Europe’s top visa options for digital nomads: Malta or Hungary?
Photo by Ljubomir Žarković on Unsplash
Europe offers multiple digital nomad visas designed to attract professionals seeking temporary residence while working remotely. Countries such as Greece, Hungary, Italy, Malta, Portugal and Spain have developed specific visa programs aimed at digital nomads. But with so many options, which country is the best fit?
Albert Ioffe, Legal and Compliance Officer at Immigrant Invest, focuses on Hungary and Malta Digital Nomad Visa, comparing their digital nomad visa opportunities to help you decide which is right for you.
Best digital nomad visas in Europe
Europe has many digital nomad visa options that attract freelancers, remote workers, and entrepreneurs. Some of the most popular programs include:
- Hungary Digital Nomad Visa. Hungary’s White Card is a flexible option that allows remote workers to live in the country for up to one year, with a potential extension.
- Italy Digital Nomad Visa offers a freelance visa, but the process can be lengthy and requires more documentation.
- Malta Nomad Residence Permit allows digital nomads to live in the country for up to one year, renewable for longer stays.
- Portugal Digital Nomad Visa is popular for remote workers who can show foreign income, but it also leads to potential long-term residency.
- Spain Digital Nomad Visa is a new digital nomad visa program designed to provide flexible residence options for remote workers and freelancers.
While each country offers its own advantages, Malta and Hungary stand out as attractive options for high-net-worth individuals looking for flexibility and a stable working environment.
Malta vs Hungary for digital nomads
Malta and Hungary offer different approaches to digital nomad visas, making them two of the most interesting options in Europe. Malta has a more developed program specifically for digital nomads, while Hungary’s program is more general, covering remote workers broadly.
Malta Nomad Visa focuses on attracting high-income professionals by providing an easy application process and favourable tax conditions. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate a monthly income of at least €3,500 earned outside of Malta.
Hungary’s White Card is more accessible in terms of income requirements but provides a shorter duration of stay compared to Malta. To qualify for Hungary’s White Card, applicants must prove a stable income over €3,000 per month. This ensures that digital nomads are financially independent during their stay.
Both countries offer a high quality of life, but Malta’s island setting with a more established expat community may appeal to those who prefer a warmer climate and proximity to international business hubs.
Benefits of Malta digital nomad visa
Malta’s Nomad Residence Permit offers several key benefits for digital nomads.
Longer stay flexibility. The permit allows you to stay for up to a year, with the option to renew for 4 years. This is useful for professionals looking to settle in for extended periods.
Tax advantages. Malta has several tax treaties with other countries, potentially reducing your tax burden as a digital nomad.
Strategic location. Malta’s location in the Mediterranean makes it an ideal base for travel across Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.
Also, Malta provides a modern infrastructure, excellent healthcare, and an international community, making it a strong contender for remote workers.
Hungary digital nomad opportunities
Hungary’s White Card provides a unique opportunity for digital nomads looking for a lower-cost European option. Some of the advantages of Hungary include:
Lower cost of living. Compared to Malta, Hungary’s living expenses are significantly lower, making it an attractive option for digital nomads who want to save on daily costs.
Access to Schengen Area. With Hungary’s White Card, you gain access to the Schengen Area, allowing you to travel freely across most European countries.
Central European hub. Hungary’s central location makes it a great base for exploring other European cities, with excellent transport links to Austria, Germany, and beyond.
For those who prioritise affordability while enjoying the perks of a European lifestyle, Hungary provides a solid alternative.
Can a digital nomad visa lead to permanent residency or citizenship?
A digital nomad visa alone does not guarantee permanent residency or citizenship in most European countries, including Malta and Hungary. However, there are pathways that can lead to more permanent status.
In Malta, after spending five years on a temporary residence permit, you may be eligible for long-term residency. While this doesn’t lead to automatic citizenship, it can be a step toward naturalisation.
In Hungary, the White Card is not designed to lead directly to permanent residency. However, after three years of continuous residence through other visa types, you may qualify for long-term residency or citizenship, especially if you invest or start a business.
It’s important to note that both countries offer separate programs, such as investment-based visas with the path to residency and citizenship.
Conclusion
Choosing between Malta and Hungary depends on your needs as a digital nomad. Malta offers a more streamlined visa process with favourable tax conditions and a strong expat community. Hungary, on the other hand, is a more affordable option with easy access to the rest of Europe.
If you are looking for a long-term base with excellent connectivity and a developed infrastructure, Malta’s Nomad Residence Permit may be your best bet. But if affordability and a central location in Europe are priorities, Hungary’s White Card provides an attractive option.