Spain and Malta offer residency options for remote workers. Both programs allow non-EU citizens to live and work in the country while earning income from foreign sources. Albert Ioffe, Legal and Compliance Officer at Immigrant Invest, compares the Malta Nomad Residence and Spain Nomad Visa programs, covering requirements, benefits, and the application process.
Spain Nomad Visa
Spanish Digital Nomad Visa allows remote workers to stay in the country for up to five years. It grants a residence permit with tax benefits.
Eligibility. Applicants must work remotely for a company registered outside Spain or own a foreign-based business. A minimum monthly income of €2,762 is required, which increases for dependents.
Key conditions. Nomads can work with Spanish clients as long as their income from Spain does not exceed 20% of their total earnings. Health insurance, a clean criminal record, and proof of accommodation are required. The Spanish government has streamlined the process, but processing times can vary depending on the consulate or local immigration office.
Lifestyle in Spain. Spain provides a lower cost of living compared to other Western European countries. Cities like Barcelona and Valencia have thriving nomad communities, co-working spaces, and a rich cultural scene. Spain offers excellent weather, diverse landscapes, and a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle.
Malta Nomad Residence
The Malta Nomad Residence Permit is designed for remote workers who want to live in Malta while earning income from abroad. The permit is valid for one year and can be renewed.
Eligibility. Applicants must prove they work remotely for a company registered outside Malta or run their own business serving foreign clients. Minimum income must be at least €3,500 per month.
Key conditions. Nomads cannot work for Maltese companies. They must have valid health insurance, a clean criminal record, and proof of accommodation. The application process is relatively straightforward, making it an attractive option for those looking for quick relocation. The cost of living in Malta varies depending on lifestyle, with rent and groceries being the primary expenses.
Lifestyle in Malta. The country offers a warm climate, English as an official language, and a relatively small but welcoming digital nomad community. The country has an expat scene, historical sites, and various outdoor activities, making it an appealing destination.
Comparison of Spain and Malta Digital Nomad Programs
Duration. Malta’s permit is valid for one year, renewable. Spain’s visa allows an initial stay of one year, with renewals extending up to five years.
Tax implications. Malta does not offer special tax benefits for digital nomads. Spain provides a favourable tax rate under the Beckham Law for the first six years.
Income requirements. Malta requires €3,500 per month. Spain’s requirement is €2,762 per month, slightly lower than Malta’s.
Work with local clients. Spain allows nomads to earn up to 20% of their income from Spanish clients. Malta restricts work to foreign clients only.
Family inclusion. Both programs allow family members to join, but additional income proof is needed.
Visa renewal and long-term stay. The Spanish visa allows for an extended stay of up to five years, making it more attractive for those looking for long-term stability. Malta requirements include annual renewals, which may be an inconvenience for some.
Benefits of Spain vs Malta Nomad Visas
Spain’s advantages. Longer stay duration, tax benefits, and the ability to work with local clients. Lower income threshold. A wide range of co-working spaces and an established nomad community.
Malta’s advantages. No local tax obligations for digital nomads, a simpler application process, and English as the official language. A smaller but more exclusive nomad environment.
Spain Nomad Visa Requirements
General requirements:
- minimum monthly income of €2,762;
- remote work for a foreign company or own a business with foreign clients;
- valid health insurance and clean criminal record;
- proof of accommodation in Spain;
- application fee, which varies by consulate.
Malta Nomad Residence Requirements
General requirements:
- annual income of at least €32,400;
- remote work for a foreign company or own a business with foreign clients;
- valid health insurance and clean criminal record;
- proof of accommodation in Malta;
- application fee, which may differ depending on circumstances.
Application Process
Spain. Applications can be submitted in Spain or through a Spanish consulate. Processing takes about 20 days. Residency cards must be collected in Spain. Additional paperwork may be required depending on nationality.
Malta. Applications are submitted online. Approval takes about 30 days. Residence cards must be collected in Malta. The process is relatively simple but requires detailed proof of income and work.
Conclusion
Spain offers longer residency, tax benefits, and flexibility in working with local clients. Malta has no tax obligations for nomads, a straightforward process, and English as the official language. The choice depends on priorities: tax savings in Spain or ease of settlement in Malta. Both countries offer a great quality of life, with Spain being more suitable for long-term stays and Malta offering a more exclusive setting for digital nomads.
