🛂 Visa comparison
Greece vs Malta digital nomad visa
Two of the nomad visas Americans compare most, side by side: what each asks for, how long it lasts, where it leads, and what life costs in each country.
The short version
- Malta's income bar is lower: about $3,102 a month vs $4,022.
- Life is cheaper in Greece: from $1,679 a month all-in in Athens, vs $2,370 in Valletta.
- Lighter tax once resident in Malta (friendly vs moderate).
Side by side
| Measure | 🇬🇷 Greece | 🇲🇹 Malta |
|---|---|---|
| 🛂 Visa | Digital Nomad Visa | Nomad Residence Permit |
| 💵 Income needed | €3,500/mo NET (after taxes, the overlooked trap) | €2,700/mo (~€32,400/yr) |
| ≈ In US dollars | $4,022/mo | $3,102/mo |
| 💳 Fees | ~€75 | €300 |
| ⏳ Length | 1 yr visa, 2-yr residence permit | 1 yr |
| 🔁 Renewal | Yes (permit renewable) | Yes, up to 4 yrs total |
| 🏠 Path to residency | Nomad visa years generally do not count toward PR, dead-end for citizenship | Nomad permit years don't count toward PR |
| 🧾 Tax once resident | 🟡 Moderate · Worldwide income, top 44% | 🟢 Friendly · Foreign income only if brought in, top 35% |
| 🗓️ Visa-free visit first | 90 days | 90 days |
| 💰 Cheapest city, all-in | $1,679 · Athens | $2,370 · Valletta |
General reference, not immigration or tax advice. Income figures in US dollars are converted at current rates from each visa's own requirement; confirm with the consulate before applying.