Residency by
Investment in Malta

Malta, a member of the European Union and part of the Schengen Area, offers a reputable Residency by Investment program through the Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP). This initiative provides non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss nationals the opportunity to secure long-term residency rights by meeting specific investment criteria. Known for its Mediterranean climate, strategic location, stable economy, and rich cultural tapestry, Malta presents an ideal environment for investors and their families to live, work, study, or simply enjoy a secure European lifestyle.

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Why Choose Malta?

  • Strategic EU Location:
    Malta’s position in the central Mediterranean bridges Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East, facilitating international travel, trade, and business connectivity.
  • Stable Economy and EU Framework:
    As an EU member, Malta benefits from robust financial regulations, investor-friendly policies, and stable governance. Residents enjoy a secure legal environment and the protections afforded by EU standards.
  • High Quality of Life:
    Offering modern infrastructure, top-tier healthcare, reputable educational institutions, and a safe multicultural community, Malta ensures a comfortable and fulfilling lifestyle for residents of all ages.

Benefits of Malta Residency

  • EU Schengen Mobility
    While the MPRP does not grant free movement rights across the EU as citizenship would, it does allow you to reside indefinitely in Malta and travel easily within the Schengen area for short stays. This enhanced mobility offers convenient access to Europe’s diverse business, leisure, and cultural hubs.
  • Long-Term Security and Status
    MPRP holders receive permanent residency rights with no mandatory renewal on the residency status itself, as long as the investment conditions are maintained for the required holding period. This stability can serve as a first step toward deeper ties within the EU and potential future long-term residence status under Maltese and EU laws.
  • Business and Investment Environment
    Malta’s thriving economy, underpinned by sectors such as finance, iGaming, maritime services, and technology, creates numerous entrepreneurial and employment opportunities. Access to robust banking systems, tax incentives, and investment avenues further enhances its appeal for international investors.
  • Family Inclusion and Lifestyle Amenities
    The MPRP extends benefits to the entire family, including spouses, children, and dependent parents or grandparents. This inclusive approach ensures that families can reside together, access world-class healthcare and education, and benefit from Malta’s stable, family-friendly environment.
  • No Lengthy Residency or Language Requirements
    Applicants are not required to learn Maltese or reside in the country for extended periods to maintain their status. This flexibility allows investors to enjoy the advantages of Maltese residency without major lifestyle disruptions.
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Investment Options and Requirements

    The Malta Permanent Residence Programme involves a combination of a government contribution, a real estate investment (purchase or rental), and a donation to a Maltese-registered charitable organisation.

  • Financial Commitments
    Real Estate Investment:
    Purchase Option: Buy a residential property worth at least €350,000 in central/northern Malta or at least €300,000 in the south of Malta or Gozo.
    Rental Option: Rent a residential property for a minimum of €12,000 per year in central/northern Malta or €10,000 per year in the south of Malta or Gozo.
    The property (owned or rented) must be maintained for a minimum of 5 years.
  • Government Contribution:
    If Purchasing Property: A contribution of €28,000 to the Maltese government.
    If Renting Property: A contribution of €58,000 to the Maltese government.
    This non-refundable contribution supports Malta’s national development initiatives.
  • Charitable Donation:
    A mandatory donation of €2,000 to a registered Maltese NGO involved in philanthropic, cultural, artistic, sports, scientific, or educational activities.
  • Additional Criteria
    Financial Stability and Clean Record:
    Applicants must prove stable financial resources, a clean criminal record, and pass the strict due diligence checks conducted by Maltese authorities.
  • Administrative Fees:
    An administrative fee of €40,000 applies, with €10,000 payable upon application submission and the remainder due after approval in principle.

Eligibility Criteria

General Requirements

  • Age and Health:
    The principal applicant must be at least 18 years old. While no strict health requirements exist, standard health insurance covering Malta and the EU is recommended.
  • Background Check:
    A clean criminal record is mandatory. Applicants and adult dependents undergo comprehensive due diligence to uphold the integrity and security of the MPRP.
  • Dependents
    Family Inclusion:
    The program allows inclusion of spouses, dependent children of any age (if financially reliant on the main applicant), and dependent parents or grandparents. This ensures multi-generational family units can benefit from the program.
  • Age Limits for Dependents:
    Children over 18 must be unmarried, financially dependent on the main applicant, and not economically active. Parents and grandparents must be financially dependent as well.
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Application Process

Step-by-Step Guide

  • Initial Consultation
    Personal Assessment: Discuss your objectives with Citizenship360. We review eligibility, advise on the best property route (purchase or rental), and outline required documents.
  • Documentation Preparation
    Gather Required Paperwork: Collect financial statements, police clearances, property agreements (or lease contracts), health insurance policies, and identity documents. Certified translations may be necessary.
  • Application Submission
    Citizenship360 Submits Your Application:
    We file the complete MPRP application with the Residency Malta Agency, ensuring compliance, accuracy, and adherence to all guidelines.
    Due Diligence and Approval in Principle
  • Background Checks:
    Authorities conduct thorough due diligence. Once approved in principle, pay the remaining administrative fees and finalize your investment (if not already done).
    Final Steps and Residency Permit Issuance
  • Make Contributions and Donation:
    Complete the required government contribution and €2,000 charitable donation. Confirm the property purchase or lease arrangements. Upon final verification, you receive your MPRP certificate and residency cards.
  • Timeline
    Processing Time:
    On average, the Malta Permanent Residence Programme takes approximately 4-6 months from submission to receiving approval, subject to the complexity of the application and due diligence outcomes.

Cost & Fees

  • Investment Costs
    Property Purchase: Minimum €300,000-€350,000 (depending on location)
    Property Rental: Minimum €10,000-€12,000 per year (depending on location)
    Government Contribution: €28,000 (purchase route) or €58,000 (rental route)
    Charitable Donation: €2,000
    Administrative Fee: €40,000 (partial payment at application and remainder after approval in principle)
  • Additional Expenses
    Legal and professional services (advisory, document preparation)
    Health insurance premiums
    Property-related expenses (stamp duty, legal fees)
  • Identity card issuance fees
    Citizenship360 provides a transparent, detailed cost breakdown during the initial consultation to avoid surprises.
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FAQ's

Can I choose between buying and renting property?

Yes, the MPRP allows either property purchase or rental. Requirements and government contributions differ based on the chosen option.

Can I add family members after obtaining residency?

Yes, subject to the program’s rules, additional dependents may join at a later stage, provided they meet eligibility criteria and pay corresponding fees.

Does the MPRP lead directly to Maltese citizenship?

No. MPRP grants long-term residency. However, after a set number of years living in Malta, you may explore standard naturalization options. These are distinct and have separate criteria.

Will I be taxed on my global income?

Malta typically applies the remittance basis of taxation for resident non-domiciled individuals. Consult a tax professional for personalized advice.

Must I live in Malta to maintain the permit?

There is no strict physical presence requirement. However, maintaining a qualifying property and adhering to the program’s conditions is essential.

Is the residency permit indefinite?

The MPRP grants permanent residency status. The residency card must be renewed periodically (e.g., every 5 years), but the status remains as long as conditions are met.