Why Esports professionals are looking to Malta for mobility solutions

In the fast-paced world of esports, agility extends far beyond the game screen. For professional players and international organisations, mobility is not a luxury – it is a core operational requirement.

As esports continues to grow globally, many players and teams are still grappling with outdated immigration systems that have not kept pace with the industry’s rapid evolution.

Visas and bureaucracy

Unlike traditional sports leagues, which benefit from long-established visa frameworks, esports teams often qualify for events at short notice. This creates pressure on visa systems that require extensive documentation, interviews, and weeks of processing.

“Esports is a global industry, but immigration frameworks remain very much regional,” explains Chris Cachia, Co-Founder and Director of Bloxx Bureau, and Mariella Baldacchino, Founder of Empleo.

“We regularly see cases where non-EU esports professionals face last-minute visa approvals, or worse, rejections, simply because the system isn’t built to accommodate their needs,” they note.

A common issue is the misunderstanding or misuse of short-term visas, which are typically capped at 90 days within any 180-day period. Esports players often unknowingly breach these limits, resulting in overstays or future travel complications – a costly mistake for individuals and organisations alike.

Malta’s growing appeal as a European base

With these challenges in mind, Malta has emerged as an increasingly attractive base for international esports players and companies. In addition to hosting major tournaments such as the ESL Pro League, Malta is already home to the European operations of high-profile organisations including TALON Esports and FURIA Esports.

Malta’s positioning within the EU, coupled with its English-speaking environment and established gaming sector, make it a compelling hub for global esports businesses.

“Malta has positioned itself as a welcoming jurisdiction for esports talent – not just as a venue, but as a home base,” they add. “The infrastructure and legal frameworks are evolving to meet the industry’s needs.”

Nomad Residence Permit

One such framework is Malta’s Nomad Residence Permit, which allows non-EU nationals to live in Malta while working remotely. While not designed exclusively for esports, it has become a relevant option for players earning income through international contracts, sponsorships, or digital platforms such as Twitch and YouTube.

The permit requires proof of a minimum annual gross income of €42,000, accommodation for at least 12 months, and a straightforward application process. Crucially, it also provides access to the Schengen Area, enabling ease of travel across much of Europe.

“The benefit here is not just legal clarity,” they add, “but also the peace of mind that players and organisations are operating within a predictable, supportive system.”

Next steps

As part of its €3.5 million investment in the esports sector, announced in the 2025 national budget, Malta is also working on a dedicated visa tailored specifically to esports athletes. This aims to further streamline entry requirements and support the industry’s unique needs.

While details of the new visa are still emerging, the move reflects Malta’s intent to remain competitive as a destination for digital talent.

For organisations looking to navigate the complexities of European immigration and ensure compliance without compromising on agility, Malta presents a strong case.

“It’s about providing real solutions to real problems,” they say. “Mobility, when done right, unlocks opportunities. Malta is making it easier for esports to thrive – not just as a game, but as a global business.”