How many years do I need to live in Malta before I can apply for EU Long-Term Residence?

EU Long-Term Residence status is built on a track record of legal residence. Identita requires that you have lived in Malta lawfully and continuously for at least five years immediately before you apply.

"Continuous" residence still allows for short trips away. Individual absences of up to six months are permitted, and your total time outside Malta across the five years must not exceed ten months when added together. Staying away longer than these limits can break the qualifying period, so plan extended travel carefully during the run-up to your application.