Malta Family Reunification 2026: Complete Salary Requirements Guide
Planning to bring your family to Malta? This comprehensive guide explains the two main schemes for family reunification, their salary requirements, and how to calculate the minimum income you need.
1. Overview
Malta offers pathways for non-EU nationals (Third Country Nationals - TCN) to bring their family members to live with them. The key requirement is demonstrating sufficient income to support your family without relying on Malta's social assistance system.
The income requirements are based on the national average/median wage, with an additional percentage for each family member you wish to sponsor.
Who Can You Sponsor?
- • Spouse or registered partner
- • Minor children (under 18)
- • Adult dependent children
- • Dependent parents (in some cases)
Who Is This For?
- • Non-EU workers in Malta
- • Single Permit holders
- • Long-term residents
- • TCN with valid residence
2. Two Schemes Explained
Malta has two distinct schemes for family reunification, each with different salary calculation methods:
Family Reunification (S.L. 217.6)
The primary legal framework for family reunification under Malta immigration law.
💰 Salary Requirement:
Average Wage (Gross) + 20% per family member
Family Member Policy
An alternative policy managed by Identità for specific cases.
💰 Salary Requirement:
€18,940 Net + 20% of median wage per family member
Important Note
The average/median wage figures are updated periodically by the National Statistics Office (NSO). Always check with Identità Malta for the latest requirements.
3. Salary Requirements (2025 Figures)
| Family Members | Family Reunification (Gross) | Family Member Policy (Net) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 member | €29,971/year (€2,498/month) | €22,728/year (€1,894/month) |
| 2 members | €34,966/year (€2,914/month) | €26,516/year (€2,210/month) |
| 3 members | €39,962/year (€3,330/month) | €30,304/year (€2,525/month) |
| 4 members | €44,957/year (€3,746/month) | €34,092/year (€2,841/month) |
* Based on 2025 average wage of €24,976 (gross) and median of €18,940 (net)
4. Calculation Examples
Example 1: Sponsoring Spouse Only
Family Reunification:
€24,976 + (€24,976 × 20%) = €29,971 gross/year
Family Member Policy:
€18,940 + (€18,940 × 20%) = €22,728 net/year
Example 2: Sponsoring Spouse + 2 Children
Family Reunification:
€24,976 + (€24,976 × 20% × 3) = €39,962 gross/year
Family Member Policy:
€18,940 + (€18,940 × 20% × 3) = €30,304 net/year
5. Required Documents
When applying for family reunification, you typically need:
For the Sponsor
- • Valid residence permit
- • Employment contract
- • Recent payslips (3-6 months)
- • Tax returns (FS3)
- • Proof of accommodation
- • Health insurance
For Family Members
- • Valid passport
- • Marriage certificate (for spouse)
- • Birth certificates (for children)
- • Police clearance certificates
- • Medical certificates
- • Photos (passport size)
6. Application Process
Gather Documents
Collect all required documents and have them translated/apostilled if needed.
Submit Application
Apply through Identità Malta (online or in person).
Pay Fees
Pay the application and residence permit fees.
Wait for Approval
Processing typically takes 3-6 months. Your family can apply for visa once approved.
7. Frequently Asked Questions
Which scheme should I apply under?
Family Reunification (S.L. 217.6) is the main legal pathway. Family Member Policy is typically for specific situations. Consult Identità Malta for guidance.
Can I combine income with my spouse?
Generally, the sponsor must demonstrate sufficient individual income. Joint income may be considered in specific circumstances.
How long does the process take?
Typical processing time is 3-6 months, but can vary depending on complexity and document verification requirements.
Can my family work in Malta?
Family members may apply for work permits after receiving residence status. Specific conditions apply.
Calculate Your Salary Requirement
Use our Family Reunification Calculator to find out the exact minimum salary you need to sponsor your family members under both schemes.
Calculate NowMalta Calculator Editorial Team
Financial Content Specialists | Malta Tax & Employment Experts
Our team specializes in Maltese tax law, social security contributions, and employment regulations. All content is reviewed against official sources from the Malta Commissioner for Revenue and the Department of Social Security.
Official Sources
Data verified as of 2 February 2026. Rates and thresholds are subject to change based on Malta government budget announcements.
Share this article
this process is honestly so stressful. been waiting 4 months for my wife's visa. the salary threshold information here is accurate though - make sure you meet it before applying!
hang in there! ours took 5 months but finally got approved. the waiting is the hardest part. make sure all your documents are perfect the first time to avoid delays
Thank you for such a detailed guide! My husband works in Malta and we're applying for family reunification. The document checklist at the end saved us a lot of time and confusion 💕
Good guide but I want to add - make sure your accommodation meets the requirements too. Identity Malta checks that your apartment/house is adequate for the number of family members.
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