Malta ID Card 2025: Karta tal-Identità, e-ID, application, price
Official guide for Maltese ID card ✓ e-ID digital identity ✓ €50
Last updated: | Next review: 1 August 2025
✓ Official sources: All links go directly to Maltese government websites. Malta's e-ID system is fully eIDAS compliant - get your digital identity today! Malta leading in blockchain & digital innovation 2025!
🔍 Popular searches: identità malta booking • karta tal-identità renewal • malta e-id system • expat residence permit • crypto visa malta • gaming license residency • english speaking eu country
Complete guide for Malta ID card 2025. Karta tal-Identità, e-ID digital identity system, costs and application process. Especially popular among American tech workers and crypto professionals. Compare with other EU countries: Italy (€22), Spain (€12), Cyprus (€52), France (€25).
🆕 New 2025: High-tech polycarbonate ID cards with enhanced security features. Digital ID wallet tender announced - Malta leading EU in digital identity! ✨
💡 Insider tip: Avoid Valletta main office. Try Paola, Qormi or Gozo offices for shorter queues. Alternative collection points available with 10-day service.
"Malta's e-ID system is amazing! Government services, digital signatures, all from my phone. Perfect for crypto business!"
– Michael, blockchain developer from California
ℹ️ Malta National ID Card 2025
The Karta tal-Identità is the official identity document issued by Identità Malta. Used for identification in Malta and travel within EU/Schengen. Now with new high-tech security features and e-ID capabilities!
🎯 Key Features
Travel in EU/Schengen (30+ countries)
Identification in Malta
e-ID chip integrated
eIDAS compliant
📋 Specifications
Validity: 10 years (5 for minors)
Biometric photo ICAO
Security chip
Delivery: 10 working days
🆕 Malta Digital 2025
New ID cards - Polycarbonate with enhanced security
🌍 International comparison: Malta's e-ID system ranks among top EU countries. Full eIDAS compliance enables cross-border authentication with all EU member states.
The national ID card is ONLY for Maltese citizens. EU citizens get eResidence documents, non-EU citizens get residence permits through various programs.
📋 eResidence for EU Citizens
EU/EEA nationals staying longer than 3 months need eResidence documentation.
🚀 Blockchain Island - Why Tech Workers Choose Malta
🏢 Major Players
💰 Binance - Crypto
🎮 Betsson - Gaming
🪙 OKX - Exchange
🎯 Evolution - Live casino
⚡ Crypto.com - DeFi
🎰 Pragmatic - Slots
💰 Salaries 2025
Blockchain Developer: €60,000-90,000/year
Crypto Analyst: €50,000-75,000/year
Gaming Tech Lead: €70,000-100,000/year
+ Stock options & crypto bonuses
≈ $5,500-$9,200 USD/month
🎯 Why Americans love Malta
🏖️ Lifestyle: 300 days sunshine
🗣️ Language: English official
💸 Tax: Crypto-friendly regime
✈️ Location: 2hr to major EU cities
🏥 Healthcare: Excellent & affordable
🌊 Culture: Mediterranean lifestyle
📋 Residence Options for Tech Workers
1. Nomad Permit 📱
Min €3,500/month income. 1 year renewable. Apply: here
2. MPRP Investment 💰
Property + donation route. Permanent residence. Family included.
3. Work Permit 💼
Through employer. Fast-track for blockchain/gaming. EU Blue Card available.
4. Startup Visa 🚀
For innovative startups. 3-year residence. Path to permanent.
💡 Tax Benefits
Malta offers attractive tax regime for crypto and remote workers. No wealth tax, territorial taxation for non-domiciled residents. Consult tax advisor for personalized advice.
⚡ Alternative Collection Points
Can't make it to main office? Malta offers alternative collection points with 10-day service - perfect for busy professionals!
⏰ Process
Apply at any Identità office
Choose collection point
Wait 10 working days
Collect with receipt
📍 Locations
Local councils
Selected post offices
Gozo ministry office
Check full list online
⚠️ Note: Alternative collection adds no extra cost but extends delivery to 10 days. Perfect if you live far from main offices.
Visit identita.gov.mt/booking-system and select your preferred office and time. Separate booking systems for Maltese citizens, EU nationals, and non-EU nationals. Tip: Early morning slots have shorter wait times.
Where can I get biometric photo fastest?
Upload your photo at Rostrio.com for automatic verification to Maltese requirements. Ready in 3 minutes, 100% approved by Identità.
What's the total cost for ID card?
ID card: €50 Photo (Rostrio): ~€8 Transport to office: €5-20 e-ID activation: Free TOTAL: €63-78 (≈ $69-85)
Can Americans/foreigners get Maltese ID card?
No - the national ID card is only for Maltese citizens. Americans need Maltese citizenship first (requires 5+ years residence). Alternative: Nomad Residence Permit allows living and working in Malta, then get eResidence card.
What's the difference between e-ID and physical card?
Physical card: For identification and EU travel e-ID chip: Digital authentication for online services Both integrated: Modern cards have chip embedded Digital wallet: Coming 2025 for mobile access
How long does ID card take?
Standard: 10 working days Alternative collection: 10 working days eResidence (EU): 48 hours Work permit: 2-4 weeks
Can I use ID card for travel outside EU?
No - ID card only valid for EU/Schengen (30+ countries). For USA, Asia, Africa, etc. you need Maltese passport. Note: ID card not valid for UK post-Brexit.
What if I lose my ID card abroad?
Contact nearest Maltese embassy/consulate immediately. They can issue emergency travel document for return to Malta. Tip: Save photo of ID card in cloud before traveling.