What is the e-Residence card?
The e-Residence card is your Malta ID card as a foreign resident. It shows your name, photo and your right to live in Malta. It is issued by Identità, the government agency for ID cards and residence.
You need it if you stay in Malta for more than 3 months. You also need it for many everyday things: opening a bank account, getting a tax number, using public healthcare and getting a free Tallinja bus card.
EU and non-EU citizens
| EU, EEA and Swiss citizens | Non-EU citizens | |
|---|---|---|
| Do I need a permit first? | No. You have the right to live here | Yes. The card comes with your permit (for example a Single Permit or Nomad permit) |
| What is the card based on? | Work, self-employment, study, or enough money and health insurance | The permit you were given |
| How long is it valid? | Usually 5 years | Usually the same as your permit (often 1 year) |
| After 5 years | You can apply for permanent residence | You may be able to apply for long-term residence |
How to apply, step by step
- Find a home and register the lease. Your rental contract must be registered with the Housing Authority. This is your proof of address. See our Renting guide.
- Get your documents ready (see the list below).
- Apply to Identità. EU citizens apply on the Identità Expatriates website with the right form (for example the form for employment or self-employment). Non-EU citizens apply as part of their permit.
- Book an appointment. Go to the Identità office in person to give your photo, signature and, for non-EU citizens, fingerprints.
- Collect your card. Identità tells you when the card is ready. Bring your passport when you collect it.
Documents you usually need
- Valid passport or national ID card
- Registered lease or proof of where you live
- Proof of why you are in Malta, for example:
- Employee: your work contract and the Jobsplus engagement form
- Self-employed: your Jobsplus self-employed registration and VAT number
- Student: a letter from your school or university
- Not working: proof of enough money and health insurance
- Passport photos, if asked
The exact list depends on your situation. Check the form on the Identità website before your appointment, so you do not need to come back.
Changing your address or losing your card
- New address? Tell Identità when you move. Fill in the change of address form and bring your new registered lease.
- Lost or stolen card? Report it to the police first. Then apply for a new card at Identità and bring the police report.
- Card expiring? Apply to renew before it expires. Non-EU citizens should renew their permit about 2 months before it ends.
Good to know
Appointments at Identità can be busy. Book early, and arrive on time with all your documents.
For work permits and visas, see Permits and IDs. For other ways to live in Malta, see Residence Programmes.