5 Types of Residency Programmes in Malta and Eligibility

Discover the five available types of residency programmes in Malta, including eligibility criteria, associated expenses, and additional details.
Types of Residency Programmes in Malta and Eligibility

If you are looking to relocate to Malta then it’s easier than you might think! There are 5 types of residency programmes in Malta that let you live on this sunny island.

Each one has simple rules about who can join. We’ll show you these options and explain what you need to do to make Malta your new home. Whether you’re coming for work, to relax, or investing in Malta, there’s a programme for you. Let’s take a look at your choices!

1. Malta Ordinary Residence 

Ordinary Residency in Malta requires a physical stay in Malta for at least six months or at least 183 days in any calendar year. The permit is available for EU/EEA applicants after staying in Malta for three months.

Eligibility for this programme depends on the following qualifications: 

  • Financial stability  
  • Employment or studies in Malta  
  • Having family members in Malta  
  • Physical address evidence in Malta through buying or renting a property  
  • Physical stay in Malta for at least three months   
  • You may renew your Ordinary Residence every five years.  

2. Malta Global Residence

The Malta Global Residency Programme (MGRP) allows non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals to acquire a special tax status.

The programme is for applicants looking to buy high-value property in Malta while benefiting from a special tax status and a residence permit.   

The following are eligible to apply:   

  • Third-country and non-Maltese/EEA/Swiss nationals 
  • Applicants with personal health insurance, as well as for the dependents  
  • Financially-stable and Fit and Proper Test passer
  • Applicants with a valid travel document  
  • Applicants fluent in one of Malta’s official languages
  • Holder of a qualifying property  
  • Applicants are represented by an Authorized Registered Mandatory (ARM)   
  • Successful applicants are subject to a minimum annual tax payment of €15,000 and the possibility of claiming double taxation relief. Income tax is at a rate of 15% on foreign source income remitted to Malta.

Note: With the MGRP, applicants can include their spouse, minors, children in their care, and adopted adult children with special needs. Read more about this programme: Malta Golden Residence Programme. 

3. Malta Single Permit Application

The Single Permit authorizes third-country nationals to legally reside and work in Malta for a defined period, which may be further renewed.  

Eligibility for the programme depends on the following qualifications: 

  • Physical address evidence in Malta through buying or renting a property  
  • Employment, self-employment, or holding a company in Malta   
  • An employment license is required to work in Malta.   
  • Self-employment requires an investment in Malta capital expenditure of at least €500,000 within six months from when Jobsplus issues the license.   
  • Have a business plan and commitment to recruit at least three EEA/Swiss/Maltese nationals within 18 months of establishment.   
  • The company must lead a project formally approved by Malta Enterprise and formally notified to Jobsplus. 
  • Self-employment applies to Shareholders of a Malta company, given that they have paid share capital of at least €500,000. Share capital cannot be redeemed, reduced, or transferred for the first two years and should be through cash or stock injection in Malta.   

Important Note: In the case of applying for Employed applicants, a local employer should endorse applications. They can be made even with the applicant still abroad or legally staying in Maltese territory. Successful applicants may further renew their permits. 

4. Nomad Residence Permit

Malta’s Nomad Residence Permit, introduced in 2021, is a highly attractive scheme for digital nomads and other remote workers. The permit allows holders to stay in Malta for up to a year and gives them access to several benefits, including healthcare.

To qualify for the permit, applicants must have a valid passport, travel insurance, and enough money to support themselves during their stay in Malta.  

5. Malta Permanent Residence

The Malta Permanent Residence Programme provides an opportunity for non-European nationals and their families to become permanent residents of Malta by investing in the country.  

Permanent Residency in Malta allows you to move and settle down in the country and enjoy the benefits of the status, avoiding tedious renewals or mandatory minimum physical stays. It also allows you to maximize visa-free travel to all Schengen Areas. 

There are two investment options, depending on whether you opt to purchase or rent a property. Both offer the same benefits for a lifetime.   

Requirements for Malta Permanent Residency Programme:   

  • Minimum 18 years of age and a non-EU citizen  
  • Be able to invest in necessary amounts to meet qualifying requirements.  
  • Need to maintain and hold the property investment for a minimum of five years  
  • Maintain health and have a clean criminal record  
  • Not subject to criminal proceedings
  • Acquire global health insurance coverage  
  • Submit a record of sufficient funds and proof of assets of at least EUR 500,000, with at least EUR 150,000 in financial assets.  
  • Not be considered a potential national security risk
  • Have a stable and regular source of income 

Need Help?

Whether you are a digital nomad, retiree, or a family moving to Malta, we can help you with the relocation process, any necessary documents, translation services, taxes, finding a property, etc. Let us know if you need any help by contacting us.

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