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Introduction: Who are Digital Nomads & Why Europe?
The rise of digital nomadism has transformed how and where we work. We are no longer confined to offices or even home countries, so remote workers are now able to roam the globe, choosing a lifestyle and flexibility over conventional routine. The COVID-19 pandemic only accelerated this shift, pushing companies to embrace remote work and inspiring individuals to rethink their work-life balance.
Europe, with its rich history, modern infrastructure and diversity of cultures, is a top destination for professional digital nomads due to all the benefits on offer. This ranges from seamless visa-free travel within the Schengen Zone, high-speed internet, thriving co-working scenes and creative hives that make the continent particularly appealing. From Malta with its ancient history to the beaches of Spain and the tech scenes of Berlin and Tallinn, Europe is a true playground for nomads.
Among the many destinations available, Malta really stands out – not just as a beautiful island in the Mediterranean, but as a strategic, accessible and tax-smart base for digital nomads looking to live and work in Europe. Rather than fleeting stays chasing Instagram hotspots, think of Malta as your extended home and use Malta as your strategic hub: its central Mediterranean location offers easy flights to mainland Europe, North Africa and the Middle East, making it a springboard for truly amazing adventures.
What Malta Has to Offer: Lifestyle, Tax Benefits & the Digital Nomad Programme
Malta is unique in offering a mix of sunshine, English-speaking locals, a stable EU jurisdiction and world-class internet – all on a compact island that’s easy to navigate.
Key points for digital nomads in Malta include:
- Living in a warm Mediterranean climate year-round.
- Being part of a vibrant, creative melting pot of intellectuals, artists and leading professionals in the world of AI, art, banking, tech, design, the aviation and maritime industries.
- Having access to beautiful cities like Valletta, Sliema, The Three Cities and Mdina to investigate and even live in plus countless other historic sites to visit and explore.
- Having long-established digital and co-working infrastructure available on both Malta and Gozo.
- Working in a country that is a leading light in i-Gaming, crypto and blockchain, as Malta was one of the pioneers in the EU at the beginning of the digital revolution.
Financial and legal benefits:
- Tax efficiency: Malta operates on a remittance basis of taxation, meaning foreign income may not be taxed locally if it isn’t brought into the country.
- Double Taxation Treaties (DTTs): Malta has agreements with over 70 countries, helping digital nomads to avoid being taxed twice on the same income.
- No wealth or inheritance taxes, making it a smart option for long-term planning.
- A vibrant and robust real estate market that has proven to provide excellent returns on investment.
Check Your Eligibility for the Digital Nomad Visa
Malta’s Nomad Residence Permit allows remote workers from non-EU countries to reside on the islands for one year, renewable upon meeting eligibility.
Required criteria include:
- Proof of remote employment or self-employment outside Malta
- A minimum gross monthly income
- Valid health insurance
- Suitable accommodation in Malta
- Applicants must hold a valid passport
- A background check is mandatory for all applicants
- Processing is expected to take approximately 30 working days.
Family inclusivity: The permit extends to spouses and dependents, enabling families to move together and enjoy the Maltese lifestyle.
Freedom of movement: While holding the permit, you can also travel freely within the Schengen area – a huge plus for frequent travellers.
Please note: This permit does not provide a route to obtaining permanent residency or citizenship; those follow separate legal pathways.
New Updates to the Programme
Malta has introduced several key changes to its Digital Nomad programme, enhancing its appeal while tightening certain requirements. The most notable updates include a longer permitted stay, a higher income threshold, and greater clarity on taxation matters.
- Extended Duration of Stay:
The Nomad Residence Permit now allows digital nomads to reside in Malta for up to four years. Initially issued for one year, the permit can be renewed three times, offering a cumulative stay of four years.
- Higher Income Threshold:
As of April 1, 2024, new applicants must demonstrate a minimum gross annual income of €42,000. However, individuals who obtained the permit under the previous income requirement of €32,400 will continue to be assessed using that figure when applying for renewals.
- Tax Guidelines:
- Beneficiaries enjoy a 12-month exemption from Maltese income tax on earnings from authorized remote work.
- After the first year, a 10% flat tax applies to such income.
- To avoid triggering taxation on worldwide income, it is advisable to spend fewer than 183 days per calendar year in Malta.
Exceeding this threshold may lead to taxation of global income by Maltese authorities.
Practical Tips for Digital Nomads to Consider when Planning to Settle in Malta
- Contact others that are already here as Digital Nomads: look for meet-ups on Facebook or check co-work‑Malta to network with other digital nomads.
- Educate yourself about the different neighbourhoods and localities: if you prefer a cosmopolitan vibe, Sliema and St Julian’s for example, are ideal. For a quieter lifestyle investigate Mellieha or Gozo.
- Plan on how you will get around: Malta’s bus network connects most towns affordably. Many nomads also choose scooters or electric bikes for greater flexibility and keep in mind that if you are planning on renting or buying a car, Malta is renowned for its congestion.
- Get a local sim card: operators like GO and Melita offer data plans with fast 4G and growing 5G coverage.
- Understand taxation: Malta uses a remittance basis for foreign income under certain conditions. Consider consulting with a tax advisor to optimise your arrangements.
- Insurance: Whether it is household, medical, personal or car insurance, make sure you have this all sorted out as soon as you can or at least have a good idea of who to contact regarding.
We advise that you speak to our Client Services Department regarding any questions you may have on any of the above subjects.
Who We Are: Frank Salt Real Estate and How We Can Help
What makes us unique in Malta is that our company goes far beyond the traditional role of any real estate agency. With over 56 years of experience, Frank Salt Real Estate is Malta’s largest leading property group. But we offer far more than real estate transactions – we help digital nomads relocate, integrate and thrive. Frank Salt Real Estate offers a comprehensive suite of services that are particularly well suited to digital nomads through our dedicated Client Services Department which includes a bouquet of specialist concierge services.
Digital nomads arriving in Malta are often in search of more than just a place to stay – they require a seamless transition into a new lifestyle and this is where Frank Salt Real Estate recognises this and provides bespoke assistance tailored to the unique needs of remote professionals.
How we assist digital nomads:
With our Client Services & Concierge Departments we are the first and only point of contact you will need for your relocation to Malta:
- Our Client Services Department serves as a reliable, knowledgeable guide throughout your entire relocation process.
- Our Concierge Service acts as a bridge between settling in and truly feeling at home. This personal service’s approach is distinctly personal and adaptable, recognising the fact that no two experiences are the same. Each one of our clients feel fully supported from day one.
Here are just some of the benefits we have on offer which will be coordinated by these departments:
- Property: We will find you the perfect rental or purchase, be it a sea-view apartment in Sliema, a family home in Mellieha or a historic townhouse in Valletta. We will organise from virtual viewings when you are not yet in Malta to on-site inspections when you arrive, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.
- Holistic relocation support: We offer comprehensive assistance to ensure a smooth transition, including coordinating airport transfers, booking temporary accommodation, provide pointers in setting up local bank accounts, introducing healthcare providers, arranging utility connections and supporting your integration into the local community.
- Tax and legal guidance: Through our network of trusted partners, we provide help with tax residency, legal compliance and even investment planning.
- Ongoing support: From property management to home interior services to future investments, we’re by your side even after move-in.
- Short lets: Through Malta Holiday Lets (MHL) which is part of the Frank Salt Group, we have access to fantastic short-let properties in key hotpots.
- Property management: For digital nomads who purchase property and qualify to rent it out when they are not in Malta, this can provide lucrative additional income. This is where our Property Management Division provides a hassle-free service with finding tenants, changeovers, paying utilities and any maintenance and caretaking.
- Home interiors service: Whether you rent or purchase, our Home Interiors Division is at your service for decorating, renovating, upgrades, refurbishing or any other associated services a property may need.
“Many Digital Nomads prefer to contact us is via the online submissions form through our website. The most common question was how to apply for the Malta Digital Nomad Residence Permit which can be found here. In terms of properties for sale or rent, the majority received assistance from us in finding suitable rentals within a range of budgets. Several successful applicants also expressed interest in purchasing a property through us after having lived here for some time.”
Annabelle Ciantar – Client Support Services Manager
What’s Next? Your Steps to a Digital Nomad Life in Malta
If you’re ready to make Malta your base, here’s how to begin:
- Check your eligibility for the Digital Nomad Residence Permit here.
- Submit your permit application, including all the necessary documentation.
- Reach out to Frank Salt Real Estate for property options and relocation advice.
- Choose your preferred neighbourhood, type of property and budget based on your lifestyle.
- Come to Malta on an inspection tour and make your final choices.
- Move to Malta, settle in and thrive, knowing that FSRE will continue supporting you every step of the way.
It is time to make your move!
Living in Europe as a digital nomad opens doors to cultural enrichment, professional growth and memorable experiences. With our support and holistic circle of services, we remain involved long after the keys have been handed over: for digital nomads who may eventually wish to invest or settle long-term, this creates continuity and peace of mind allowing you to focus on work, exploration and embracing the Mediterranean lifestyle.
