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Head to head

Kenya vs Malta: the digital nomad visas compared

Partially verified Last verified June 15, 2026 Reviewed by Henry van de Vorming

The short version

  • Kenya has the lower entry bar: €1,850 per month versus €3,500 for Malta.
  • Kenya grants a longer initial stay (24 months vs 12), and it is renewable.
  • Tax treatment differs: Kenya — standard resident taxation; Malta — special tax regime. Tax outcomes depend heavily on personal circumstances.
Side-by-side comparison of the Kenya Class N Permit and the Malta NRP.
Criteria Kenya Class N Permit Malta NRP
Minimum income / month €1,850 (better) €3,500
Income basis Salary / employment contract Mixed (salary, freelance or savings)
Initial duration 2 years (better) 1 year
Renewable Yes Yes
Maximum total stay No fixed limit 4 years
Path to permanent residence Indirect (switch required) No
Path to citizenship No No
Family inclusion Yes Yes
Working for local clients Not allowed Not allowed
Tax treatment Standard resident taxation Special tax regime (Nomad Residence Permits (Income Tax) Rules (S.L. 123.210))
Health insurance Required in practice Required (explicit), min. €100,000
Insurance duration required Full visa period Full visa period
Application fee ≈ €185 (better) ≈ €300
Where to apply Online, In country Online, Embassy / consulate
Processing time — 6 weeks

Green values mark the objectively better number in that row.

Full guide

Kenya Class N Permit →

Requirements, application steps, insurance and sources.

Full guide

Malta NRP →

Requirements, application steps, insurance and sources.

Don't forget insurance

Both programs have their own health-insurance rules — we match plans against each one's published requirement, with the evidence shown.

Insurance for Kenya → Insurance for Malta →

Sources