Malta continues to attract contractors across multiple industries, who are interested in living and working in this island nation. Because Malta is part of the European Union, EU nationals can enter and work without any type of visa. But after three months, they will need to apply for a residence permit to stay long-term.
The situation is far more complicated for contractors from non-EU third countries who wish to work in Malta. However, there are several possible solutions for people in this category
Work Permit Options for Non-EU Citizens in Malta
Single Permit for Employment
If you are only planning on working with one client in Malta, you can apply for a single permit for employment. This will work only if the client wants to offer you a job, and all the criteria are met. You do give up some autonomy and the right to work with multiple clients, but the client would be your work permit sponsor.
Residence Permit by Self-Employment
It is possible for non-EU citizens to obtain a residence permit via self-employment. You need to obtain a trade license and make a capital investment of EUR 500,000. This permit might be out of reach for most contractors unless they have a serious business commitment to Malta.
Digital Nomad Visa
Malta does offer a new Digital Nomad Visa for contractors of any nationality. There are minimum income requirements (EUR 2700 monthly), and it is valid for one year. The caveat for this visa is that you cannot work for Maltese clients, so it’s limited to online, remote work. Both health insurance and a background check are required, but if you have active remote clients, it offers the chance to live in Malta.
Third Country Nationals with a Residence Permit in Another EU Country.
If you have a long-term residence permit in any EU country, then you can apply for the same in Malta. This EU residency might be based upon marriage, business or investments and it does allow you to work in Malta.
Work with an Umbrella Company
A final solution is to work through an umbrella company, that can sponsor your work permit and facilitate your contracts with clients. The umbrella company is a third-party intermediary between you and your client to ensure both payment and performance.
How does Contractor Taxation help you with working in Malta?
Contractor Taxation has a global network of umbrella companies, including in Malta. The umbrella company handles your visa sponsorship in addition to managing all your client payments and tax withholding. The advantages of an umbrella company while working in Malta include:
- Manages all client payments, tax withholding and any social contributions
- Issues you a payslip each month, to a local or foreign account
- Sponsors work permits for non-EU citizens
- Helps set up the contract with the client
- Moderates any disputes with your client
- Advises on access to totalization and double taxation treaties
Contractor Taxation has experienced umbrella companies in Malta who are ready to help you right away, even before you leave home. Please contact us for more information on how an umbrella company can be your essential partner in international contracting.
