To qualify, you must meet all the following conditions:

• You must have resided legally and continuously in Malta for at least five (5) years before applying.
  “Continuous residence” means that any absences from Malta were short: no single absence may exceed six (6) months, and the total time spent abroad must not exceed ten (10) months within the five-year period.
• You must demonstrate stable and regular financial resources.
  For at least the two (2) years preceding your application, your income must be no less than the national minimum wage. Proof of income must be provided through recent payslips and FS3 forms.

You must meet the integration requirements, which include the following:
Completing Malta’s official “I Belong” Integration Course (100 hours) and achieving a minimum score of 75% in the final exam. The certificate must be valid and must not be older than one (1) year from the date of submission.
In addition, you must pass a Maltese language test at MQF Level 2 with a score of at least 65%. Both certificates must be issued within one (1) year prior to your application.

Certain categories of individuals cannot count their stay in Malta toward the 5-year residence requirement. These include:

• Individuals holding a student or vocational training permit, as time spent in Malta under such permits is not considered.
• Persons residing in Malta under temporary humanitarian protection, including those awaiting a decision on such applications.
• Seasonal workers or those holding short-term visas.
• Diplomatic or consular staff and their family members (or anyone covered by diplomatic agreements).
• SRA
• Asylum seekers
• Family Member policy.

Time spent in Malta under any of these categories does not contribute to the required five (5) years.
If you are currently in Malta under one of these statuses, you must first switch to a regular residence permit (for example, an employment or single permit). Once this change is made, a new five-year qualifying period will begin.

Yes. Refugees and beneficiaries of subsidiary protection are eligible to apply for long-term residence in Malta.
Their entire period of stay in Malta is taken into account, but with a specific rule:

• Time spent in Malta before protection is officially granted is counted at 50%, unless this pre-protection period exceeds 18 months, in which case any time beyond 18 months is counted in full.

Example:
If you applied for asylum and it took more than 18 months to receive refugee status, the first 18 months are counted as half-time, while any period beyond that is counted in full.

In practice, most refugees become eligible for long-term residence approximately five years after they first applied for protection.

No. Citizens of EU or EEA countries, or Switzerland do not need this permit. They have the right to live and work in Malta under EU free movement laws, so this programme is only for third-country nationals (non-EU citizens).

Applicants must submit the official application form (Form L) plus a set of supporting documents. Key items include:

• Cover letter: A written and signed letter to Identità (Expatriates Unit) explaining your request. It should state that you are applying for long-term residency and briefly describe your history in Malta.Include your first arrival date and circumstances, a summary of your activities in Malta (study, employment, family) and details of any family members living with you.
• Travel history: A signed and dated chronological list of all your arrivals in and departures from Malta (and other Schengen countries) over the last 5 years. Every trip should be listed with dates of exit and return. This proves you met the continuous residence rule (showing that absences were short and infrequent).
• Passport copies: Photocopies of all pages of every passport you have held during the last five (5) years (including blank pages). These should cover the entire period. Your passport must be valid for at least a further six (6) months. You will also present the original passport(s) at your appointment for verification. If irregularities are identified in these documents, they will not be accepted. Furthermore, if any of the following issues are identified, the front desk officer must inform their immediate line manager for further actions:
  • Expired Passport
  • Falsified Documents
• Proof of 5-year residence: Documents showing you lived in Malta continuously for the past five (5) years. Acceptable evidence includes, for example, rental contracts or deeds, utility bills, bank statements, employment contracts or pay slips, school or college enrolment records, etc. The goal is to demonstrate that you have effectively lived in Malta throughout that period.
• Proof of stable and regular resources: Evidence of your income for the continuous two (2) years immediately preceding the date of application, declared with the pertinent tax authorities in Malta, equivalent to at least the national minimum wage in Malta, plus an additional 20% of the national minimum wage for each family member. Common documents are: tax return forms or official tax certificates for those two years signed and stamped, recent payslips, your employment contract, or a letter from your employer confirming your salary. If you are self-employed or a business owner, you can provide audited accounts, business tax returns, or an accountant’s letter. Tax returns are particularly useful because they prove both the amount and that it was declared. (Note: any special social security benefits or allowances you received, like child benefits or rent subsidies, do not disqualify you and can be counted toward your resources if needed.)
• Housing documents: Proof that you have suitable accommodation in Malta. This typically includes:
• A certified architect attestation certificate confirming your residence is “normal for a comparable family” and meets Maltese standards (sanitary, safety, etc.). Often an inspection is done.
• If property is a rental: a copy of your lease agreement signed by you and the landlord, showing the address and term of the lease.
• A Lease Agreement Attestation Form (available from Identità), signed by your landlord and a lawyer/notary, confirming the lease details.
• The Housing Authority approval Letter or Email for the rental (Malta requires all leases to be registered).
• If the applicant owns the property, the purchase contract or deed must be provided instead of a lease; no lease attestation form is required in such case.
• Health insurance: Evidence of comprehensive medical insurance covering you (and your dependents) for all risks normally covered for Maltese nationals. In practice, this means both primary care and hospital care (private insurance is usually needed unless you are exempt by virtue of social security contributions). A typical submission is a one-year private insurance policy (renewable). If you are exempt because you pay into Malta’s health system, provide official documentation of that exemption.
• Integration course and language certificates: Proof that you have completed the required integration program in Malta. Specifically:
• The certificate of completion for the I Belong integration course (Human Rights and Integration Directorate certificate) showing you attended at least 100 hours and passed the exam with 75% or more (front page and back page of the certificate). This certificate must have been issued within one (1) year of your date of submission.
• The certificate for the Maltese language exam (MQF Level 2) with at least 65%. This is often issued by an accredited body like the Institute of Maltese Language (front and back page of the certificate).
• Also include the receipts or proof of payment for the course and exam, demonstrating you paid any required fees.

(If you completed an integration course in another EU country’s program, you still need to provide the Maltese language certificate, because Maltese is specific to Malta.)

• Application form & declarations: The fully completed Form L (Application for Long-Term Residence). Make sure all sections are filled in with correct personal details, addresses, employment, etc. You must sign the declaration on the form, affirming all information is true. If family members are applying with you, they each need their own form (or sections filled). If applicable, this must also be signed by the landlord.
• Verification of originals: When you submit, bring original documents for all key items (passports, certificates, etc.). Identità will check originals and keep copies.
• Translations: If any document is not in English or Maltese, you must provide an official translation by a translator registered in Malta. It also needs to be signed and stamped by the registered translator.

Before submitting, review Identità’s latest checklist to ensure no documents are missing or outdated, as requirements can change.

If the documents are not all submitted, the Agency should not automatically refuse the application for the Long Term Residence but must communicate with the applicant and ask for further documents. It is only once the applicant confirms that he has no further documentation to provide that the Agency should issue a decision.

The application process is now fully online and can be completed through the Identità online Portal.

Follow these steps carefully:

1. Preparation
Before applying, make sure you meet all eligibility requirements — including five (5) years of continuous legal residence in Malta, proof of financial stability, and completion of the integration course and Maltese language test.

Prepare all supporting documents in PDF format for upload (refer to the checklist provided on the Identità website). It is advisable to start this process early, as booking integration or language exams may take time.

2. Online Application (Form L – Long-Term Residence)

Access the Identità Online Portal and complete Form L electronically.

Enter your personal information, address history, passport details, and other required data. Upload clear scans of all documents as per requirements.

3. Payment of Fees

The application fee is €500 and must be paid online through the Identità payment gateway during submission. Applications without completed payment will not be processed.

4. Processing and Review

Once submitted, your application will be acknowledged in due course.

Identità officers will then review your submission and will contact you via email and portal if any clarifications or additional documents are required.

5. Processing Time

The standard processing time is up to six (6) months from the date your complete application is received. In exceptional circumstances linked to the complexity of the case, the time limit of six months may be extended by another period of six (6) months. Complex cases may take longer, particularly if additional checks or verifications with other authorities (e.g., police, security services) are necessary.

6. Decision

Once a decision is reached, you will receive a notification by email, through the online portal, or by post.

• If approved, you will be granted long-term resident status, and a letter of approval will be issued by email and by post (Please ensure that your home address is entered correctly.)
• A Biometrics appointment link will be sent by email for you to schedule an appointment.
• Once it is approved by the relevant stakeholders (e.g., the Police) and confirmed by Identità, a collection letter will be sent to your home address. You will then be able to come and collect your new residence card from Identità offices for the next six (6) months. The card is labelled “Long-Term Resident – EU” and is valid for five years.

7. If Refused

If your application is refused, you will receive a written explanation through the portal outlining the reasons for refusal and your right to appeal.

Common reasons include not meeting the five-year requirement, insufficient income, missing documentation, or failing the integration requirements.

You may appeal to the Immigration Appeals Board within the timeframe indicated in your decision letter.

You should submit your renewal before your residence card expires — ideally at least one month prior to expiry.

Again, the renewal process is completed online through Identità’s dedication portal  - https://expatriates.identita.gov.mt/ .

To renew:

1. Log in to the portal and complete the Long-Term Residence Renewal Form (Form L), selecting the renewal option.
2. Upload updated documents (as per requirements on checklist - https://identita.gov.mt/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/FORM-L.pdf
3. Pay the renewal fee of €500 securely online.
4. Once submitted and processed successfully, the applicant will be contacted (invitation for biometrics) to attend the appointment to verify originals and provide new biometric data (photo and fingerprints).

Your new residence card will be issued for another five-year validity period ensuring your rights remain uninterrupted.

Once you are granted long-term resident status, you do not need to reprove the original five-year residence or retake the integration and language exams at renewal.

However, you must ensure that you do not engage in anything that may lead to a loss of status.

During renewal, Identità will ask you to confirm that:

• You have not been outside the European Union for more than 12 consecutive months.
• You have not been absent from Malta for a continuous period of six (6) years.
• You have not obtained long-term resident status in another EU Member State.

These declarations will be verified during your renewal process to confirm that you have maintained genuine ties with Malta and the EU.

When renewing your Long-Term Residence permit, the following documents must be submitted through the Identità online portal (in PDF format):

1. Full copies of your passport(s) used during the last five (5) years prior to submission along with the Chronological List.

2. Declaration (Covering Letter) and supporting proof confirming that:

• You have not been outside the European Union for more than 12 consecutive months.
• You have not been absent from Malta for a continuous period of six (6) years.
• You have not acquired long-term resident status in another EU Member State.

3. Accommodation documents (only if your address has changed):

• A Lease Agreement Attestation Form — signed by the landlord and endorsed/stamped by a lawyer, notary, or legal procurator.
• A new lease agreement and housing attestation letter (available from Identità’s website).
• Architect Attestation signed and stamped by the architect at least 1 year prior to renewal submission date.

4. Supporting Financial Documentations:

• FS3’s for the last two (2) years signed and stamped by the employer. If Self-Employed, a profit and loss statement signed and stamped by the accountant or auditor.
• In some cases, the most recent six (6) months of payslips may be required.

Important Notes:

• Foreign documents must be translated into English or Maltese by a registered translator.
• The €500 renewal fee applies, covering a 5-year validity period for the new residence card.

No, once you have completed them and obtained status, you do not need to redo them at renewal.

Identità generally recommends applying a few months before your current card expires, to allow time for processing and avoid having an expired card. Often, you can apply one (1) to three (3) months before the expiry date. If the card expires before the new one is ready, your status is not lost, but it’s best to avoid gaps in having a valid card.

An application may be refused if the applicant does not meet the legal requirements or if there are public policy or security concerns.

Common reasons for refusal include:

• Not having five (5) years of continuous legal residence in Malta.
• Spending excessive time abroad, breaking the continuity requirement.
• Failing to meet the minimum income threshold and extra 20% per dependency.
• Submitting incomplete, missing, or invalid documentation.
• Failing to meet the integration or Maltese language test requirements.
• Having a serious criminal record or being considered a security risk.

If your application is refused, you will receive a notification by email explaining the reasons for refusal and informing you of your right to appeal.

You may submit an appeal to the Immigration Appeals Board within the period stated in the decision letter (3 working days from the date of notification).

Although long-term resident status is intended to be permanent, it may be revoked in certain circumstances. The main grounds for loss of status are:

• Fraudulent acquisition:
  If the status was obtained using false information, forged documents, or fraud, it may be withdrawn retroactively.
• Expulsion order:
  If you are subject to removal from Malta on grounds of national security or public policy, your long-term resident status may be withdrawn. (Note: Expulsion cannot be based on minor issues but only on serious crimes or threats.)
• Long absence from the EU (12 months):
  Remaining outside the European Union for 12 consecutive months or more will lead to loss of status.
• Obtaining long-term residence in another EU country:
  You cannot hold long-term resident status in more than one EU Member State. If you acquire such status elsewhere, the Maltese long-term resident status will automatically be withdrawn.
• Long absence from Malta (6 years):
  Even if you remain within the EU, living outside Malta for six consecutive years results in loss of status. (This typically applies to individuals residing continuously in another EU country.)
• Public policy or security threat after approval:
  If, after obtaining long-term residence, you commit a serious crime or are deemed a security risk, your status may be revoked.
• Loss of international protection (if applicable):
  If your long-term residence was granted based on refugee or subsidiary protection status, and that protection is later withdrawn or ceases, your long-term residence may also be revoked.

If Identità decides to revoke your status, you will be notified in writing and provided with reasons. You, have the right to appeal this decision before the Immigration Appeals Board, following the same procedures that apply to refusals.

If your long-term resident (LTR) status is revoked, you will also lose the rights associated with it. You must then either switch to another valid residence permit or apply for a new status. Your current LTR residence card will be cancelled once the revocation takes effect.
However, the revocation does not permanently prevent you from applying again in the future — you may reapply for long-term resident status once you meet the eligibility requirements again.

Yes. Holders of long-term resident status have full access to employment and self-employment in Malta without the need for a separate work permit.

However, certain positions within the public sector — particularly those involving the exercise of public authority (such as civil service or judicial roles) — and roles exclusively reserved for Maltese or EU nationals remain restricted.

In general, you may work in any private-sector occupation in Malta.

Yes. One of the main advantages of holding a Maltese long-term residence permit is facilitated mobility within the European Union, under the EU Long-Term Residence Directive.

With your Maltese long-term residence permit, you may:

• Travel to other EU Member States without a visa for short stays; and
• Apply to live, work, or study in another EU Member State under the EU long-term resident mobility provisions.

This means you do not have to start a new residence process from the beginning. You can apply for a residence permit in another Member State more easily, provided you show proof of employment, study, or sufficient financial means.

The host country must take your Maltese long-term resident status into account — often allowing a simplified application process (for example, without repeating full background checks). Some Member States may still require supporting documents such as a job offer or proof of accommodation.

This intra-EU mobility is one of the key benefits distinguishing long-term resident status from standard temporary permits.

The EU long-term resident mobility provision allows individuals who already hold EU long-term resident status in one Member State to move to and reside in another Member State without having to complete another five-year residence period.

If you are an EU long-term resident from another Member State (for example, Italy or Germany), you may enter Malta and apply for residence under the “Long-Term Resident – Mobility” category.

You do not require a visa to enter Malta for short stays of up to 90 days.

If you plan to stay in Malta for more than 3 months, you must apply for a Maltese residence permit within three (3) months of arrival.

This application is made under the category “Long-Term Resident from Another EU Member State Exercising Mobility”, in accordance with S.L. 217.05.
It enables recognised EU long-term residents to live, work, or study in Malta under a simplified procedure compared to ordinary residence applications.

Applicants who already hold EU long-term resident status from another Member State must meet requirements similar to those for new residence applicants in Malta, with a few key differences.

Application submission is done through Identità’s dedicated portal - Form

Required documents and conditions:

• Proof of LTR status:
  You must present your valid long-term residence permit issued by another EU country (or a certified copy). This serves as proof that you already hold EU long-term resident status elsewhere.
• Financial resources:
  You must demonstrate stable and regular income sufficient to support yourself and any accompanying family members without needing social assistance in Malta.
  The required income is higher than that for first-time applicants and must be at least the average gross wage in Malta, plus an additional 20% for each dependent family member.
  (The official average wage is published on the National Statistics Office website.)
• Accommodation:
  You must provide proof of suitable housing in Malta, such as a valid lease agreement, property deed, or housing registration document, along with any required attestations.
• Health insurance:
  You must hold comprehensive health insurance covering you (and your family members) for the duration of your stay.
• Integration requirements:
  You are required to meet Malta’s integration standards, with partial recognition possible if you completed a comparable course abroad. Specifically:
  • If you have already completed a comparable integration course (covering at least 100 hours with a minimum pass mark of 75%), Malta may recognise it.
  • However, you must still pass the Maltese language test (MQF Level 2, 65%), since this component is not included in most foreign courses.
  • If you have not completed an integration course before, you must attend Malta’s official “I Belong” course (100 hours) and obtain the required pass mark.
• Purpose-specific documentation:

  Depending on your reason for moving to Malta, you must also provide additional supporting documents:

  • Employment: A valid Maltese work permit or a formal job offer. (Note: The employment licence must be approved before you begin work.)
  • Self-Employment: Proof of your business plan, capital investment, or company registration in line with Maltese requirements.
  • Study: An official letter of acceptance or enrolment from a licensed Maltese educational institution, specifying your course details.
  • Other purposes (e.g. self-sufficiency or retirement): Bank statements, pension statements, or other financial documentation demonstrating adequate resources.