British nationals in Malta need to follow a structured residency application process depending on whether they were residing in the country before or after January 1, 2021. For those who arrived before Brexit, the process is simpler, as they were required to apply for a new residency status to maintain their rights. Meanwhile, for those seeking residency after Brexit, they are now classified as Third-Country Nationals and must follow specific procedures for legal residence.
British Nationals in Malta – Before Brexit
British nationals in Malta before Brexit had the opportunity to apply for new residency status under the Withdrawal Agreement. This program was in place to ensure UK nationals and their family members retained their rights to live, work, and access social services in Malta. The application process was required to be completed by June 30, 2021, for all those who were residing in Malta before the UK’s official departure from the EU.
Once approved, UK nationals received a new residency permit that allows them to reside in Malta for a period of ten years. This residency status is similar to that of EU citizens, including rights to access healthcare, social services, and other entitlements available to Maltese residents. Those who missed the deadline or failed to apply for residency may face more complicated processes if they wish to remain in the country.
British Nationals Moving to Malta After Brexit
UK citizens who wish to move to Malta after Brexit must apply as third-country nationals. This means they need to follow the standard residency permit application process, which involves meeting certain financial and property requirements. One of the most popular residency routes for UK nationals is the Malta Permanent Residency Program (MPRP), which offers the right to live in Malta with the possibility of permanent settlement.
The Malta Permanent Residency Programme (MPRP)
The Malta Permanent Residency Programme (MPRP) is one of the most attractive options for UK nationals post-Brexit. The program allows applicants and their families to reside in Malta permanently in exchange for fulfilling specific criteria. This includes:
- Financial Requirements: Applicants need to pay a one-time non-refundable fee of €98,000 if renting a property, or €68,000 if purchasing a property. The minimum property purchase prices are €300,000 for properties in Gozo or the south of Malta and €350,000 for properties in northern and central Malta.
- Property Requirements: Applicants can either rent or purchase a property. For rental properties, the minimum annual rent is €10,000 for Gozo and the south of Malta or €12,000 for the north and central areas. For purchased properties, the minimum purchase price must meet the thresholds above.
- Donation: A minimum donation of €2,000 to a local NGO is required.
- Additional Requirements: Applicants must also show assets exceeding €500,000, of which €150,000 must be in liquid assets.
Once approved, applicants enjoy permanent residency with the right to reside in Malta indefinitely. The residency permit is not tied to employment or income sources, making it a flexible option for those who wish to live in Malta long-term.
Global Residence Programme (GRP)
Another popular option is the Global Residence Programme (GRP), which offers British nationals in Malta a special tax status while residing in. This program offers:
- Financial Contribution: Applicants pay a non-refundable government fee of €6,000. There are also requirements to either rent or buy a qualifying property, with rental prices ranging from €8,750 to €9,600 annually, or purchase properties starting at €220,000 to €275,000, depending on the location.
- Tax Benefits: The GRP offers a competitive tax regime, with a flat 15% tax rate on foreign income remitted to Malta, along with an annual minimum tax payment of €15,000. Applicants also benefit from no tax on foreign income not remitted to Malta.
- Family Inclusion: This program allows applicants to include family members such as children, parents, and even grandparents under the same application.
Employment in Malta for UK Nationals Post-Brexit
Following Brexit, British nationals are classified as Third-Country Nationals (TCNs) when seeking employment in Malta. This designation requires them to obtain a work permit, known as the Einzelgenehmigung, that has to be submitted through Identià, the official agency responsible for processing residency permits, which grants the legal right to reside and work in Malta. To apply for the Einzelgenehmigung, applicants must first secure a signed employment contract with a Maltese employer.
The application process for the Single Permit is conducted online through the designated work permit portal. Once the application is approved, the applicant receives an In-Principle Approval Letter, enabling them to book a biometric appointment. Upon completing the biometric appointment, the individual is authorized to begin employment with the Maltese company.
It is important to note that applicants are not permitted to commence work until they have been issued the Authorization to work (blue paper). Additionally, employers are required by law to submit an Engagement Form to Jobs plus on the same day the employee begins work.
Statistics on British Nationals in Malta
As of recent statistics, there are approximately 13,000 British nationals in Malta, making them one of the largest expatriate communities on the island. The British population in Malta is largely composed of retirees, professionals, and entrepreneurs, many of whom are attracted by the favorable tax incentives, Mediterranean climate, and high quality of life. With Brexit, this number may see some shifts, as more UK nationals apply for residency under the new rules.
Schlussfolgerung
For British nationals wishing to move to Malta, it’s important to first understand residency options like the Malta Permanent Residency Programme (MPRP) or Global Residence Programme (GRP) and ensure you meet the financial and property requirements. You’ll also need comprehensive health insurance and, if you plan to work, apply for a Single Permit as third-country nationals. Consider seeking professional assistance. Our team is here to help and guide you through the residency and work permit processes with ease. Lastly, stay updated on any changes to immigration regulations post-Brexit to ensure a seamless transition.
Further Read:
Arbeitsgenehmigungen für Drittstaatsangehörige: Ein Überblick über Verfahren und Anforderungen
Innovatives Portal der Expatriates Unit in Malta: Vereinfachen Sie Ihre Expat-Reise
Integration in die Gemeinschaft auf Malta: Ein Leitfaden für Expats
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