What is the difference between Family Reunification and Family Members Policy in Malta?

Family Reunification (S.L. 217.06) is the formal EU-framework route requiring gross average wage plus 20% per dependent (around €29,971 for a spouse). The Family Members Policy is Malta's ex-gratia route with a lower net median wage threshold (€18,940 base), allows multiple income sources, but does not automatically grant the spouse the right to work.

Can two salaries be combined for family reunification in Malta?

Under the formal Family Reunification route (S.L. 217.06), only the sponsor's income counts. Under the Family Members Policy, Malta allows multiple declared income sources to be considered when assessing the threshold.

Can my spouse work in Malta on a family permit?

It depends on the route. Under Family Reunification, spouses may apply for a work permit. Under the Family Members Policy, the right to work is not automatically granted and must be assessed separately.

What are the income requirements for family reunification in Malta 2026?

Under S.L. 217.06 (Family Reunification): gross average wage plus 20% per dependent — approximately €29,971 for one dependent. Under the Family Members Policy: net median wage (€18,940) plus 20% per dependent. For a spouse and two children, this is approximately €30,304 net annually.

How long does family reunification take in Malta?

Processing times vary. Identità Malta does not publish guaranteed timelines. Most applicants wait several months. Delays are common due to document verification requirements.

Pathways

Bring Your Family to Malta

Malta has multiple family routes, and they are not interchangeable. Choosing the wrong one can waste months. Understand the differences before you apply.

These are different routes

Family Reunification and the Family Members Policy are not the same thing. They have different eligibility rules, different financial thresholds, different work rights for family members, and different processing paths. Read both guides before deciding.

Which family route should I read first?

Family Reunification and the Family Members Policy solve different problems. This chooser helps you avoid mixing them up.

No approval guarantees

Has the sponsor lived lawfully in Malta for at least 12 months?

Is your family member already in Malta or in a status gap?

Does your spouse's right to work matter from the start?

Can the sponsor likely meet the higher formal income threshold?

Family Reunification

Formal route

The formal EU-framework route. Requires stable resources, accommodation, and meets specific financial thresholds.

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Family Members Policy

Ex-gratia policy

Malta's ex-gratia policy with different thresholds, residency requirements, and work rights rules. Not the same as Reunification.

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Can My Spouse Work?

Work rights

Work rights differ between family routes and depend on your sponsor's permit type. This guide explains what applies to your situation.

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