🛂 Visa comparison
Italy 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
- Italy's income bar is lower: about $2,681 a month vs $3,102.
- Life is cheaper in Italy: from $2,237 a month all-in in Rome, vs $2,370 in Valletta.
- Lighter tax once resident in Malta (friendly vs heavy).
Side by side
| Measure | 🇮🇹 Italy | 🇲🇹 Malta |
|---|---|---|
| 🛂 Visa | Digital Nomad Visa (2024) | Nomad Residence Permit |
| 💵 Income needed | ~€28,000/yr (recent sources; ~€2,333/mo), some report €32,400 + €30k savings; consulates vary, verify yours | €2,700/mo (~€32,400/yr) |
| ≈ In US dollars | $2,681/mo | $3,102/mo |
| 💳 Fees | ~€116 | €300 |
| ⏳ Length | 1 yr | 1 yr |
| 🔁 Renewal | Yes | Yes, up to 4 yrs total |
| 🏠 Path to residency | PR at 5 yrs; citizenship at 10 | Nomad permit years don't count toward PR |
| 🧾 Tax once resident | 🔴 Heavy · Worldwide income, top 43% | 🟢 Friendly · Foreign income only if brought in, top 35% |
| 🗓️ Visa-free visit first | 90 days | 90 days |
| 💰 Cheapest city, all-in | $2,237 · Rome | $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.