STRATEGIC ACCESS TO EUROPE & THE SCHENGEN AREA
Malta Permanent Residency by Investment
Malta’s Permanent Residency Programme offers high-net-worth individuals a reliable and structured path to secure European residency without the need to relocate.
This prestigious programme grants lifetime residency rights in Malta—a member of the European Union and part of the Schengen Zone—offering investors long-term mobility, fiscal stability, and access to a high-quality lifestyle.
With this programme, applicants gain visa-free access across 29 Schengen countries and the right to reside indefinitely in Malta. While not providing direct citizenship, the programme is a stepping stone to EU long-term resident status after five years, offering greater mobility and rights across the European Union.
Situated at the crossroads of Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East, Malta combines robust financial services, strong governance, and an investor-friendly tax system. The residency programme includes flexible investment options, fast-track approvals, and full family eligibility, making it one of the most advantageous EU residency routes.
Malta Residency is extended to spouses, dependent children (no age limit for dependent adult children), parents, and grandparents, making it a future-proof solution for families seeking European security and mobility.
Key Features of the Programme
— Lifetime permanent residency granted in 4–6 months
— Visa-free travel across 29 Schengen countries
— No requirement to reside in Malta before or after approval
— Real estate purchase or rental options tailored to regional preferences
— Includes spouse, financially dependent children, parents & grandparents
— Pathway to EU long-term residency after 5 years
— No inheritance tax or worldwide income tax (unless remitted)
— Reliable and transparent EU country with high living standards
Malta residence card holders may apply for EU long-term resident status after five years, unlocking limited mobility and residence rights within the European Union.
This status is available to non-EU nationals who have legally and continuously resided in Malta for five years under a valid residence permit. Once granted, EU long-term resident status allows individuals to reside in another EU member state for work, education, or business—subject to each country’s national rules and quotas.
Over time, long-term residents may gain greater access to employment and social benefits in the host EU country. However, admission is not automatic and each member state may assess applicants based on integration, financial resources, and accommodation standards. Rights vary between countries, and relocation is not guaranteed.
This pathway offers enhanced stability and future mobility options within the EU, especially for families seeking long-term residence in Europe.
Investment Requirements & Costs
To qualify for Malta’s Permanent Residency Programme (MPRP), applicants must meet the following eligibility and financial criteria:
Eligibility Criteria
- Must not be from a sanctioned jurisdiction as defined by the Residency Malta Agency
- Must not benefit under any other relevant Maltese regulations or schemes
- Must possess stable and regular financial resources to support themselves and their dependants without relying on Malta’s social assistance system
- Must hold:
- Capital assets of at least €500,000, with a minimum of €150,000 in financial assets; OR
- Capital assets of at least €650,000, of which at least €75,000 must be financial assets
- Must have a clean criminal record and be deemed a fit-and-proper individual
- Must not pose any threat to Malta’s national security, public health, or public order
Financial Criteria
Applicants must ALSO meet all three of the following core investment conditions:
GOVERNMENT CONTRIBUTION
Applicants must make a non-refundable contribution to the Maltese Government, depending on their chosen real estate option:
- €60,000 if opting to rent a qualifying property; or
- €30,000 if opting to purchase qualifying real estate
This contribution supports the economic and social development of Malta.
REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT
Applicants must either:
- Purchase a property valued at a minimum of €375,000; or
- Rent a property with a minimum annual lease of €14,000
The property must be held for at least 5 years
PHILANTHROPIC DONATION
A donation of €2,000 must be made to a registered Maltese NGO involved in cultural, educational, scientific, philanthropic, animal welfare, or artistic activities.
Government Fees and Other Costs
In addition to the investment criteria, the following fees apply:
- Application Fee: €50,000 (non-refundable, includes administrative costs) and €10,000 for each dependent
- Residence Card Fee: €137.50 per person (valid for 5 years)
- Health Insurance: Varies based on age and coverage, approx. €300–€1,000 per year
- Legal & Professional Fees: Typically €10,000–€15,000 depending on family size and complexity
Coates Global offers transparent guidance with no hidden fees. A full cost breakdown is provided during your private consultation.
Malta’s Residency by Investment Programme is a gateway to Europe, offering long-term stability, tax advantages, and visa-free Schengen travel—all without the need to relocate.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Step 1: Consultation & Pre-Approval
Our advisors assess your eligibility and help you select the optimal investment route. A power of attorney is signed for document preparation. - Step 2: Application Submission & Due Diligence
Documents are compiled and submitted to the Residency Malta Agency. Due diligence begins and background checks are initiated. - Step 3: Letter of Approval in Principle
Upon successful background screening, applicants receive a formal approval to proceed with the investments. - Step 4: Fulfilment of Investment Requirements
Complete the government contribution, real estate purchase or lease, and NGO donation. Provide evidence of health insurance. - Step 5: Residency Card Issuance
Once all conditions are met, your permanent residency card is issued. Residency cards are valid for 5 years and renewable.
Frequently Asked Questions
The entire process typically takes 4 to 6 months, depending on the completeness of the documentation and the due diligence process conducted by the Malta Residency Agency (MRA). Once approved, the residency permit is issued within 1 to 2 weeks after biometric registration in Malta.
No, there is no mandatory minimum stay requirement. Applicants do not need to reside in Malta full-time but must maintain their investment and show a genuine link to the country, such as occasional visits, business engagement, or social ties.
Yes, the Malta Residency by Investment Programme allows the inclusion of spouses, children, parents, and grandparents. Dependent children up to 27 years old can be included, provided they are financially dependent on the main applicant.
Applicants must meet both investment requirements:
- Purchase a property worth at least €300,000 – €350,000 or rent a property with a minimum annual lease of €10,000 – €12,000, depending on the location, and
- Make a government contribution of €68,000 – €98,000, plus a €2,000 donation to a registered Maltese NGO.
No, this programme grants permanent residency, not citizenship. However, after five years of legal residence, investors may apply for EU long-term resident status, which provides expanded rights in Malta and the European Union.
No, this programme does not automatically grant work rights. However, investors can establish and operate businesses in Malta, and a separate work permit can be applied for if employment is required.
Malta has an attractive tax system for non-domiciled residents. Foreign income is not taxed unless remitted to Malta. There is also no inheritance tax, wealth tax, or capital gains tax on foreign investments.
Yes, most of the application process can be completed remotely, except for biometric submission, which requires a visit to Malta. Coates Global will coordinate all aspects of your application and arrange your biometric appointment.
Yes, residency may be revoked if:
- The applicant fails to maintain their investment (real estate/rental & government contribution).
- False or misleading information is provided during the application process.
- The applicant is found guilty of serious criminal activity or financial misconduct.
Yes, with a Maltese residence permit, you can travel freely across the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without needing a visa. This allows you to visit any of the 27 Schengen countries for business, leisure, or personal reasons.
However, this permit does not grant automatic work or residency rights in other EU countries. To reside or work in another Schengen country, additional permits may be required under that country’s national regulations.
No, you do not need to maintain your investment permanently, but you must hold the real estate investment or rental agreement for at least five years to comply with the programme’s requirements.
If you purchased a property, you must retain ownership for a minimum of five years before selling it.
If you rented a property, you must continue leasing it for at least five years before choosing to discontinue the rental agreement.
After the five-year period, there are no further investment obligations, and you can choose to sell the property or discontinue the lease while retaining your permanent residency status.
Contact Us today, and our experts will provide you with personalized guidance and full support throughout your Malta Residency application.
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Every time a client receives their residency or citizenship approval, we’re reminded why this work matters. It's not just paperwork — it’s about transforming lives and creating new legacies.
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Helping high-net-worth clients gain citizenship is more than a transaction. It’s about long-term security, mobility, and legacy planning — and we ensure it's done with precision.
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