All You Need to Know About the Process of Applying for Residency in Malta

Malta has become one of Europe’s most sought-after destinations for international investors, entrepreneurs, and families seeking EU residency. This Mediterranean island nation offers an attractive combination of favourable tax structures, excellent quality of life, and strategic location within the European Union.

If you’re considering relocating to Malta or securing a second residency, you need to understand the application process. And for those seeking full citizenship, Premier Consultancy has the experience and expertise to streamline your application process and provide guidance beyond residency to include pathways to Malta passport programmes.

Why Consider Malta Residency?

Malta residency provides rights to live and work in the country, but doesn’t include voting rights or automatic access to a Maltese passport. Most residency programmes don’t lead directly to citizenship, though separate citizenship pathways exist after extended residence periods. Despite these, Malta’s residency programmes appeal to individuals around the world for several reasons. In addition to its pleasant climate, natural beauty, and cultural heritage. Advantages of a Malta residency include:

Schengen Access

Malta residency grants visa-free travel throughout the 29-country Schengen area, under the 90/180-day rule. This mobility benefit is invaluable for business professionals looking to expand to Europe, families with European interests, and those maintaining international lifestyles.

Favourable Tax Structure

Malta operates a remittance-based taxation system for non-domiciled residents. This means you only pay tax on income and capital gains remitted to Malta. This structure can result in significant tax savings for international investors with diversified income sources.

Quality Healthcare and Education

Malta consistently ranks well on global indices of human development, including in factors like education and healthcare. Its residents have access to quality services and high standards of public and private systems in these areas.

Long-Term EU Residence Pathway

After maintaining Malta residency for 5 years and meeting the physical presence requirements, residents can apply for long-term EU resident status. This provides additional security and mobility benefits across the European Union.

Malta Residency Pathways

Malta’s various residency programmes serve different investor profiles and family situations, making it a popular choice for those seeking European residency without the higher investment thresholds required in other EU countries. 

Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP)

The MPRP requires either purchasing property worth at least EUR 375,000 or securing a long-term lease of EUR 14,000 annually for a minimum period of 5 years. Additionally, applicants must make a government contribution of EUR 37,000 for property purchased or leased, plus a EUR 2,000 donation to registered NGOs. 

Malta Global Residence Programme (GRP)

Specifically designed for non-EU/EEA nationals, the GRP offers a flat-rate tax of 15% on foreign income remitted to Malta, with a minimum annual tax liability of EUR 15,000. This programme particularly benefits high-net-worth individuals with substantial foreign income.

Malta Ordinary Residence (OR) 

EU nationals and citizens of Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Iceland can establish ordinary residence by demonstrating financial self-sufficiency, purchasing or renting property in Malta, and having comprehensive health insurance. This straightforward option provides full residence rights without specific investment requirements.

Malta Tax Residence Programme (TRP)

Available to EU citizens who don’t spend more than 183 days in any single jurisdiction outside Malta, the TRP offers a 15% tax rate on income brought into Malta. This programme suits digital nomads and internationally mobile EU citizens.

Malta Retirement Programme (MRP) 

Both EU and non-EU retirees can access this programme provided their pension represents at least 75% of their total annual income. The programme offers attractive tax benefits for qualifying pension income.

Malta Nomad Residence Permit (MNRP) 

This renewable one-year visa caters to non-EU nationals working remotely for clients outside Malta. The programme requires proof of stable income and health insurance coverage.

Malta Startup Residence Programme (MSRP) 

Designed for startup founders, co-founders, and core employees of non-EU nationality, this programme requires a minimum €25,000 capital investment in an innovative startup recognised by Malta Enterprise.

Premier Consultancy provides comprehensive end-to-end support throughout the Malta residency application process, managing complexities and ensuring compliance with all requirements.

Eligibility Checklist

Before applying for residency in Malta, you need to understand the basic eligibility criteria to determine programme suitability and preparation needs.

Basic Requirements

All programmes require applicants to be at least 18 years of age and have a clean criminal record. Medical certificates confirming good health are typically required.

Financial Means

Applicants must provide bank statements, investment portfolios, and income documentation to demonstrate sufficient financial stability and resources to support themselves and any dependents.

Source of Funds

Malta maintains strict due diligence standards requiring proof of legitimate sources for all investment funds. Documentation must clearly trace fund origins through banking records, business ownership, property sales, or other verifiable sources.

Complete and accurate documentation is important when applying for residency in Malta. Missing or incorrect documents can cause delays or rejection. Professional guidance can help avoid these problems.

Malta Residency Application Process

• Preliminary consultation: We’ll assess your objectives, budget, and timeline, then match you to the most suitable route.
• Document preparation: We’ll gather passport copies, bank statements, medical forms, police certificates, and proofs of address. If required, we’ll arrange for certified translations, notarisations, and apostilles.
• Submission to Malta government agency: We’ll file the forms and investment plans (if applicable) and pay due diligence and processing fees.
• Agency review and background checks: We’ll monitor your file and respond promptly to information inquiries, ensuring your application process moves smoothly.
• Approval in principle: You’ll receive a letter stating what’s needed next, whether a property lease or purchase, contribution payments, and any remaining paperwork.
• Investment completion: Finalise a qualifying investment in real estate, government contribution, and settle administrative fees.
• Residence card issuance: Complete biometrics in Malta, then collect your e-residence card, which is typically valid for up to 5 years and renewable depending on your programme.

Premier Consultancy’s experienced advisors can expertly guide you through every step of the process and manage your application from start to finish. We’ll provide ongoing support and assistance even when you’ve received your residency status, whether to help with international tax planning, renewals, adding family members, or transitioning to a citizenship pathway. Contact Premier Consultancy for a detailed consultation.