The Definitive 2024 Guide to Malta's Residency by Investment Program
Table of Contents
Discover Malta’s Charm with Residency by Investment
Nestled in the heart of the Mediterranean, Malta is a captivating blend of cultures, charming villages, outdoor adventures, and breathtaking beaches hidden within secluded coves. With around 3,000 hours of sunshine each year, it’s no surprise that Malta is known for its endless sunny days.
In recent years, Malta has become a favored destination for families, investors, and entrepreneurs seeking to improve their quality of life and secure their future. Through the Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP), non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss nationals can obtain Maltese residency by investment. Successful applicants receive a residence permit that allows them and their families to enjoy permanent living on this beautiful Mediterranean island.
What You'll Find in This Guide:
- An overview of the Malta Permanent Residence Programme
- Key benefits of the program
- Steps to obtain Maltese residency
- Program cost breakdown
- And much more!
Understanding the Malta Permanent Residence Programme
The MPRP, commonly referred to as the Malta Golden Visa, is a residency by investment program designed to provide successful applicants with a Certificate of Maltese Residence. This certificate grants the right to reside in Malta indefinitely, along with family members.
Applicants must be non-EU, non-EEA, or non-Swiss nationals, over 18 years of age, and meet specific investment criteria. Investments may include leasing or purchasing real estate in Malta, along with government contributions and additional fees. Background checks and supporting documentation verification typically extend the processing time to around four to six months.
Program Eligibility Requirements
- The primary applicant must be at least 18 years old.
- A qualifying investment must be made, which includes property investments and government contributions.
- Sufficient financial resources must be demonstrated to support the applicant and any dependents without relying on social assistance in Malta.
- Valid health insurance that covers all EU countries must be maintained for all applicants.
- A clean criminal record is mandatory for both the main applicant and any dependents.
- There is no mandatory minimum stay requirement, but the investment must be maintained for at least five years.
Benefits of Malta Residency
Residency in Malta offers several perks, including visa-free travel within the Schengen Zone and access to Malta’s excellent healthcare system. After five years of residency, applicants may apply for Maltese citizenship, provided they meet the requirements, which include continuous residence in Malta during the year prior to applying.
Can Family Members Be Included?
Yes, your spouse, children under 18, and dependent children up to 25 can join your application. However, effective from 3 May 2023, parents and in-laws are no longer eligible under this program.
Tax Considerations and Program Costs
The MPRP may offer special tax concessions depending on the investment type. It is recommended to consult with a legal advisor to understand the full tax implications. The minimum investment requirement is €300,000, with additional administrative and property-related fees potentially applicable.
Benefits of the Malta Permanent Residence Programme
The Malta Permanent Residence Programme offers a pathway to European residency for non-EU nationals, granting a host of benefits in this attractive Mediterranean country. With a robust economy, rich culture, and favorable investment opportunities, Malta is an ideal destination for securing alternative residency.
Visa-Free Schengen Travel
Enjoy hassle-free access to the Schengen Zone for up to 90 days within any 180-day period, enabling easy travel throughout Europe.
High Quality of Life
Experience the Mediterranean lifestyle with a safe environment, friendly communities, and over 3,000 hours of sunshine per year.
Quality Healthcare
Benefit from one of Europe's best healthcare systems, offering comprehensive medical services to residents.
English-Speaking Environment
Malta's official language is English, making it easy for international families to integrate and access quality education.
Investment Opportunities
Take advantage of Malta's thriving real estate market and attractive investment environment.
Rich Cultural Heritage
Discover Malta's extensive history, cultural festivals, and diverse arts scene.
Strategic Location
Malta serves as a bridge between Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East, making it a key business hub.
Family Benefits under the Malta Permanent Residence Programme
Inclusion of Family Members
The Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) stands out as a highly appealing option due to its provision for including family members in a single application, subject to an additional fee. This makes it an ideal choice for families seeking to relocate and enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle together.
Eligible family members who can be included in the residency application are:
- The spouse of the main applicant, whether in a legally recognized marriage, civil union, domestic partnership, or a similar relationship.
- Children under the age of 18, including adopted children.
- Unmarried adult children (over 18) who are financially dependent on the main applicant or their spouse.
- Adult children (over 18) with a recognized disability.
- Parents or grandparents of the main applicant or their spouse, provided they are financially dependent on the main applicant.
Malta's high-quality healthcare system and excellent education options add to the program's appeal, ensuring that all family members are well-supported. Additionally, Malta's reputation as a top European study destination is further highlighted by our comprehensive guide to the Malta Study Visa for dependents who may not meet the above criteria.
Second Citizenship Benefits
Through Malta's investment programs, it is possible to obtain dual citizenship, provided that all necessary requirements, including due diligence checks and a commitment to the nation's development, are fulfilled.
Key advantages of acquiring Maltese citizenship include:
- Obtaining a Maltese passport, often referred to as the "Malta Golden Passport."
- Visa-free travel across the Schengen Zone and beyond, offering extensive mobility throughout Europe and other destinations.
- Access to Malta's thriving economy, known for its business-friendly environment and high growth potential.
- The ability to reside indefinitely in any European Union country, with full rights to work, study, and live in the EU.
The Community Malta Agency is responsible for overseeing citizenship applications to ensure compliance with the latest regulations. Under the Maltese Citizenship Act, specific conditions must be met for investors to be granted citizenship, ensuring the integrity of the program.
Malta Residency by Investment Options
To obtain a Malta permanent residence permit, applicants can choose between two main real estate investment options:
- Buying real estate: Invest in a qualifying property purchase.
- Leasing a property: Secure a rental agreement for a qualifying lease.
This pathway is ideal for those with sufficient financial resources seeking to enhance their lifestyle and mobility. It involves investing in Malta's real estate market, alongside contributions to the national development fund and other government requirements. Applicants must ensure the accuracy of all submitted information and fulfill the program's commitments to support Malta's economy and social development.
Property Investment Requirements
Applicants must choose between renting or purchasing a qualifying property:
- Renting: Lease a property with a minimum annual rent of €12,000. In some designated areas, the minimum is €10,000.
- Purchasing: Buy a property valued at a minimum of €300,000 in the South of Malta or Gozo, or €350,000 in other regions.
Note: The property must be retained for at least five years, during which it cannot be rented out or sublet.
Non-Refundable Government Contribution
In addition to property investment, applicants must make a non-refundable contribution to the Maltese government:
- For renting: A contribution of €58,000 is required.
- For purchasing: A contribution of €28,000 is required.
Additional Fee: An extra €7,500 is applicable for each adult dependent included in the application.
Philanthropic Donation
Applicants must donate €2,000 to a registered charitable organization in Malta. Eligible organizations may include cultural, sports, scientific, or animal welfare NGOs recognized by the Commissioner for Voluntary Organizations.
Note: Donations must be made after the Letter of Approval is issued, and proof of donation must be submitted with the final documentation.
Administrative Fees
An administrative fee of €40,000 is payable to the government. This fee is non-refundable and is structured as follows:
- €10,000 is due within one month of application submission.
- The remaining €30,000 is due within two months of the issuance of the Letter of Approval in Principle.
Additional Dependents Fees – Post-Approval Stage
| Dependent | Fee |
|---|---|
| Parent or grandparent of the main applicant or spouse entirely dependent on the main applicant | €7,500 |
| Spouse of an already approved main applicant | €7,500 |
| Minor child of the main applicant or their approved spouse | Free |
| Child of the main applicant and/or spouse, born or adopted after the certificate is issued | Free |
| Adult child of the main applicant or spouse, over 18, unmarried, and dependent on the main applicant | €5,000 |
| Adult child of the main applicant or spouse, over 18 with a disability certified by a recognized authority | Free |
| Spouse of an already approved dependent child | €7,500 |
| Minor child of an approved dependent child and/or their spouse | €5,000 |
MPRP Document Requirements
Below is a list of general documentation required to support your residency application under the Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP). Please note that this is not an exhaustive list, and requirements can change at the discretion of Maltese authorities. Make sure to have all the necessary documents prepared:
- Valid Passport: A valid passport for all applicants, including birth certificates when applicable.
- Clean Criminal Record: Required for all applicants over 14 years old. It must be issued by the competent authorities from the country of origin or where the applicant has resided for over 6 months in the last 10 years.
- Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance covering all applicants, ensuring they are in good health and will not burden Malta's national health system.
- Property Investment Undertaking: An agreement to purchase or lease property in Malta as per legal requirements. The lease or purchase must be maintained for at least five years.
- Personal Due Diligence Information: Complete details for the due diligence process, ensuring all applicants are "fit and proper" persons.
- Power of Attorney: A document authorizing a licensed agent to act on behalf of the applicant.
- Medical Report and Questionnaire: Confirming that all applicants are free from any contagious diseases or severe health conditions.
- Source of Funds and Financial Assets: Proof of the origin of funds for the main applicant, including bank statements and evidence of business ownership or employment.
- Contribution and Donation Undertaking: An agreement to make the necessary non-refundable government contributions and charitable donations.
Note: A thorough four-tier due diligence procedure is part of the application process. All documents should be submitted through a licensed authorized agent and must be in English or accompanied by a certified English translation.
Step-by-Step Guide to Malta Residency
Step-by-Step Guide to Malta Residency
Note: This requirement ensures compliance with residency conditions and is subject to changes at the discretion of the RMA.
Maltese Residency Timeline
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Month 1-4
Onboarding and documentation submission.
-
Month 5-9
Application processing time.
-
Month 9
Letter of Approval in Principle is issued.
-
Month 10
Applicant makes respective investments and pays all fees.
-
Month 11-12
Residency Malta Agency issues the Permanent Residence Certificate, and residence cards are issued in two to four weeks.
Property Rental Path
- €12,000 yearly (Malta mainland)
- €10,000 yearly (Gozo/South Malta)
- Minimum 5-year commitment
- €58,000 government contribution
- €2,000 charitable donation
Property Purchase Path
- €350,000 (Malta mainland)
- €300,000 (Gozo/South Malta)
- €58,000 government contribution
- €2,000 charitable donation
- Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals
- Minimum age of 18 years
- Clean criminal record
- Proof of assets worth €500,000 (minimum €150,000 in financial assets)
- Comprehensive health insurance coverage
- Good standing and reputation
- Initial application submission
- Four-tier due diligence process
- Letter of Approval in Principle
- 8-month window to fulfill obligations
- Residence permit issuance
- Spouse or life partner
- Children under 18
- Dependent adult children (unmarried)
- Dependent parents or grandparents
Property Rental Path
- €12,000 yearly (Malta mainland)
- €10,000 yearly (Gozo/South Malta)
- Minimum 5-year commitment
- €58,000 government contribution
- €2,000 charitable donation
Property Purchase Path
- €350,000 (Malta mainland)
- €300,000 (Gozo/South Malta)
- €58,000 government contribution
- €2,000 charitable donation
- Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals
- Minimum age of 18 years
- Clean criminal record
- Proof of assets worth €500,000 (minimum €150,000 in financial assets)
- Comprehensive health insurance coverage
- Good standing and reputation
- Initial application submission
- Four-tier due diligence process
- Letter of Approval in Principle
- 8-month window to fulfill obligations
- Residence permit issuance
- Spouse or life partner
- Children under 18
- Dependent adult children (unmarried)
- Dependent parents or grandparents