Once the EEA national (and his/her family members) has lived in Malta for a continuous period of five years s/he is entitled to apply for confirmation of permanent residence. It is required that s/he has been living legally in Malta and has been in employment, or self-employment, or as a student or economically self-sufficient person throughout the five years. For residence in Malta to be considered continuous, one must not have been absent from Malta for more than six months each year. Additionally, a single absence of a maximum of 12 months for important reasons such as pregnancy, childbirth, serious illness, study, vocational training, or posting overseas will also not affect the required continuous residence.

NON-EU INDIVIDUALS

Residence permits to third-country nationals (TCNs) are issued in a standalone plastic card with electronic features. Residence permits are issued to TCNs authorized to reside in Malta for a specific purpose. This purpose could be:

• Employment
• Self-employment
• Economic self-sufficiency
• Studying in Malta
• Family Reunification
• Long-term residence
• Partners of a Maltese Citizen / EU Citizen
• Exemption under national legislation
• Highly qualified employment
• Other reasons

The applicant has to present the necessary documents supporting his/her claim – a copy of a work permit for employment, a copy of a work permit/trading license for self-employment, and hospital or medical certification in the case of health reasons, amongst other matters documents.