A Guide for Non-EU Nationals
Non-EU national seeking long-term residency in Malta maybe granted one if they meet specific criteria issued by Identità. Malta has become home to many Third-Country Nationals (TCN), and many have been residing here for many years. This fact has led to various family reunification applications as well as long term residency applications.
Long-Term Residence (LTR) may be granted to TCNs residing in Malta who meet certain criteria and this LTR permit entitles the holder and family members to remain in Malta permanently. Malta offers a lot of work opportunities, good quality of life and healthcare. Beyond this, the country’s location provides easy access to Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. This combination of benefits has made Malta attractive to expatriates from around the world.
If you’re a non-EU national considering long-term residency, here are the key criteria that must be met:
Residency Duration: You must have legally and continuously resided in Malta for at least five (5) years. You will be asked for proof. You will also need to show a chronological list of dates of arrival and departures from the territory of the EU.
Covering Letter: You must provide a covering letter explaining the intentions to apply for the long-term resident status, your story in Malta, including accurate information on your first settlement in Malta, the nature of the stay throughout the years, and the existence of any family members.
Stable Financial Resources: Proof of a stable income, demonstrating your ability to support yourself (and your family, if applicable), without reliance on social assistance. You will need to provide tax declarations from previous years.
Accommodation: You must own or rent a suitable home in Malta, including a certificate by a warranted architect.
Integration Measures: You need to fulfil the integration requirements outlined in Subsidiary Legislation 217.05, which include language proficiency and an understanding of Maltese culture. The I Belong course is provided by the Human Rights and Integration Directorate and must include confirmation of at least 100 hours of attendance and the achievement of an examination pass mark of at least 75%, obtained at most 12 months before the date of application. You will also need a pass mark of at least 65% in MQF Level 2 Maltese language certificate and documentation showing that the relevant course fees have been paid.
Once you meet these conditions, you are eligible to apply for long-term residency status through Identità. At Sciberras Advocates, we provide comprehensive legal support to guide you through every step of the application process for Long-Term Residence. Our services include eligibility assessment, document preparation, application submission, follow-up and appeals.
With years of experience in immigration law, Sciberras Advocates has helped numerous Third Country National clients navigate Malta’s residency laws. If you require our assistance with the LTR application, or any other immigration procedures, overstays, or appeals in Malta, please get in touch on [email protected].
This article is for information purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice.
Article and research done by Ms Caitlin Turner, currently reading a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) at University of Malta
Sciberras Advocates founded by Dr Adrian Sciberras, is a law firm based in Malta. The firm prides itself to be multi-disciplinary, innovative and flexible in order to meet the changing times and any challenges in the local and international legal scenario. No matter what private or corporate complex demands are called for, Sciberras Advocates offers practical and cost-effective legal solutions to achieve your desired results. You may reach Sciberras Advocates by phone on +35627795222 or via email on [email protected].
