Malta Immigration Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get residency by investment in Malta? 

In January 2021, the Malta Residency and Visa Agency announced the launch of a new residency program called the Malta Permanent Residency Programme (MPRP). This program will replace the existing Malta Residency and Visa Programme (MRVP) that will be closed at the end of March 2021. Like its predecessor, the MPRP too offers foreign nationals an opportunity to get second residency in Malta. All applications for it must be submitted by an accredited agent with Maltese authorities.

How much do I have to invest to get residency in Malta? 

The investment requirements include a real-estate investment with a minimum value of 300,000 euros if buying, or 10,000 euros if renting in Malta. Such investments should be held for a minimum of five years.

Depending on the real-estate option is chosen, investors need to also make the following contributions to the Maltese government: 58,000 euros if renting property, or 28,000 euros if property is purchased. In both cases, investors need to pay 40,000 euros in administration fees to the government. Moreover, investors need to make a 2,000-euro donation to a charity and be in possession of assets valued at 500,000 euros, of which 150,000 euros must be in the form of financial assets for a period of five years.

How much do I have to invest to get citizenship in Malta? 

At the end of 2020, Malta introduced a new citizenship legislation for the Granting of Citizenship by Naturalisation for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment (CDI), which an applicant can get following a residency period of 36 months, or by exception 12 months. The direct investment required for an application includes a financial contribution of 600,000 euros following three years of residency, or by exception, 750,000 euros following a 12-month residency period. In addition, investors need to either purchase a property for 700,000 euros or rent a property for 16,000 euros per year for a period of five years. A donation to a Maltese charity must also be paid with a minimum value of 10,000 euros.

What are the requirements for citizenship by investment in Malta? 

The requirements for citizenship by investment in Malta include a nonrefundable donation, a real estate purchase or lease, and payment of administration fees. Under newly revised rules, the applicant also has to remain a resident for three years before applying for citizenship. A higher investment shortens the wait time to one year. There is a strict due diligence process for investors and their families. Among other things, they have to prove they are in good health and have no criminal record.

What are the requirements for residency by investment in Malta? 

The requirements for residency by investment in Malta depend on the path the investor chooses. The Malta Residency and Visa Programme requirements include a donation, a real-estate purchase or lease, a proof of income and net assets, and the passing of a strict due diligence check.

How long does it take to get residency by investment in Malta? 

It takes less than a year to become a resident of Malta through investment. A relocation could be available in as quickly as four months.

How long does it take to get citizenship by investment in Malta? 

Under newly revised rules, it will take three years for residents to be able to apply for citizenship in Malta, a year if they made a higher investment.

How many countries can I visit with a Maltese passport? 

You can travel to 173 destinations visa-free.

Do I have to be present in Malta before getting the residency-by-investment application approved? 

No, but you have to make the required investments and purchase or lease property.

Can I add my spouse and children on my application? 

Yes. Spouses and children can be added to the application at additional cost.

What are the criteria for my children to qualify for residency or citizenship in Malta (including their age)? 

Children under 18 years old can be included in the citizenship process. Children between 18 and 26 years old can be included if they are not married and are economically dependent on the investor. There is no age limit for the residency program.

Do I have the right to work in Malta after I obtain the residency through this program? 

As a resident and not a citizen, you must get a work permit to be able to work in Malta.

Do I have to live in Malta to qualify for citizenship by investment? 

It’s necessary to be a resident for at least 12 months before becoming a citizen, but that doesn’t require actually living in Malta. What is required is a connection to the country through work or philanthropy and a few visits in person.

What is the tax situation after obtaining Malta residency or citizenship?

The tax situation in Malta depends on the person’s residency and domicile. Someone who is a resident or a citizen and lives in Malta pays taxes on worldwide basis. Someone who is a resident but not domiciled in Malta pays taxes on local income and gains as well as income obtained from sources abroad if it’s received in Malta. The same person doesn’t pay taxes on capital gains obtained from sources abroad.

Will Maltese citizenship automatically grant me European citizenship? 

Yes. The Maltese passport allows the unrestricted ability to live, work and study in any EU country.

What can I invest in to gain citizenship by investment in Malta? 

Getting a citizenship by investment in Malta requires an investment in real estate as well as a donation to a charity.

How long do I have to wait before I can sell my investment in Malta? 

According to the rules of the residency and citizenship by investment programs, investors must keep their property and government stocks and bonds investments for a minimum of five years.

Will my Maltese citizenship expire? 

No, the Maltese citizenship doesn’t expire and can be passed to future generations. However, the Maltese passport is valid for 10 years and has to be renewed.

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