Malta Residence Permit
Malta has become one of Europe’s top relocation destinations for individuals and families seeking to live, work, or retire in a safe, tax-efficient, and lifestyle-rich environment. With its mild Mediterranean climate, English-speaking population, EU membership, favourable personal tax system for resident individuals who are not domiciled in Malta, and excellent healthcare and education systems, it's no surprise that more people are applying for Malta residence every year.
The most straightforward way to obtain a Malta residence permit is by applying through one of the established residence programmes. These range from standard permits based on employment or retirement, to economic self-sufficiency and residence by investment programmes designed for non-EU nationals.
Long Term Residence Permit in Malta
Long-term residence permits in Malta are sought after by individuals who wish to reside in Malta for extended periods or indefinitely. These permits are typically granted to third-country nationals who meet specific financial stability criteria, the most prominent being the Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP). This programme allows non-EU nationals to obtain a permanent residence permit from the outset, without the need for five years of prior residence.
It is important to distinguish between the Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) and the Long-Term Resident Status regulated under the Status of Long-Term Residents (Third Country Nationals) Regulations (S.L. 217.05). While the MPRP grants indefinite residence rights in Malta under specific investment and eligibility criteria, it does not confer EU Long-Term Resident status. The latter is a separate route available to third-country nationals who have legally and continuously resided in Malta for at least five years, and who meet specific conditions including stable and regular resources, health insurance, and integration measures such as language or civic knowledge.
How to get Malta Residence Permit
Whether you're an EU citizen relocating for work, a digital nomad looking to enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle while working remotely, or a non-EU investor seeking to establish residence through property investment or government contributions, Malta provides tailored solutions to meet diverse needs.
Ordinary Residence in Malta – For EU/EEA/Swiss Nationals
EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals can apply for Ordinary Residence in Malta when relocating for employment, retirement, or personal reasons. This route is ideal for those intending to be based in Malta for an extended period while enjoying the benefits of Malta residence within the European Union.
Malta’s Ordinary Residence programme is governed by the Free Movement of EU Nationals and their Family Members Order, which transposes the EU Free Movement Directive (2004/38/EC). It guarantees the right to live, work, and reside in Malta under EU law.
The Residence Programme (TRP)
The Residence Programme is designed for EU individuals who in addition to obtaining residency permit from Malta, also wish to obtain Special tax status in Malta. TRP beneficiaries can avail of a flat rate of 15% on foreign remitted to Malta (in opposite to the standard resident tax rates 0-35%).
Why Choose the TRP?
- Tax residency in Malta on a remittance basis
- Ability to include dependants
- Ideal for high-net-worth individuals
- Special Tax Status gives preferential tax rates in comparison to the standard resident tax rates.
Malta Retirement Programme (MRP)
The Malta Retirement Programme is designed for both EU and Non-EU individuals whose main source of income is pension. Subject to meeting the eligibility criteria, retirees who are beneficiaries of the special tax status under this route can avail of a flat rate of 15% on foreign remitted to Malta whilst their pension will be exempt from tax in Malta.
Why Choose the MRP?
- Tax residency in Malta on a remittance basis
- Tax exemption on the pension.
- Ability to include dependants
- Ideal for high-net-worth retirees.
- Special Tax Status gives preferential tax rates in comparison to the standard resident tax rates.
Malta Nomad Residence Permit
The Malta Nomad Residence Permit offers Malta residency to remote workers and digital nomads from non-EU/EEA/Swiss countries who want to live in Malta while working remotely for overseas employers or clients.
Why choose the Malta Nomad Residence Permit?
- Malta Residency
- Access to Schengen Area
- 10% Income Tax Rate
Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP)
The MPRP is a leading route for non-EU nationals to acquire Malta permanent residence through a combination of real estate, contributions, and asset declarations. It is highly attractive for individuals seeking long-term Malta residency with no minimum physical stay requirements.
Why choose the MPRP?
- Permanent Malta residency for life, for the whole family
- Ability to include children, parents, grandparents
- Visa-free travel within the Schengen Area
- Investment is only required after approval
- No language test or minimum stay requirement
Global Residence Programme (GRP)
The Global Residence Programme is designed for non-EU individuals looking to obtain Malta residence status while benefiting from the country’s attractive tax system.
Why Choose the GRP?
- Tax residency in Malta on a remittance basis
- Ability to include dependants
- Ideal for retirees and high-net-worth individuals
- Special Tax Status gives preferential tax rates in comparison to the standard resident tax rates.
Malta Residence Permit Requirements
Each programme that leads to a Malta Residence Permit is governed by its own specific eligibility criteria, application procedures, and documentation requirements. We have outlined these details below for each respective programme to provide clear guidance to prospective applicants (fo further information, feel free to get in touch with us).
Ordinary Residence
OR Requirements:
- Economic Self-Sufficiency: Proof of sufficient funds (€14,000 for individuals or €23,500 for couples), valid passport, and private health insurance covering Malta.
- Employment in Malta: Requires a local work contract and evidence of accommodation.
- Less Common Routes: Self-employment or study.
Applicants must reside in Malta for at least 3 months exercising their Freedom of Movement right and subsequently apply for an e-Residence card.
The Residence Programme (TRP)
TRP Requirements:
- Government Fee: €6,000 (payable upon application)
- Real Estate:
- Purchase: Minimum €275,000
- Rent: Minimum €9,600/year
- Minimum Tax:
- €15,000 annual tax on income remitted to Malta
Applicants must also:
- Not reside in any other country for more than 183 days a year
- Be financially self-sufficient
- Hold valid health insurance
Malta Retirement Programme (MRP)
MRP Requirements:
- Pension should constitute 75% of applicant’s total chargeable income, all of which must be received in Malta.
- Government Fee: €2,500 (payable upon application)
- Real Estate:
- Purchase: Minimum €220,000
- Rent: Minimum €8,750/year
- Minimum Tax:
- €7,500 annual tax on income remitted to Malta for the main applicant. €500 per additional dependant included in the same application.
Applicants must also:
- Not reside in any other country for more than 183 days a year.
- Be financially self-sufficient.
- Hold valid health insurance.
Malta Nomad Residence Permit
Malta Nomad Residence Permit Requirements:
- Be third-country nationals (non-EU/EEA/Swiss)
- Work remotely using telecoms
Fall under one of these categories:
- Employed by a foreign company.
- Business owner/partner of a foreign company.
- Freelancer/consultant with foreign clients.
Important: Working for a Maltese entity (even a subsidiary of a foreign company) disqualifies you from applying.
Other requirements include:
- Earning a minimum gross annual income of €42,000
- Proof of accommodation in Malta
This permit grants a 1-year Malta residence status, renewable annually if eligibility is maintained. To be eligible for renewal, beneficiaries are required to provide a bank statement showing payment transactions carried out in Malta as proof that they have resided in Malta for a cumulative period of at least five (5) months over the previous twelve (12) months. In addition, Nomad Residence Permit holders must still satisfy the respective eligibility criteria.
Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP)
MPRP Requirements:
- Government Contribution:
- €80,000 if purchasing
(+ €10,000 per additional dependant)
- Property Requirement:
- Rent: Minimum €14,000/year
- Purchase: Minimum €375,000 (property must be held for 5 years)
- Donation:
- €2,000 to a registered Maltese NGO
- Asset Declaration:
- Either €500,000 total assets (€150,000 in financial assets
Global Residence Programme (GRP)
GRP Requirements:
- Government Fee: €6,000 (payable upon application)
- Real Estate:
- Purchase: Minimum €275,000
- Rent: Minimum €9,600/year
- Minimum Tax:
- €15,000 annual tax on income remitted to Malta
Applicants must also:
- Not reside in any other country for more than 183 days a year
- Be financially self-sufficient
- Hold valid health insurance
Malta Residence Permit Application
Whether you're planning to relocate for work, invest in Europe, or simply enjoy the benefits of Malta residence, there is a solution tailored for your profile.
Each Malta residency route has its specific application process, criteria, benefits, and financial thresholds. Choosing the right programme depends on your nationality, goals, and lifestyle needs, hence there is no one-size-fits-all approach. From Ordinary Residence for EU nationals to residency by investment options like the MPRP and GRP, Malta remains a top-tier destination for global citizens.
The process of obtaining a residence permit in Malta involves careful adherence to legal and administrative requirements. Our firm offers professional assistance with the preparation, submission, and follow-up of Malta residence permit applications, ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations. We are committed to providing tailored support to individuals and entities seeking lawful residence in Malta, and to facilitating a smooth and efficient application process.
How We Can Help
Should you require professional guidance or wish to initiate your Malta residence permit application, we invite you to contact us for a confidential consultation. Our team is ready to assist you every step of the way.
