Requirements for Residency in Malta: What You Need for Maltese Residency?

Published: 23 May 2024
Table of Contents
  1. Key Takeaways
  2. Country Overview: Malta
  3. The Malta Permanent Residence Programme: Overview
  4. Benefits of Maltese Residence by Investment
  5. Eligibility Criteria for the Malta Permanent Residence Programme
  6. Contact our advisor today and get a free consultation: Imperial Citizenship
  7. Summary

Malta has emerged as an attractive investment destination in Europe, driven by its stability, strategic location, and high quality of life. The Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) presents a unique opportunity for non-EU nationals to secure permanent residency rights through a structured investment process. This residency-by-investment program offers numerous benefits while requiring applicants to meet specific eligibility criteria and investment requirements.

Key Takeaways

  • The Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) offers non-EU nationals a path to permanent residency through investment in property and government contributions.
  • Benefits include the right to reside permanently in Malta, visa-free travel within the Schengen area, and the ability to include up to four generations of family members in one application.
  • Applicants must make a qualifying property purchase or rental investment, pay government fees and contributions, make a charitable donation, and undergo thorough due diligence checks.
  • The processing time is currently longer than the original 4-6 month target due to high demand, but measures are being taken to reduce wait times without compromising diligence standards.

Country Overview: Malta

Malta, officially known as the Republic of Malta, is a captivating island nation located in the central Mediterranean Sea, approximately 50 miles south of Sicily. This small but strategically significant archipelago consists of three inhabited islands—Malta, Gozo, and Comino—and several uninhabited islets. With a total area of 316 square kilometers, Malta is the tenth smallest country by area and one of the most densely populated sovereign states in the world.

  • Geography and Climate: Malta’s landscape is characterized by low hills with terraced fields and a coastline indented with bays, inlets, and coves. The highest point is Ta’ Dmejrek, at 253 meters, near Dingli. The country enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers, making it an ideal year-round destination for tourists.
  • Historical Significance: Malta’s rich history dates back to around 5900 BC, with evidence of early Neolithic settlers. Over the centuries, the islands have been ruled by a succession of powers, including the Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans, Sicilians, Spanish, Knights of St. John, French, and British. This diverse history has left a profound impact on Malta’s cultural and architectural heritage.
  • Modern Malta: Today, Malta is a vibrant republic with a mixed economic system that combines private enterprise with centralized economic planning and government regulation. The capital city, Valletta, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its historical and cultural significance. Valletta, along with other cities like Mdina and Sliema, offers a blend of ancient history and modern amenities, making it a popular destination for tourists.
  • Tourism and Attractions: Tourism is a major industry in Malta, driven by its warm weather, beautiful waters, and dynamic culture. The island nation boasts numerous attractions, including:
    • Valletta: Known for its grand fortifications, St. John’s Co-Cathedral, and the Grandmaster’s Palace.
    • Mdina: The “Silent City,” famous for its medieval architecture and narrow, winding streets.
    • Gozo: Offers a more tranquil experience with its quiet towns, pristine beaches, and the Ġgantija Temples, one of the oldest free-standing structures in the world.
    • Comino: Home to the Blue Lagoon, a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
    • Sliema: A bustling town known for its shopping, dining, and nightlife.

The Malta Permanent Residence Programme: Overview

Malta has emerged as one of Europe’s premier investment destinations, renowned for its stability, predictability, and security. The Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) offers foreign nationals the opportunity to secure residence rights in Europe through investment.

Situated in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, Malta boasts an excellent reputation for its splendid climate, friendly populace, low crime rate, and high quality of life. The island nation is an attractive place to live or own a second home, with excellent air links facilitating easy travel.

Benefits of Maltese Residence by Investment

Malta, a picturesque island nation in the heart of the Mediterranean, has become a highly sought-after destination for investors seeking residency in Europe. The Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) offers a unique opportunity for non-EU nationals to obtain permanent residency through investment. This program provides a multitude of benefits, making it an attractive option for individuals and families looking to establish a foothold in Europe. Below, we explore the key advantages of obtaining Maltese residence by investment.

  • Residence in an EU Country: One of the most significant benefits of the MPRP is the ability to reside in an EU country. Malta, as a member of the European Union, offers its residents the advantages associated with EU membership. This includes access to a stable political environment, a robust economy, and a high standard of living. Residents can enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle, characterized by a mild climate, beautiful landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage.
  • Visa-Free Access to the Schengen Area: Holders of a Maltese residence permit benefit from visa-free travel across Europe’s Schengen Area. This allows residents to travel freely to 26 European countries for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without the need for a visa. This ease of travel is particularly advantageous for business professionals, frequent travelers, and those who wish to explore Europe without the hassle of obtaining multiple visas.
  • Right to Reside Indefinitely in Malta: The MPRP grants the right to reside indefinitely in Malta. This means that successful applicants and their families can live, work, and study in Malta without any time restrictions. The permanent residency status is valid for life, providing long-term security and stability. Additionally, residents can enjoy the benefits of Malta’s high-quality healthcare and education systems.
  • Investment Required Only for the First Five Years: To qualify for the MPRP, applicants must make a qualifying investment in Malta. However, the investment is required only for the first five years. This includes purchasing or renting property, making a government contribution, and donating to a local non-governmental organization. After the initial five-year period, there are no further investment obligations, making it a cost-effective option for long-term residency.
  • No Residence Requirement: Unlike many other residency programs, the MPRP does not impose any mandatory physical presence requirements. This means that residents are not required to live in Malta for a specific number of days each year. This flexibility is ideal for individuals who travel frequently or have business interests in multiple countries. Residents can maintain their status without the need to relocate permanently to Malta.
  • Inclusion of Family Members: The MPRP allows for the inclusion of family members in the application. This includes the main applicant’s spouse or partner, children (regardless of age), and dependent parents and grandparents. This multi-generational inclusion ensures that the entire family can benefit from the residency status, providing a secure and stable environment for all members.
  • High Standard of Living: Malta is renowned for its high standard of living. The country offers excellent healthcare services, ranked among the best in the world, and a robust education system with numerous international schools and universities. The cost of living in Malta is relatively low compared to other European countries, making it an attractive destination for families and retirees.
  • Attractive Tax Regime: Malta’s tax regime is another significant benefit for residents. The country offers a favorable tax environment with no inheritance tax, no wealth tax, and no property tax. Residents are taxed on a remittance basis, meaning they are only taxed on income and capital gains arising in Malta and on income remitted to Malta. This provides substantial tax planning opportunities for high-net-worth individuals and business owners.
  • Safe and Secure Environment: Malta is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in Europe. The low crime rate, political stability, and respect for diverse cultures and religions make it an ideal place to live and raise a family. The country’s strategic location in the Mediterranean also provides easy access to major European cities, enhancing its appeal as a secure and convenient base.
  • Pathway to Citizenship: While the MPRP itself does not grant citizenship, it provides a pathway to Maltese citizenship. After residing in Malta for a minimum of five years, residents may be eligible to apply for citizenship through naturalization. Maltese citizenship offers additional benefits, including the right to live, work, and study in any EU country and visa-free travel to over 180 countries worldwide.

The Malta Permanent Residence Programme offers a comprehensive and flexible solution for non-EU nationals seeking to establish residency in Europe. With its numerous benefits, including visa-free travel within the Schengen Area, the right to reside indefinitely in Malta, and the inclusion of family members, the MPRP stands out as an attractive option for investors. Coupled with Malta’s high standard of living, favorable tax regime, and safe environment, the program provides a unique opportunity to enjoy the best of what Europe has to offer.

Eligibility Criteria for the Malta Permanent Residence Programme

To be eligible for the MPRP, applicants must satisfy a set of conditions that affirm their financial stability and integrity:

  • Nationality: The program is exclusively open to third-country nationals outside the EU, EEA, and Switzerland. It’s important to note that nationals from countries under international sanctions may find themselves ineligible, as stipulated by the Residency Malta Agency.
  • Age Requirement: The primary applicant must be 18 years or older at the time of application submission.
  • Financial Stability: Applicants are required to demonstrate possession of capital assets amounting to at least €500,000, with a minimum of €150,000 in liquid financial assets such as stocks, bonds, or bank deposits.
  • Clean Criminal Record: A clean criminal record is mandatory for all applicants and their dependents, ensuring that individuals pose no threat to Malta’s national security, public policy, health, or interest.
  • Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance coverage that is valid across Malta and the entire European Union is required for the applicant and all dependents.

Investment Requirements of the MPRP

To qualify for permanent residency under the MPRP, applicants must choose between two primary investment options, each with its own set of specific requirements:

  • Option 1: Property Purchase
    • Purchase a residential property in Malta for a minimum of €350,000 in central or northern regions, or €300,000 in southern Malta or Gozo.
    • Maintain ownership of the property for at least five years, ensuring a stable investment in Malta’s real estate market.
  • Option 2: Property Rental
    • Engage in a rental agreement for a residential property, with a minimum annual rent of €12,000 in central or northern Malta, or €10,000 in southern Malta or Gozo.
    • The rental contract must be upheld for a minimum of five years, demonstrating long-term commitment to residing in Malta.

Additional Financial Commitments

Besides the property investment, the MPRP requires applicants to fulfill several financial commitments:

  • Government Contribution: A contribution of €28,000 is required if purchasing property, or a higher fee of €58,000 if opting for rental.
  • Dependents’ Contribution: An additional €7,500 must be paid for each dependent parent or grandparent included in the application.
  • Charitable Donation: Applicants must donate €2,000 to a registered non-governmental organization in Malta, fostering a sense of community support and participation.
  • Administrative Fee: A non-refundable administrative fee of €40,000 is required, with €10,000 due at application submission and the remaining €30,000 payable within two months after receiving the Letter of Approval in Principle.

The Malta Permanent Residence Programme offers a structured pathway to residency enriched with multiple benefits, including the potential for an enhanced lifestyle in a vibrant, culturally-rich Mediterranean setting. With its comprehensive eligibility requirements and varied investment options, the MPRP stands as a testament to Malta’s welcoming stance towards international investors and their families, offering them a chance to enjoy the tranquility and beauty of island life while contributing to its economic vitality.

Contact our advisor today and get a free consultation: Imperial Citizenship

For those interested in exploring the opportunities provided by the Malta Permanent Residence Programme, expert guidance is crucial to navigate the complexities of the application process. At Imperial Citizenship, we specialize in providing tailored advice to help you make informed decisions about your investment and residency options in Malta.

Contact our advisor today to receive a free consultation and learn more about how we can assist you in securing your future in Malta through the MPRP. Join the many who have successfully embarked on this journey with the support of Imperial Citizenship.

Summary

The Malta Permanent Residence Programme is a clearly defined residency-by-investment initiative that grants non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals the right to permanently reside in Malta through investments in property and government contributions. Successful applicants enjoy visa-free travel within the Schengen area, access to Malta’s real estate market, and the ability to include up to four generations of family members in their application.

Share this blog

Related Articles

Scroll to Top