Self-Employment License
Malta
Last updated: December 26, 2025
1 year (renewable)
$270-$275
2-6 months
High
About this Visa
This visa lets non-EU workers start their own business in Malta. You work for yourself instead of being hired by a company. The government only approves this visa in special situations, not for everyone. This visa is hard to get. You need either €500,000 to invest in Malta, special skills and qualifications, or a project that Malta Enterprise approves. Most people don't qualify.
Key Benefits
- Work as your own boss in Malta
- Bring spouse and children to live with you
- Access to free healthcare (after paying social security)
- Travel anywhere in Europe without a visa (Schengen Area)
- After 5 years: apply for permanent residence
- After 5 years: apply for Malta citizenship
- Family members receive residence permits
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be 18 years old or older
- No criminal record ever
- Must have valid health insurance
- Must meet one of three financial requirements: €500,000 investment in fixed assets OR Master's degree with unique business idea plus ability to hire 3+ European workers OR Malta Enterprise project approval
- Must prove business is real and viable
- Cannot be from a banned country
- Cannot have previous illegal stays in Malta
- Must have clean police background check
Financial Requirement
Option 1: €500,000 investment in fixed assets (real estate, machinery, equipment) in your name, deployed within 6 months, verified by Maltese bank. Option 2: Master's degree or higher qualification plus unique business idea plus commitment to hire 3+ European workers within 18 months. Option 3: Malta Enterprise project approval.
Documents
- Valid passportAll pages including blank pages
- Current residence permit or visaCertified copy of valid permit
- Resume/CVSigned by applicant
- Police record checkFrom country of residence or nationality, proves no criminal history
- Health insurance policyCovering Malta and EU, comprehensive coverage
- Proof of accommodationLease agreement or property purchase agreement in your name
- Business planDetailed plan showing what your business will do
- Bank letterFrom Maltese bank confirming €500,000 available (if using investment option)
- Qualifications certificatesMaster's degree or higher with MQRIC recognition (if using innovation option)
- Malta Enterprise approval letterProject approval document (if using Malta Enterprise option)
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.