One of the most popular citizenships programmes in the world, offering visa-free travel to 154 countries.
Although Malta is the smallest member of the European Union, it offers an outsized array of attractions, business opportunities, and lifestyle advantages. This Mediterranean archipelago blends ancient history, modern prosperity, and sun-soaked living in a uniquely balanced way.
Visitors and residents alike can explore prehistoric temples, medieval fortresses, and vibrant coastal towns surrounded by turquoise seas. Beyond its scenic charm, Malta thrives as a hub for international industries, including finance, gaming, technology, and film production.
The island’s culinary culture, world-class diving, and year-round social calendar add to its magnetic appeal, making Malta not only a stunning destination but also a dynamic environment for investors seeking stability and quality of life.
Launched in 2021, the Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) is one of Europe’s most respected residency-by-investment frameworks. It caters to non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss nationals, offering them and their families the opportunity to secure permanent residency in Malta through a set of approved financial commitments.
Qualifying applicants can obtain residency within four to six months, enjoying the right to live in Malta and visa-free travel across the Schengen Zone. In exchange, investors are required to complete a combination of property investment or rental, a government contribution, and a charitable donation.
The MPRP is recognised for its efficiency, transparency, and the strong reputation of Residency Malta Agency, which oversees the programme.
Applicants may either purchase a home valued at a minimum of €375,000 or lease a property with an annual rent of at least €14,000.
These properties must be maintained for a minimum of five years, though the investment or lease agreement can be finalised after the initial application is approved.
A total government contribution of €97,000 is required, paid in two stages:
€10,000 upon submission of the non-refundable application, and
The remaining balance following final approval.
This contribution supports Malta’s economic and community development initiatives.
Applicants must make a minimum €2,000 donation to a registered non-governmental organisation (NGO) approved by the Residency Malta Agency. Eligible causes include scientific research, animal welfare, culture, sports, heritage, and the arts.
To qualify, applicants must demonstrate financial self-sufficiency, showing either:
€500,000 in total assets (with at least €150,000 in liquid form), or
€650,000 in total assets (with at least €75,000 in liquid form).
All dependents aged 18 or older must provide an affidavit of financial support. Additional dependents — such as unmarried adult children, parents, or grandparents — may be included for an extra contribution of €7,500 per person.
The length of the process depends on several factors, such as how long it takes to find the right property investment and the time needed to prepare all of the relevant documents.
On average, applications are processed within 4-6 months of submission. Final approval and receiving residency cards happen after the application is processed. However, applicants also receive temporary residence permit at submission valid for one year.
The eligibility requirements for the Malta Permanent Residence Programme are:
Non-EU nationals, non-EEA, non-Swiss and from a non-sanctioned country
Be over 18 years old
To pass the ‘Fit & Proper’ test with a clean criminal record, which is checked by Europol, Interpol and other authorities
Be in good health and hold valid health insurance which covers their presence in Malta
Provide evidence that they hold at least €500,000 in capital, out of which €150,000 should be in the form of financial assets
Family members can be included in the application. Those eligible include:
Spouse or life partner
Children under the age of 18
Children over the age of 18 and under the age of 29, provided they are dependent, not married and not economically active
Children over the age of 18, provided that they have been certified by a medical professional as having a disability as per the Equal Opportunities Act
Dependent parents of the applicant or the spouse
Dependent grandparents of the applicant or the spouse
No additional contribution is necessary for spouse or minor children, but there is an additional €7,509 cost for adult dependents.
Health insurance coverage is required to apply for the MPRP. The insurance should cover all beneficiaries for a minimum of €30,000 annually.