and academics looking to carry out research in Malta, offering them a clear legal framework to reside and work while fostering international collaboration and mobility within the European research area.
Conversion Paths
Visas you can typically switch to from this status.
MaltaType D — Employment Visa
MaltaEU Long-Term Residence Status
Requirements
PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS
Valid travel document (passport)
Signed hosting agreement with an accredited Maltese research organisation
Proof of adequate higher education qualifications (typically Master's degree or higher)
Proof of financial resources
Valid health insurance
KEY CRITERIA
Education
master or higher
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Signed hosting agreement on an approved project.
Proof of adequate qualifications (academic certificates).
Valid travel document (passport).
Proof of financial resources.
Health insurance policy.
Parental authorization (if the applicant is a minor).
Completed application form via the Single Permit Online Portal.
Advantages & Considerations
Key Benefits
- Specifically designed for highly qualified researchers.
- Facilitates mobility within the EU for research purposes.
- Allows for family reunification under specific conditions.
- Streamlined process through accredited research organizations.
Worth Knowing
- Applications must be submitted by the accredited research organisation, not the individual
- Requires a valid hosting agreement with an institution accredited by the Malta Council for Science and Technology
- If a visa is required for entry, it must be obtained prior to arrival in Malta
Application Process
Research organization obtains approval from MCST to host the researcher.
Researcher and organization sign a hosting agreement.
Organization applies for the permit via the Single Permit Online Portal.
Researcher confirms the application and validates information via a link.
Organization submits the final application and pays the fees.
Identità processes the application.
Upon approval, the researcher travels to Malta and completes biometric registration at Identità.
Related visas
More visas in Malta
Study visas in other countries
- Vocational / Non-Academic Student
United States
- Child Student Visa
United Kingdom
- Temporary Residence Permit (Scientific)
Bosnia and Herzegovina
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