1. What is the Malta EU Blue Card and who is eligible to apply?

The Malta EU Blue Card is a residence permit that allows highly skilled non-EU nationals to live and work in Malta, as well as being able to travel within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Eligibility criteria for the Malta EU Blue Card include:

1. Possession of a higher education qualification or five years of professional experience that is relevant to the job being offered.
2. A valid job offer or employment contract from a Maltese employer.
3. The job offer must meet the minimum salary threshold, which is set at a level that is 1.5 times the average gross annual salary in Malta.
4. Applicants must also have adequate health insurance and sufficient means to support themselves during their stay in Malta.
5. Language proficiency in English or Maltese may also be required depending on the specific job role.

Overall, the Malta EU Blue Card is designed to attract and retain highly skilled workers to contribute to the Maltese economy and address skill shortages in certain sectors.

2. How does the application process for the Malta EU Blue Card work?

The application process for the Malta EU Blue Card involves several steps:

1. Eligibility Criteria: The first step is to ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for the EU Blue Card, which includes having a job offer in Malta with a salary meeting the threshold set by the Maltese authorities.

2. Employer Sponsorship: Your prospective employer in Malta must provide a signed employment contract or a binding job offer, specifying the terms and conditions of your employment, including salary and job responsibilities.

3. Application Submission: Once you have gathered all the necessary documents, including proof of qualifications, work experience, and a valid passport, you can submit your application for the EU Blue Card to the Maltese authorities.

4. Processing Time: The processing time for the EU Blue Card application can vary, but it typically takes a few months for a decision to be made.

5. Residence Permit: If your application is approved, you will receive a residence permit allowing you to work and reside in Malta. The EU Blue Card is typically issued for a period of one to four years, depending on the duration of the employment contract.

Overall, the application process for the Malta EU Blue Card involves demonstrating eligibility, obtaining employer sponsorship, submitting the required documents, and awaiting a decision from the Maltese authorities.

3. What are the benefits of holding a Malta EU Blue Card?

1. One of the key benefits of holding a Malta EU Blue Card is that it allows skilled non-EU workers to live and work in Malta legally. This provides individuals with access to the labor market in Malta and the ability to pursue career opportunities in the country.

2. Another advantage of the Malta EU Blue Card is that it offers holders certain rights and protections, such as access to social security benefits and healthcare services. This can provide a sense of security and stability for individuals and their families while living and working in Malta.

3. Additionally, holders of the Malta EU Blue Card may have the opportunity to bring their family members to join them in Malta. This can be important for individuals who wish to have their loved ones close by and create a home in Malta.

Overall, the Malta EU Blue Card offers numerous benefits for skilled non-EU workers seeking to establish themselves in Malta and pursue career opportunities in the country.

4. Can family members of Malta EU Blue Card holders join them in Malta?

Yes, family members of Malta EU Blue Card holders are allowed to join them in Malta. The family members that are eligible to accompany the Blue Card holder include their spouse and dependent children. It is important to note that family members also have the right to work in Malta without the need for an additional work permit. To join the Blue Card holder in Malta, family members must apply for a residence permit through the Malta Department of Citizenship and Expatriate Affairs. They will need to provide documentation proving their relationship to the Blue Card holder and demonstrate that they have sufficient financial means to support themselves while in Malta.

5. What are the requirements for obtaining a Malta EU Blue Card?

To obtain a Malta EU Blue Card, there are several requirements that applicants must meet:

1. Education: Applicants must have completed at least a higher education degree that comprises at least three years of study, or have a minimum of five years of professional experience relevant to the job they are being hired for.

2. Employment Contract: Applicants must have a valid employment contract or binding job offer with a Maltese employer for a period of at least one year.

3. Salary Threshold: The salary offered must be at least 1.5 times the average gross annual salary paid in Malta for the specific occupation or at least 60% of the average annual salary, depending on the specific circumstances.

4. Shortage Occupations: Applicants must be employed in a highly skilled occupation listed on Malta’s list of shortage occupations.

5. Qualifications: Applicants must provide proof of their qualifications and professional experience, as well as pass any necessary language proficiency tests.

Meeting these requirements is essential for successful applicants to obtain a Malta EU Blue Card, which grants them the right to live and work in Malta for a specified period.

6. How long is the validity period of the Malta EU Blue Card?

The Malta EU Blue Card is valid for a period of two years initially. It can be renewed for an additional two-year period if the conditions for issuing the card are still met by the cardholder. After holding the card for a total of five years, the EU Blue Card holder may be eligible for long-term resident status in Malta, which provides more permanent residency rights within the EU. It is important to note that the validity period of the Malta EU Blue Card is subject to meeting the necessary criteria and conditions throughout the validity of the card.

7. Can Malta EU Blue Card holders move to other EU countries?

Yes, Malta EU Blue Card holders have the opportunity to move to other EU countries. The EU Blue Card Directive allows holders of an EU Blue Card issued by one EU member state to move to another member state after 18 months of legal residence in the first member state. They must first apply for a new EU Blue Card in the desired country within one month of arrival. The conditions for the move include having a valid EU Blue Card, a valid work contract or job offer in the new member state, and meeting any additional requirements set by the host country. It allows for greater flexibility and mobility for highly skilled professionals within the European Union.

8. What is the minimum salary requirement for Malta EU Blue Card holders?

The minimum salary requirement for Malta EU Blue Card holders is set at 1.5 times the average gross annual salary in Malta. As of 2021, the average gross annual salary in Malta is around €20,000. Therefore, the minimum salary threshold for Blue Card holders in Malta would be approximately €30,000 per year. This requirement ensures that Blue Card holders are employed in positions that offer competitive compensation and contribute to the local economy. Meeting this salary threshold is crucial for obtaining and maintaining the EU Blue Card status in Malta.

9. Are there any language requirements for the Malta EU Blue Card?

Yes, there are language requirements for the Malta EU Blue Card. Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in either Maltese or English. This proficiency is usually proven through language tests or by providing evidence of previous education or work experience in either language. Meeting the language requirements is essential for obtaining the Blue Card in Malta, as it ensures that the individual can effectively communicate and integrate into the Maltese society and workforce. It is important for applicants to carefully assess and prepare for meeting these language requirements to enhance their chances of successfully obtaining the Malta EU Blue Card.

10. Can Malta EU Blue Card holders apply for permanent residency in Malta?

Yes, Malta EU Blue Card holders can eventually apply for permanent residency in Malta under certain conditions. In order to be eligible for permanent residency, Blue Card holders must have resided legally and continuously in Malta for a certain period of time, typically five years. During this period, they must also fulfill requirements such as demonstrating sufficient financial resources and integrating into Maltese society. Once these conditions are met, Blue Card holders can apply for permanent residency in Malta, granting them the right to reside in the country indefinitely and enjoy the benefits of Maltese citizenship, such as access to healthcare and education services.

11. What rights and social benefits do Malta EU Blue Card holders have?

Malta implemented the EU Blue Card directive in 2012, offering highly skilled third-country nationals the opportunity to live and work in the country. Holders of the Malta EU Blue Card are entitled to several rights and social benefits, including:

1. Residence Rights: Blue Card holders have the right to reside in Malta for the duration of their employment contract and can extend their stay if they find new employment in a related field.

2. Family Reunification: Blue Card holders can bring their immediate family members to Malta, including spouses and dependent children, who are also granted residence permits.

3. Access to the Labor Market: Blue Card holders can work in Malta in the field for which they obtained their Blue Card, with the same rights as Maltese nationals regarding working conditions, pay, and social security.

4. Social Security Benefits: Blue Card holders have access to social security benefits, including healthcare, pension contributions, and unemployment benefits, under the same conditions as Maltese citizens.

5. Employment Mobility: After residing in Malta for 18 months under the Blue Card scheme, holders can move to another EU Member State to take up employment, provided they meet the criteria of the new country’s Blue Card scheme.

6. Long-Term Residence Rights: Blue Card holders who have lived in Malta for at least five years continuously can apply for long-term residence status, granting them the right to reside in Malta indefinitely.

Overall, the Malta EU Blue Card provides a pathway for highly skilled workers to live and work in Malta while enjoying a range of rights and social benefits similar to those of Maltese citizens.

12. Are there any restrictions on the type of employment Malta EU Blue Card holders can seek?

Malta EU Blue Card holders are generally allowed to seek employment in any field or sector within the European Union. However, there are certain restrictions on the type of employment they can undertake in Malta specifically:

1. The employment must be in a highly skilled occupation that meets the minimum salary threshold set by the Maltese authorities.
2. Blue Card holders are not permitted to work in jobs that are deemed as low-skilled or unskilled.
3. The job must be full-time and comply with local labor laws and regulations.
4. Blue Card holders cannot engage in self-employment or start their own business in Malta under the Blue Card scheme.

Overall, while there are restrictions on the type of employment Malta EU Blue Card holders can seek, they are generally able to work in a wide range of high-skilled professions within the country.

13. Can Malta EU Blue Card holders bring their non-EU spouse and children with them to Malta?

Yes, Malta EU Blue Card holders have the right to bring their non-EU spouse and children with them to Malta. This is in accordance with the EU Blue Card directive that allows family reunification for Blue Card holders. The family members are usually granted a residence permit that allows them to live and work in Malta during the validity of the Blue Card holder’s EU Blue Card. However, certain conditions may apply, such as the need for the family members to prove their relationship with the Blue Card holder and meet other requirements set by Maltese immigration authorities. It is advisable for Blue Card holders to check the specific regulations and procedures related to family reunification in Malta to ensure a smooth and successful process for bringing their non-EU spouse and children to the country.

14. What are the obligations of Malta EU Blue Card holders in terms of residence and employment?

Malta EU Blue Card holders have certain obligations in terms of residence and employment. These include:

1. Residency Requirement: Blue Card holders are required to reside in Malta, the issuing EU member state, and notify the authorities of their place of residence within a certain timeframe of arrival.

2. Employment: Blue Card holders must engage in highly skilled employment for which the Blue Card was issued. They must inform the authorities of any changes in their employment status and seek permission for any job changes.

3. Reporting: Blue Card holders are obligated to comply with reporting requirements to the authorities, such as updating personal information, changes in employment status, and any other relevant details concerning their stay in Malta.

4. Renewal: Blue Card holders must ensure that their Blue Card is renewed in a timely manner before it expires to maintain their legal status in Malta.

It is vital for Blue Card holders to adhere to these obligations to ensure their continued legal residency and employment in Malta. Failure to comply with these requirements may result in the revocation of the Blue Card and possible legal consequences.

15. Can Malta EU Blue Card holders access healthcare and education services in Malta?

Yes, Malta EU Blue Card holders are entitled to access healthcare services in Malta. They can benefit from public healthcare services provided by the government, which are largely funded through taxation and available to all residents, including Blue Card holders. Blue Card holders can access medical treatment at public healthcare facilities, subject to the same conditions as Maltese citizens, including payment of any applicable fees or charges.

Blue Card holders in Malta also have the right to access education services. Children of Blue Card holders are entitled to enroll in Maltese schools, including state schools, where they can receive education in line with the Maltese curriculum. Blue Card holders may also be eligible for scholarships or other forms of financial assistance to support their education in Malta.

Overall, Malta EU Blue Card holders have the same rights and entitlements as Maltese citizens when it comes to accessing healthcare and education services in Malta, making it easier for them to integrate into Maltese society and contribute to the country’s workforce and economy.

16. Is there a quota or limit on the number of Malta EU Blue Cards that can be issued?

Yes, there is a limit on the number of Malta EU Blue Cards that can be issued. The number of Blue Cards issued in Malta is subject to an annual quota, which means that only a certain number of Blue Cards can be granted each year. This quota is determined by the Maltese authorities based on various factors such as labor market needs, economic conditions, and other relevant considerations. Once this quota is reached, no more Blue Cards can be issued until the following year. The quota system helps to ensure that the issuance of Blue Cards is in line with the needs of the Maltese economy and labor market.

17. How does taxation work for Malta EU Blue Card holders?

Malta EU Blue Card holders are subject to the local tax laws and regulations of Malta. As of 2021, the tax rates for individuals in Malta range from 0% to 35% depending on the income level. Here’s how taxation generally works for Malta EU Blue Card holders:

1. Residency: Blue Card holders are considered tax residents of Malta if they reside in the country for more than 183 days in a calendar year.

2. Taxable Income: Blue Card holders are taxed on their worldwide income in Malta. This includes income from employment, investments, and any other sources.

3. Progressive Tax System: Malta has a progressive tax system, meaning that the tax rates increase as income levels rise. The tax brackets typically start from 0% for the lower income levels and can go up to 35% for higher incomes.

4. Social Security Contributions: Blue Card holders may also be required to make social security contributions in Malta, which are typically deducted directly from their salary.

5. Tax Credits and Deductions: Malta offers various tax credits and deductions that may be applicable to Blue Card holders, such as deductions for specific expenses or tax credits for certain investments.

6. Double Taxation Agreements: Malta has double taxation agreements with various countries to prevent taxpayers from being taxed twice on the same income. Blue Card holders should check if their home country has such an agreement with Malta to avoid double taxation.

7. Tax Compliance: Blue Card holders must comply with all tax obligations in Malta, including filing annual tax returns and paying any taxes due on time to avoid penalties.

It is advisable for Blue Card holders in Malta to seek professional advice from a tax consultant or advisor to ensure compliance with the tax laws and to optimize their tax situation.

18. What is the processing time for Malta EU Blue Card applications?

The processing time for Malta EU Blue Card applications can vary depending on various factors such as the completeness of the application, the current workload of the authorities, and any additional documentation that may be required. On average, it usually takes around 90 days for a decision to be made on an EU Blue Card application in Malta. However, this timeline can fluctuate, and it is essential for applicants to ensure that they submit all necessary documents correctly and in a timely manner to avoid any delays in processing. Additionally, it is advisable to check the latest information from the relevant authorities or contact a legal expert specializing in EU Blue Card applications for the most up-to-date processing times.

19. Can Malta EU Blue Card holders apply for Maltese citizenship?

1. Malta EU Blue Card holders are not automatically eligible to apply for Maltese citizenship.
2. In order to be eligible for Maltese citizenship, Blue Card holders must comply with the requirements set out in Maltese nationality law.
3. Generally, individuals holding a Malta EU Blue Card can apply for Maltese citizenship after legally residing in Malta for a specified period of time, typically around 6 to 7 years.
4. During this period, Blue Card holders must maintain continuous residence in Malta, have a clean criminal record, and show integration into Maltese society.
5. Meeting these requirements can make Blue Card holders eligible to apply for Maltese citizenship through naturalization.
6. However, the final decision on citizenship applications is made by the Maltese government, taking into consideration various factors, including the individual’s conduct and contributions to Maltese society.

20. Are there any specific industries or professions that are more likely to qualify for the Malta EU Blue Card?

1. In Malta, the EU Blue Card is primarily aimed at highly skilled workers in specific industries or professions. Some industries or professions that are more likely to qualify for the Malta EU Blue Card include information technology, engineering, finance, healthcare, and research & development. These sectors often require specialized skills and qualifications, making them attractive for the Blue Card application. Additionally, jobs in these fields are usually in high demand in Malta and the EU as a whole, making it easier for individuals working in these industries to meet the employment criteria for the EU Blue Card. However, it’s important to note that eligibility for the EU Blue Card also depends on individual qualifications, work experience, and job offers from recognized employers in Malta.