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Researcher Residence Permit
VisasMaltaResearcher Residence Permit
MaltaMalta•Europe
Open

Researcher Residence Permit

Working Holiday

At a Glance

Processing Time

2-3 months

Application Fee

Free

Stay Duration

Duration of the hosting agreement

Renewable

No

Job Offer

Not Required

Dependents

Not Specified

PR Pathway

No

Remote Work

Not Required

Overview

The Researcher Residence Permit is a specialized immigration pathway designed to attract highly qualified talent to Malta's research and innovation sector. Aligned with EU Directive 2016/801, this permit facilitates the entry and stay of third-country nationals who possess advanced academic credentials and have been selected by an accredited Maltese research organization to conduct specific scientific or academic projects. It serves as a streamlined mechanism for researchers to contribute to Malta's intellectual and technological development.

This permit is specifically for researchers who hold at least a Master's degree or equivalent qualification that would allow them to pursue doctoral studies. By requiring a formal hosting agreement, the permit ensures that the researcher is integrated into a recognized institution with defined working conditions. It is ideal for scholars, scientists, and academics looking to carry out research in Malta, offering them a clear legal framework to reside and work while fostering international collaboration and mobility within the European research area.

Conversion Paths

Visas you can typically switch to from this status.

Type D — Employment Visa
Malta flagMalta

Type D — Employment Visa

ValidityVaries (Renewable annually with continued employment)
ProcessingVaries
View Visa Details
EU Long-Term Residence Status
Malta flagMalta

EU Long-Term Residence Status

ValidityIndefinite (residence permit issued for 5-year periods)
Processing6-12 months
View Visa Details

Requirements

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

Valid travel document (passport)

Signed hosting agreement with an accredited Maltese research organisation

Proof of adequate higher education qualifications (typically Master's degree or higher)

Proof of financial resources

Valid health insurance

KEY CRITERIA

Education

master or higher

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Signed hosting agreement on an approved project.

Proof of adequate qualifications (academic certificates).

Valid travel document (passport).

Proof of financial resources.

Health insurance policy.

Parental authorization (if the applicant is a minor).

Completed application form via the Single Permit Online Portal.

Advantages & Considerations

Key Benefits

  • Specifically designed for highly qualified researchers.
  • Facilitates mobility within the EU for research purposes.
  • Allows for family reunification under specific conditions.
  • Streamlined process through accredited research organizations.

Worth Knowing

  • Applications must be submitted by the accredited research organisation, not the individual
  • Requires a valid hosting agreement with an institution accredited by the Malta Council for Science and Technology
  • If a visa is required for entry, it must be obtained prior to arrival in Malta

Application Process

1

Research organization obtains approval from MCST to host the researcher.

2

Researcher and organization sign a hosting agreement.

3

Organization applies for the permit via the Single Permit Online Portal.

4

Researcher confirms the application and validates information via a link.

5

Organization submits the final application and pays the fees.

6

Identità processes the application.

7

Upon approval, the researcher travels to Malta and completes biometric registration at Identità.

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