Frequently Asked Questions
Partner of a Maltese National:
A non-EU adult who is in a genuine, long-term relationship with a Maltese citizen may apply. This includes an unmarried partner or fiancé of a Maltese citizen.
The couple must demonstrate that they have been in a stable and committed relationship for at least two years. The relationship will only be considered valid if the couple has met in person regularly and maintained a sustainable relationship over time.
Relationships conducted solely online will not be accepted.
If the Maltese partner has been previously married, they must be divorced, widowed, or legally separated.
Providing evidence of the relationship is essential. Applicants must submit supporting documentation such as dated photographs, a dated timeline of the relationship, travel tickets showing visits, joint bank statements, and any other relevant proof.
The applicant must also share the same residential address as the Maltese partner.
The first Partner permit is issued for 1 year. Renewals are as follows:
- Relationship is over 3 years but less than 5 years – permit validity for 2 years;
- Relationship is over 5 years but less than 10 years – permit validity 3 years;
- Relationship is over 10 years – permit validity 5 years.
Renewals are completed online through Malta’s Identità portal. Applicants must update their Form O and submit current supporting documents, such as renewed lease agreements, health insurance, payslips, and a recently dated affidavit.
Biometric data is collected at each renewal appointment.
Yes. A Partner permit holder may work in Malta after obtaining a Jobsplus employment license.
In addition to general application documents, Partner applicants must submit specific evidence of their relationship.
- Relationship affidavit: A joint sworn statement (on oath) from both partners in Malta, detailing their durable, cohabiting relationship.
- Maltese partner’s civil status certificate: An official certificate from Malta’s Public Registry showing the civil status of the Maltese national.
- Witness letters: Letters from two independent friends or relatives confirming the relationship’s genuineness and duration, with IDs
- Financial evidence: Recent bank statements (last 3 months) showing enough funds (at least “minimum wage + 20%”) to support the couple without assistance.
- Proof of cohabitation/duration: Any additional proof that the couple has been together for 2+ years, such as joint rental agreements, shared bills, travel tickets, dated photos together, dated chatlogs.
- Legalised evidence (certificate or notorised affidavit) affirming the civil status of the third country national and affirming that he/she is not in any other relationship.
All documents should be in English or Maltese (or officially translated).
Upon renewal a recently dated affidavit of the couple should be submitted each time.
Parent of a Maltese National:
A non-EU parent (mother or father) may apply if their child is a Maltese citizen and is dependent on them. In most cases, this means the Maltese child is under 18 years of age.
If the child is older but still studying and financially dependent, an application may be considered until the child reaches the age of 23.
The parent must live in Malta as their main place of residence, and the parent–child relationship must be clearly proven, for example through the child’s birth certificate.
The first Parent permit is issued for one year. The first renewal is granted for two years; however, it cannot extend beyond the child’s 18th birthday.
Subsequent renewals may be issued for four years, again subject to the child’s age.
To renew the permit, the parent must apply online through the Identità portal and submit updated documentation confirming that the child is still dependent (for example, proof of alimony) and that the parent continues to reside in Malta.
If the child turns 18 and is no longer dependent, the Parent permit cannot be renewed further.
Yes. A parent holding this permit is entitled to work, provided they first obtain a Maltese employment licence from Jobsplus. The parent should coordinate with Jobsplus for the standard work-permit process.
Key documents include:
- Child’s birth certificate: Long-form certificate showing the applicant is the parent of the Maltese child.
- Child’s passport copy: A copy of the Maltese child’s passport.
- Evidence of dependency: Proof that the Maltese child depends on the parent. For example, if a minor, this is usually assumed (though the parent may still show they can support the child).
- Custody documents (if applicable): If the child’s parents are separated or no longer living together a court custody will be requested.
- Proof of means: Bank statements and any other financial documents for the parent to show they can support themselves (and the child) in Malta.
- Accommodation: Evidence of where the parent will live in Malta (lease, property deed).
- Health insurance: Valid comprehensive insurance covering Malta (for at least €100,000).
- Other general documents: These include the filled Form O, valid passport, proof of legal entry/stay, etc. (see General Requirements section on Form O).
Child of a Maltese National:
This permit is intended for a non-EU child of a Maltese citizen who is already living in Malta and is dependent on the Maltese parent.
The child must have arrived in Malta before the age of 21 and must already hold a Maltese residence permit (Article 4 permit) immediately prior to submitting the application.
The Maltese parent and child must live at the same residential address, and the child must be largely dependent on the Maltese parent, either financially or physically. In addition, the child must not hold any other valid residence permit.
In summary, the child’s residency in Malta is based on the parent’s ability to support and care for them. For example, an adult child with a disability who lives with and is cared for by their Maltese parent would meet the dependency requirements.
The Child of a Maltese National permit is generally issued for a period of two years; however, it cannot extend beyond the child’s 18th birthday. Renewals may be considered if the applicant continues to meet the eligibility criteria and the dependency on the Maltese parent still applies.
To renew the permit, the parent or guardian must submit an updated application together with supporting documentation confirming that the dependency continues. This may include evidence of financial support or medical certificates, where applicable.
The Expatriates Unit will review the application and verify that the original grounds of dependency remain valid before issuing a new permit.
Important documents include:
- Parent’s Maltese passport copy: Copy of the sponsoring Maltese parent’s passport.
- Child’s birth certificate: Showing the Maltese parent as mother or father.
- Custody/guardianship documents (if needed): If the Maltese parent is not the only parent, a custody decree naming the Maltese parent as guardian is required.
- Proof of dependency: For a minor child, dependency is assumed, but the parent may still provide evidence that they can support the child (e.g. parent’s job letter, bank statements). For an adult dependent child, medical certificates or disability reports plus proof of financial support (bank transfers from parent to child) should be included.
- Other general documents: Form O, passports, proof of legal stay, insurance, accommodation, .
Renewal requires updated evidence of the same conditions (e.g. a new doctor’s report if dependency is medical).
Employment-Related Permits:
The employment-related residence permits include:
- Posted Worker
- Service Provider
- Seasonal Worker
- Working Holiday
Each category depends on prior authorisation or an employment license from the relevant Maltese authority before the residence permit can be issued.
Applicants must first obtain approval or an employment licence from one of the authorities:
- The Department for Industrial and Employment Relations (DIER), or
- Jobsplus, depending on the type of employment.
Identità will issue the residence permit strictly in line with the validity period of the official licence or authorisation.
Depending on the type of employment authorisation, applicants must provide:
- Posted Worker: Confirmation from DIER that the person is registered and meets the criteria of a posted worker.
- Service Provider, Seasonal Worker, or Temporary Employment: Employment licence from Jobsplus confirming recognition under the respective category.
- Working Holiday: Authorisation issued by the Maltese Mission abroad or the Central Visa Unit (CVU).
- Where applicable, a residence card or work permit issued by the first Member State should also be submitted.
Yes.
Working Holiday applicants must:
- Obtain prior approval from the Maltese Mission in their country of origin or the Central Visa Unit, and
- Be between 18 and 30 years of age to qualify for this permit.
No.
Employment can only commence once the relevant licence or authorisation (from DIER or Jobsplus) has been granted and verified by Identità.
This is an employment-based permit, meaning access to Malta’s labour market is regulated by the DIER or Jobsplus depending on the employment type.
The right to work is strictly linked to the terms and duration of the licence or authorisation issued.
- Posted Worker: Validity determined by DIER — the residence permit mirrors the same duration as the DIER authorisation.
- Service Provider: Maximum of 1 year, as specified on the Jobsplus licence (non-renewable).
- Seasonal and Temporary Worker: Always less than 6 months, aligned with the employment licence’s validity.
- Working Holiday: Up to 1 year at a time, renewable until the applicant reaches the maximum age limit.
A Posted Worker permit is for a non-EU employee who is already working and living in another EU country but is temporarily sent (“posted”) to Malta by their EU employer.
The key points are:
- the worker must remain employed by the same company/group abroad, and
- the employer must have registered the posting with Malta’s Department of Industrial and Employment Relations (DIER).
For example, an engineer employed in Spain who is seconded by their Spanish company to work on a project in Malta for four months would qualify.
The posting must be genuinely temporary and must comply with EU posting rules, meaning that the employee’s home-country employment contract and salary remain in place during the assignment.
Applicants should include:
- DIER posting confirmation: The official certificate or letter from Malta’s DIER confirming the foreign employer has registered the posting.
- Home-country permit: A copy of the worker’s valid residence/work permit or long-term ID from the EU country where their employer is based. This shows they are legally employed abroad.
- Employer’s letter: A letter from the foreign employer describing the posting details (duration, nature of work, confirmation the worker remains on their payroll).
- Other general documents: Form O, passport, proof of legal stay, insurance,
To renew (if needed), the employer must file a new posting notification with DIER and provide the updated confirmation letter; the worker then applies again with that letter and an extension letter from the employer.
Malta has working holiday schemes with certain countries (currently Australia and New Zealand).
Young adults (typically ages 18–30) from those countries can apply. Applicants must first get an acceptance letter or visa from the Maltese diplomatic mission (e.g. Maltese High Commission in Australia) confirming they qualify for the program.
The applicant needs to show they have enough funds for a year and private health insurance (minimum €100,000 cover for 12 months) when applying for the visa. After arriving in Malta (through visa-free entry or a short-stay visa), the person must apply for the Working Holiday TRP (by submitting Form O) within 90 days of entry.
Key eligibility documents include the working holiday program letter, proof of funds and insurance, passport, entry stamp, and a statement of no dependents (since dependents aren’t allowed).
The main required documents are:
- Working Holiday acceptance letter/visa: The official letter or visa sticker from Malta’s High Commission (or NZ/Australian authority) confirming entry into the program.
- Proof of entry date: If already in Malta, a copy of the entry stamp showing application within 90 days.
- Proof of funds and insurance: Recent bank statements and travel/health insurance documents meeting the program’s criteria.
- No dependents declaration: A statement that the applicant has no spouse or children with them.
- Valid passport: The passport used to enter Malta.
- Other general documents: Form O
To get the second year, one reapplies with most of the same documents: original acceptance letter, updated funds/insurance, and proof of compliance (e.g. payslips, travel receipts).
Humanitarian Grounds:
Applications on humanitarian grounds are exceptional and case-specific, assessed individually and must be authorised by the Chief Officer for Immigration or a designated official.
Applicants must submit:
- A covering letter explaining the purpose of their stay in Malta; and
- Proof or evidence supporting the humanitarian claim (such as medical documents, police reports, or letters from authorities).
- The permit is valid for six (6) months, and
- It may be renewed upon approval by the Chief Officer for Immigration or a Designate, provided the humanitarian reasons remain valid.
When renewing, the applicant submits a new application with updated evidence (e.g., recent news about the unsafe conditions or updated medical notes). Each renewal is granted only if the hardship still clearly exists.
Health Grounds:
A residence permit for health purposes may be issued to a third-country national (TCN) who requires medical treatment or ongoing healthcare in Malta.
This includes:
- A TCN who requires emergency medical care in Malta and must remain in the country beyond their authorised period of stay.
- A TCN who has chosen a Maltese private hospital for treatment and can show that they (or their insurance) are fully covering all related medical and hospital expenses.
- A TCN receiving prolonged medical treatment in Malta for a condition that cannot be treated in their country of origin.
Applicants must submit a detailed medical report issued by a local specialist consultant (practicing in Malta), confirming:
- The nature of the medical condition; and
- The expected recovery period.
- If the treatment was pre-arranged while the person was still abroad, the following documents should also be included:
- Booking confirmation from the hospital or clinic in Malta
- Proof of payment or insurance coverage for treatment
- Medical reports issued by Maltese professionals
- Return flight tickets (may be waived if recovery date is uncertain due to complications)
- General documents: Form O, passport, entry permit, etc
In these cases, proof of accommodation (such as a lease agreement) may not be required, since the applicant’s stay is primarily for medical treatment.
The permit is valid for six (6) months or less, depending on the consultant’s medical recommendation.
Renewals are possible, but any permit extending beyond one year must be approved by the Chief Officer for Immigration or a Designate.
The Health permit is granted only for the duration needed for medical care. For emergency cases, it may cover just a few months as certified by a doctor.
For planned treatments, it matches the treatment period (often 6 months).
If complications occur or more treatment is needed, the permit can be renewed by submitting a new detailed medical report stating why additional time is required.
Without a fresh medical justification, extensions are not granted.
No. Work is explicitly not allowed on a Health Grounds permit.
The permit assumes the person is focused on treatment or recovery, not employment. Engaging in work would contradict the purpose of the permit. The applicant must rely on personal funds or support from their doctor/hospital during their stay.
Religious Purposes:
A residence permit under religious purposes may be issued to a third-country national (TCN) who:
- Has been posted to Malta by their religious order or established church to carry out duties related to their religious mission, and
- Is a member of an officially recognised religious order.
Only individuals belonging to such formally recognised organisations are eligible to apply under this category.
Applicants must provide:
- A letter from the Superior of the Order or from a Superior of the Curia, confirming the purpose of the stay in Malta, its expected duration, and the place of residence.
- In such cases, a lease agreement and accompanying accommodation documents may not be required, since the applicant is typically accommodated by the religious institution.
- General documents: Form O, insurance,
• Normally valid for up to 1 year, or less, depending on the length of the religious posting.
They can be renewed annually as long as the religious assignment continues. To renew, the applicant needs a new letter from the sponsoring religious authority confirming the continuation of the assignment and specifying the extended period.
A person present for religious purposes generally has no access to the Labour market.
Pensioner (Retired Person):
This is for non-EU retirees who live on a pension issued by the Malta’s social services only and want to reside in Malta.
Applicants must prove they receive a regular pension. Acceptable proof includes an official pension letter or certificate (from Malta’s Social Security) and recent bank statements showing the pension payments have been deposited. The pensioner must also show evidence of accommodation in Malta (rental lease or property deed) .
The permit may only be issued once the pension has been officially approved by the Ministry for Social Services (or its relevant department).
The Pensioner permit is issued for 1 year.
Upon renewal a 2 year validity will be granted. To renew, the pensioner must provide updated evidence that they are still receiving the pension (updated bank statements) and that they have lived in Malta (for example, utility bills).
Required documents include:
- Pension entitlement document: Official proof of pension
- Bank statements: Recent bank statements showing pension deposits.
- Accommodation proof: Lease agreement or property deed in Malta where the pensioner will live.
- General documents: Form O, passport
Renewals follow the same procedure: online Form O, appointment, and submitting the updated documents listed above.
Voluntary Service:
This permit is intended for non-EU nationals who will participate in an EU-recognised volunteer programme in Malta.
Eligible applicants are typically young adults (often between 18 and 30 years of age) who have been accepted into an approved volunteer project, such as those organised through the European Solidarity Corps or similar programmes.
Applicants must provide a formal volunteer agreement or contract with the Maltese host organisation. The project must also be officially recognised under EU rules, for example through certification issued by the relevant national agency.
The host organisation must provide, or arrange, suitable accommodation for the volunteer. In addition, the volunteer must have full health insurance, which is often provided as part of the programme.
The applicant must intend to carry out only the agreed unpaid voluntary work. This permit does not apply to informal or short-term volunteering and is only available for structured programmes that have received official approval.
It is only applicable if the voluntary work is being carried out with:
- An organisation recognised by the Voluntary Organisations (VO) Commissioner, or
- A recognised Mobility Project for Young People under the Voluntary Projects Scheme.
The duration of the permit corresponds to the length of the volunteer project, up to a maximum of 12 months. For example, if the project lasts nine months, the permit will be issued for nine months.
Once the project ends, the permit normally expires. There is no automatic extension unless the volunteer is accepted into a new approved programme.
Under EU rules, voluntary service under a single scheme is generally limited to a total of 12 months. If the volunteer begins a different approved project after completing one, they may apply for a new permit for that project.
If a project is unexpectedly extended, the host organisation may request an extension of the permit. Such requests are assessed on a case-by-case basis.
No. A Voluntary Service permit holder may only perform the unpaid volunteer tasks specified in their project. They typically receive only a stipend or allowance. Taking any paid job or work outside the program is not allowed. (If a volunteer completes the program and later finds paid work, they must apply for a proper work permit at that time.)
Required documents include:
- Host organisation agreement: Copy of the official contract/agreement with the Maltese host, detailing the volunteer role, duration, and conditions.
- Proof that the voluntary service is recognised by either the VO Commissioner or through a Mobility Project for Young People.
- Health insurance: Proof of medical insurance covering Malta.
- No dependents: A declaration that the applicant has no family dependents.
- Evidence of accommodation confirming that the volunteer will be housed by the host entity and that the accommodation meets legal requirements.
- General documents: Form O, passport, etc.
Renewals are generally not applicable unless the volunteer begins a new approved project (which would be a new application). If the same project unexpectedly extends, the host should explain the extension and a short renewal may be granted, but often the permit ends with the project.
Traineeship:
This permit is for non-EU nationals doing a formal training program or internship in Malta. Under Maltese (EU) rules, the trainee must have a higher education background: either be a recent graduate (within 2 years) or a student enrolled at a university abroad. The applicant must have a training agreement or internship contract with a Maltese host company or institution, specifying the training details and duration.
- Has been offered a traineeship with a recognised employer or host entity in Malta.
- Is part of a traineeship programme validated by Jobsplus, which must confirm the recognition of both the employer and the trainee before the residence permit application is submitted.
The validity period is determined by the duration of the approved traineeship as authorised by Jobsplus and the host entity.
Extensions may be considered if supported by an updated training agreement and Jobsplus approval.
No. An individual holding a traineeship permit does not have access to the Maltese labour market and cannot take up paid employment.
The permit is strictly limited to participation in the approved training programme.
Key documents include:
- Training agreement: The formal contract with the Maltese host detailing the training program, duration, and supervision.
- Educational proof: Diploma or certificate of higher education (for recent graduates) or proof of current enrollment in a foreign university.
- Evidence of funds and insurance: Bank statements showing sufficient means, plus health insurance for Malta.
- Passport and visa: Valid passport and any entry visa (if required).
- General documents: Form O, etc.
To extend the permit, the trainee needs a statement from the host (or education authority) justifying the extension.
Victims of Human Trafficking:
Yes. Under EU and Maltese law, foreign victims of trafficking who cooperate with authorities are entitled to a temporary residence permit in Malta.
This permit is initially for 6 months (renewable). If needed, this permit can be renewed beyond 6 months as long as the person continues to cooperate with authorities and the support process.
(Note: Detailed procedures and documents for trafficking victims are handled under separate policies; typically, a police or social services referral is required. This guide does not cover all specifics.)
General Application Requirements:
All applicants under the Temporary Permit category must submit the full set of required documents listed below.
Additional documents may be requested depending on the specific purpose of residence, and Identità reserves the right to request further clarification where needed.
Submitting all required documentation does not automatically guarantee the approval of a residence permit.
Applicants must provide:
1. Valid Passport
- The full copy of the applicant’s (third-country national’s) valid passport, including all pages, and ensuring a minimum validity of at least one year.
2. Proof of Legal Stay in Malta
- Required when the applicant is already in Malta at the time of application.
3. Proof of Accommodation
One of the following must be submitted:
- A lease agreement signed by both the landlord and the tenant, including full names, ID card numbers, full address, and signatures.
- The tenant’s name must match the one shown on the passport.
- If the landlord is not Maltese, a purchase agreement for the same premises must be presented.
- A Housing Authority approval letter confirming the registration of the property as a rental, as per Cap. 604 of Maltese Legislation.
- A Lease Agreement Attestation Form, to be completed and signed by the landlord, and notarised or stamped by a lawyer/notary/legal procurator.
Applicants must also provide:
- Proof of purpose of stay in Malta, such as supporting documents relevant to their permit type.
- Recent bank statements (not older than 3 months) showing regular income or savings sufficient to sustain their stay.
- Proof of tax and social contributions (at least 12 payslips and FS3 from the previous year) for employed applicants.
- Copies of any previous or current residence permits held in Malta.
All documents must comply with the Policy for the Recognition of Foreign Public Documents ( https://identita.gov.mt/public-registry-sec-page-policy-for-the-recognition-of-foreign-public-documents/ ), available on the Identità website. Certified copies may be accepted when properly attested in line with Maltese regulations.
All documents must be in English or Maltese, or accompanied by certified translations.
Yes. In addition to the above, each permit type has its own list of required documents. For instance, Partners need affidavits and joint bills, Working Holiday applicants need their program acceptance letter, Posted Workers need the DIER confirmation
The Form O checklist (and Identità guidance) provides the detailed list for each category. Applicants should carefully check the category-specific section and upload all the relevant evidence when applying.
Any document in another language must be accompanied by a certified translation into English or Maltese. For example, a foreign birth certificate, police check, or medical report all need official translations.
Refusals and Appeals:
Applications may be refused if the eligibility requirements are not met or if the required documentation is not provided. Common reasons for refusal include:
- Ineligibility: The applicant does not meet the criteria for the specific category (for example, the relationship is not sufficiently proven or dependency cannot be demonstrated).
- Missing or insufficient documentation: Required documents are incomplete or not submitted (for example, a missing registered lease agreement or valid health insurance).
- Insufficient financial means: Bank statements or income records indicate that the applicant cannot support themselves. As a general guideline, applicants are expected to demonstrate financial means roughly equivalent to the minimum wage plus an additional 20% for each dependent.
- Criminal or security concerns: A criminal record or security-related issue, particularly involving serious offences, may lead to refusal.
- Fraud or misrepresentation: If false documents are submitted or the information provided is inconsistent or misleading, the application will be refused and may negatively affect future applications.
- Non-compliance: Failure to attend a scheduled appointment or submitting the application too late may result in the application being treated as abandoned and therefore refused.
- Misuse of the permit category: If the authorities believe the permit category is being misused (for example, applying for a volunteer permit with the intention of working), the application may be refused.
- Changed circumstances: For renewals, if the original grounds for the permit no longer apply (for example, the sponsor no longer supports the applicant), the renewal may be refused.
- Discretionary grounds: In cases that rely on humanitarian or discretionary considerations, the application may be refused if the justification is considered insufficient.
If an application is refused, the applicant will receive a formal letter explaining the reason for the decision.
Yes. You have the right to appeal to Malta’s Immigration Appeals Board (IAB). The appeal is time-sensitive and must be filed within three working days of receiving the refusal letter. The refusal letter will state your appeal rights and the deadline.
To appeal, you must submit a written notice to the IAB explaining why you believe the decision is incorrect.
If you previously held a valid permit or had submitted a renewal application on time, you are generally allowed to remain in Malta while the appeal is being processed. In such cases, the IAB may grant a temporary suspension of removal. If you did not hold a prior legal status, filing an appeal does not automatically legalise your stay, although the IAB may still decide to suspend removal.
Once the appeal is lodged, a hearing will be scheduled. You may attend the hearing, often with the assistance of a lawyer, and present additional evidence or arguments to support your case, such as new documents confirming your eligibility. Identità will also present its position in defence of the original decision.
After reviewing the case, the Appeals Board may either uphold the refusal or overturn the decision and order that the permit be issued.
Renewals:
Renewal follows the same general steps as the initial application. You must apply online using Form O, marked as a renewal, well before your current permit expires. It is recommended to submit the renewal application at least 30 days before the expiry date. If the application is submitted on time, your legal stay in Malta is automatically extended while the renewal is being processed.
When completing the form, make sure all personal details and address information are updated where necessary.
You will also need to provide updated supporting documents. These may include a new lease agreement or landlord declaration (if you have moved or to confirm your current address), valid health insurance for the new permit period, and a passport that remains valid.
In addition, you must submit updated documents specific to your permit category to show that the original basis for the permit still applies. For example, partners may provide updated joint bills or a new affidavit; parents or children may provide updated proof of dependency; posted workers may submit a new letter from DIER; and Working Holiday applicants may provide a year-two acceptance letter and proof of sufficient funds.
After submitting the application, you will need to schedule a renewal appointment, during which biometric data will be collected again. If all requirements continue to be met, the renewal is usually granted and a new residence card will be issued with the extended validity period.
In addition to the general documents (such as an updated lease agreement, valid health insurance, and a valid passport), applicants must submit updated evidence specific to their permit category. Examples include:
- Partner: Updated proof of the relationship, such as new joint bills, an updated sworn affidavit, or other recent evidence.
- Parent/Child: New proof of dependency, such as recent financial statements or updated parental declarations.
- Posted Worker: A new DIER posting confirmation if the assignment continues.
- Working Holiday: A year-two acceptance letter or confirmation, together with proof of sufficient funds and valid insurance.
- Humanitarian: Updated evidence confirming that the humanitarian situation preventing return still exists.
- Health: A new detailed medical report issued by a consultant.
- Religious: A new sponsorship letter from the Maltese religious authority.
- Pensioner: Recent bank statements showing pension deposits, together with proof that the applicant has been residing in Malta (for example, a utility bill).
- Trainee: A letter from the host organisation explaining why additional training time is required.
In short, applicants must demonstrate that the conditions under which the original permit was granted still apply.
If you submit your renewal application on time, you may remain legally in Malta while the renewal is being processed. It is advisable to keep the confirmation of your renewal appointment as proof of your pending application.
However, you should avoid travelling outside Malta while the renewal is pending, as an expired residence card may prevent re-entry without a valid visa.
First-time applications submissions:
Applications must be submitted online through the Identità portal at expatriates.identita.gov.mt.
Applicants must first create a profile and select the appropriate permit category (for example, Partner, Religious, Pensioner, Parent of a Maltese National, etc.).
The application should be submitted before the expiry of the applicant’s current authorisation to stay in Malta.
Original documents will be verified later during the biometric appointment.