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Refugee Status (Stat ta' Refuġjat)

Residency Pathway PR PathwayThis visa can lead to permanent residency, the right to live and work here indefinitely without renewing your visa. Dependents Allowed Remote Work

At a Glance

Processing Time

Varies

Application Fee

Free

Stay Duration

Indefinite

Renewable

Dependents allowed

PR pathway

No job offer needed

Remote work OK

Overview

International protection granting permanent residence, travel documents, employment access, and social benefits to persons meeting the 1951 Refugee Convention criteria.

Refugee Status (Stat ta' Refuġjat) in Malta is governed by the International Protection Act (Chapter 420) and aligns with the 1951 Geneva Convention relating to the Status of Refugees and its 1967 Protocol. This status fills the critical humanitarian gap by providing international protection to individuals who cannot return to their home country due to a well-founded fear of persecution. It is a cornerstone of Malta's legal obligations, ensuring that those fleeing conflict or systemic abuse are granted a safe, legal, and protected residence.

This status is intended for individuals who have undergone a rigorous assessment by the International Protection Agency and have been recognized as refugees. It grants the beneficiary the right to reside in Malta, access to employment, and the issuance of travel documents. Unlike temporary permits, this status offers a higher level of security and integration, including access to state educational and medical services. It is distinct for its focus on providing long-term safety and rights to those in need of international protection.

Stay & Extensions

Status type

Permanent / indefinite

Requirements

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

Must be a third-country national or stateless person.

Must be outside the country of origin.

Must have a well-founded fear of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership of a particular social group.

Must be unable or unwilling to avail oneself of the protection of the country of origin.

Must be physically present in Malta to apply.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Any available travel documents or passports.

Evidence supporting the claim of persecution (if available).

Asylum Seeker Document (issued after registration).

Biometric data (fingerprints and photos).

Advantages & Considerations

Key Benefits

Right to remain in Malta pending a decision.
Access to employment (without needing a separate license once status is granted).
Access to state medical care and education.
Access to core social welfare benefits.
Protection against return to the country of origin (non-refoulement).

Worth Knowing

The process can be lengthy and complex.
False information can lead to negative outcomes or legal consequences.
Applicants must remain in Malta during the process; leaving may result in the application being withdrawn.
Subject to the Dublin Regulation (may be returned to another EU state if previously registered there).

Application Process

Contact the International Protection Agency (IPA) or inform Immigration Police/Detention Services upon arrival.

Attend a registration appointment at the IPA.

Undergo a personal interview to explain the reasons for fleeing.

Provide fingerprints and photographs for the European Central Database (EURODAC).

Wait for the assessment process (can take several months).

Receive a decision; if granted, apply for a residence permit.

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