As an expatriate in Malta, one of the first and most important steps to navigating the country’s digital government services is obtaining your e-ID Virtual Account. This card not only serves as an official identification document, but it also grants access to a range of online government services, from tax filings to healthcare and social security applications.
In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the process of activating your e-ID account, ensuring you can seamlessly interact with Malta’s e-government platforms.
What is an e-ID Virtual Account?
The e-ID Virtual Account is an electronic identification tool that allows residents of Malta to securely authenticate their identity online. It also enables the digital signing of documents, making it an indispensable asset for anyone navigating Malta’s e-government services. With this card, users can access a variety of online services, including:
- Securely authenticate identity.
- Sign documents electronically.
- Access a wide range of government platforms and services.
Eligibility
To apply for your Electronic ID Card, you need a valid identification document. As an expatriate, this can be:
- A residence card (for non-citizens), or
- A Maltese e-ID card (for citizens).
Application Process
The application for your e-ID virtual account involves the following steps:
Receive Your e-ID Virtual Account: Once your application is approved, you will receive a confirmation of your e-ID virtual account. The physical card (if applicable) will be issued separately, while your virtual account will be linked to your personal data for online use.
Visit the Identity Cards Unit: You must apply in person at the Identity Cards Unit. Make sure to mention that you would like to activate your e-ID virtual account during your visit.
Identity Verification: The Identity Cards Unit will verify your personal details and documents. This may include a photograph and biometric data collection, depending on the current process.
Receiving the Activation Link
Once your application has been processed, an activation link will be sent to the email address you provided during the application. This link will arrive within six working days. If you do not receive it in the specified time frame, you can visit the Identità e-ID office in person to verify your personal details and request a new link.
Using Your e-ID Virtual Account
Basic Access
Once your e-ID account is activated, you can log in with your username and password to access various online services. Basic access allows you to perform tasks that do not require high-security authentication. This includes general tasks such as checking your personal data or viewing public records.
Card Reader Functions
For more sensitive tasks, such as submitting documents, signing contracts, or accessing secure government services, you will need a Card Reader and your PINs (PIN A and PIN B). These tools allow you to carry out actions such as:
- Signing documents electronically.
- Handling financial transactions securely.
- Submitting tenders and other official requests.
The combination of the Card Reader and PINs ensures that only you can perform high-security actions.
Security Measures and Protection
Malta’s e-ID virtual account system is built with strong security features to protect your personal information. These include:
Two-Factor Authentication: Many government services require additional authentication steps, such as entering a one-time passcode (OTP) sent to your mobile phone.
PIN A and PIN B: These PINs are required for accessing your account and performing sensitive actions such as document signing or secure payments.
Encryption: The Card Reader uses encryption to secure your data during transactions, ensuring that sensitive information is never exposed.
Accessing Government Services
Accessing Government Services: After activation, you can use your e-ID virtual account for a wide variety of government services, including:
- Tax fillings
- Expatriates Unit Portal
- Social Security
- Healthcare records
- Online voting (for eligible citizens)
Additional Information
Accessing Government Services: Once your e-ID virtual account is activated, you will be able to access important government services like tax filings, health records, and social security applications.
Forgotten PIN: If you forget your PIN, you will need to visit the Identity Cards Unit in person with your Idenity Card to reset your PIN.
Activation Issues: If you have any issues with activation or haven’t received your link, visit the Identità e-ID office to resolve the issue.
Conclusion
Activating your e-ID virtual account is one of the most important steps for expats living in Malta to fully engage with the country’s digital government services. The process is straightforward, but if you need guidance, our team at Expatax is here to help. We specialize in assisting expatriates with all aspects of their move to Malta, from tax advice to navigating the country’s bureaucratic processes.
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