Malta has gained much popularity as a residency option for many investors, families, and businessmen. The country meets the demands of the global market with its economic environment. With its geographical position, high-quality facilities, and stable political climate, it’s a perfect hub for foreign investment.
The country attracts businessmen and investors with Malta Permanent Residence Program (MRPR) which offers flexible investment options. It’s a straightforward program based on property investments and government contributions. The program promises a four to six-month processing time from the submission of a complete and correct application. MPRP offers value to individuals who wish to make Malta their second home.
So, this blog post will be about Malta residency by investment and how you can attain residency status on this beautiful island.
What You Will Find in This Article
- What Is Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP)
- How To Apply for MPRP
- Investment Options For Malta Permanent Residence Programme
- Benefits of the Malta Permanent Residence Programme
- Malta Permanent Residence Programme Application Process
- Step-by-Step Guide to MPRP
- Required Documents for Malta Permanent Residence Programme
- Supporting Documents for MPRP
- Annual Compliance with MPRP
- Frequently Asked Questions on Malta Permanent Residence Programme
What Is Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP)
The Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) is a program that allows individuals to obtain permanent residence status in Malta. Through the MPRP, investors can apply for residency in Malta and enjoy the benefits its residents have. The program has been designed with an eye toward what makes Malta attractive: safe, secure, and offering quality health care, and quality of life.
The latest changes in the program have made it a lot easier to get a Malta residence permit. The new rules exclude buying government bonds. You can now apply either by property acquisition or property lease, along with contributions and donations.
How To Obtain Malta Permanent Residence
As per the amendments made in the Malta Permanent Residence Programme, you’ll be required to meet the eligibility criteria and requirements to obtain the residency.
Eligibility Criteria
You’re eligible for the program if you,
- Are a third-country national and not coming from an EU or EEA state.
- Aren’t a citizen of a country that the agencies sanction
- Have sufficient financial funds to maintain yourself and your dependents.
- Own capital assets of a minimum of €500,000.
- Have a clean criminal record.
Requirements
- Apply for the program through a licensed agent.
- Pay the one-time application fee of €98,000 for the lease route/€68,000 for the property acquisition.
- Rent property in Malta for €12,000 per annum. The amount is €10,000 for the South of Malta and Gozo, or
- Purchase a property in Malta for €350,000. The amount is €300,000 for the South of Malta and Gozo.
- For each additional adult dependent, pay an extra €7,500.
- Donate €2,000 to a local philanthropic organization or NGO registered with the Commissioner of Voluntary Organisations.
- Provide a valid travel document.
- Get a health insurance policy to cover all health risks throughout your stay in Malta.
- Travel insurance to cover your traveling across Schengen.
Note: You’ll be required to keep the property for a minimum period of five years.
Investment Options for Malta Permanent Residence Programme
There are two routes of residency by investment in Malta MPRP: Property lease and property acquisition. With the MPRP, you can make your investment once you receive your pre-approval.
Rental Option
You can choose to rent the property instead of buying one. This option entails a lease of a property situated in the south of Malta or Gozo for €10,000 per annum. For a property situated in the rest of Malta, the amount is €12,000 per annum. With the lease option, you’re required to pay an application fee of €98,000 to the government, and donate €2,000 to an NGO in Malta.
You’re eligible to buy a property after you’ve rented one, as long as the criteria are met.
Property Acquisition
With this option, you’re required to buy a property for €300,000 in the South of Malta or Gozo; or for €350,000 in the rest of the country. With the property acquisition option, you’re required to pay €68,000 to the government as an application fee and donate €2,000 to an NGO in Malta.
You can add your parents or grandparents who are dependent on you. In this case, you’ll be required to pay an additional fee of €7,500.
Get passvisa: Who We Are and How We Can Help You
Get passvisa is a full-service investment immigration agency. We provide end-to-end solutions on residence and citizenship by investment programs worldwide.
At Get passvisa, we specialize in helping clients from all around the world apply for residency programs all across the globe, including Malta Permanent Residence Programme. Contact us to get more information on MPRP and speak to one of our experts.
Benefits of the Malta Permanent Residence Programme
Malta is a member of the European Union. Its citizens are allowed to travel across the EU without the need for an additional visa. With your MPRP application and approval as a resident, you can benefit from the below rights:
- Enjoying visa-free travel within the Schengen area,
- Keeping your residence permit without moving to Malta,
- Adding family members of up to four generations,
- Getting full rights to live, work, study, and settle in Malta.
Maltese residence cards are issued with a validity of five years and they’re renewable.
Malta Permanent Residence Programme Application Process
The Malta Permanent Residence Programme application process requires a high level of due diligence. There are specific requirements to meet to be eligible for a Maltese residence permit. This includes all relevant fees and documents, as well as submitting original copies of various certificates.
The application takes four to six months to process.
Step-by-Step Guide to Malta Permanent Residence Programme
- Prepare your documents and start your application. Pay €10,000 government fees along with your application.
- Wait for the due diligence process to be finalized. Once it’s completed, you’ll receive a Letter of Approval in Principle.
- Visit Malta for biometrics.
- Make your investment, donate the required amount, and settle the balance of the administrative fee.
- Get your Maltese residence permits.
Required Documents for Malta Permanent Residence Programme
The below documents are required for the Malta Permanent Residence Programme:
- Signed cover letter
- Power of attorney document
- Form MRVP6 and your biometric data along with all dependents over the age of 12 and any/all donors/benefactors.
- Form MRVP1, MRVP2 (personal details), MRVP3 (medical reports), and Form MRVP4 (declaration dependent) as applicable
- Verification documents if the parent of the minor is not an applicant but has signed his/her form
- Proof of conduct of the due diligence process
- Evidence of funds and wealth resources
- Bank statements from banks of the native country
- Business ownership evidence (if applicable)
- Employment proof (if applicable)
- Valid international passport/s
- ID Cards issued by the government of the country
- Birth certificates
- Marriage certificate
- Divorce certificate(s) (if applicable)
- Military records (if applicable)
- Residential address proof abroad
- Certificates of code of conduct from the police
- Affidavit of dependency (if applicable)
- Other supporting documentation
Supporting Documents for MPRP
Supporting documents are to be provided when asked by the legal agent.
Besides, make sure that the original official documents are apostille/legalized by the government authority of the issuing country.
A valid certified copy of an apostilled, legalized document is acceptable. However, if the certification has been prepared outside of your country, please provide a notarized certificate from that organization to prove authenticity.
Also, these original or certified true copies need to be translated and apostilled/legalized if done abroad.
Renewal of Maltese Residence Card
The Maltese residence card is a five-year visa that can be renewed. Minors under the age of 14 with this type of card have expiration dates one month after their birthday. The same applies to dependents over 18 years old, so make sure you renew your cards before they expire. Renewals are done in the ID Malta office.
Annual Compliance With MPRP
Every year, you’ll be required to submit your lease agreement. Another document to submit is the annual health insurance policy. This is mandatory for the first five years.
Frequently Asked Questions on Malta Permanent Residence Programme
Who is eligible to apply for permanent residence in Malta?
If you’re a third-country national, excluding EU, EEA, and Switzerland, you might be eligible for Malta permanent residence. Applicants who are from certain countries aren’t eligible to apply for permanent residence in Malta.. As this list might change from time to time, it’s going to be useful to check on a regular basis.
Can I Add My Family Members When I Apply For Permanent Residence in Malta?
Yes, you can add your family members who are dependent on you.
Is There an Age Limit To Add My Parents or Grandparents for Permanent Residence in Malta?
No, there isn’t any limitation.
How Can I Prove That an Adult Is Dependent on Me As the Main Applicant for Malta Permanent Residence Programme?
You’ll be required to declare their status in an affidavit.
Do I Have To Submit Evidence of Employment If I’m Not Self-Employed as the Main Applicant?
Yes, you’ll be required to submit evidence of employment if you’re not self-employed.
Can I Add Dependents After I Obtain the Maltese Residence?
Yes, you can. You’ll need to submit a separate application pack with all the required documents.
What Is The Requirement For Health Insurance?
The health insurance required for Malta Permanent Residence Programme is to cover all beneficiaries for a minimum of €30,000 per year. Also, note that you’ll need separate travel insurance for your travel across Schengen countries.
Is There a Language Test To Get a Maltese Residence Permit?
No, Malta Permanent Residence Programme doesn’t require you to take a language test.
Can I Get Malta Citizenship By Investment?
MPRP is a residency program and might lead to Malta citizenship after a certain period. If you’re looking for a quicker route, check our guide on Malta citizenship by investment.
What Is the Minimum Investment for Residence in Malta?
The minimum investment amount is the rental lease option which starts from €10,000. When you choose this option, you’ll be required to make a contribution of €58,000 to the Maltese government. Plus, there is an administrative fee of €40,000. A €2,000 donation to an NGO is also required.
If I Apply To Malta Permanent Residence Program With My Entire Family, What Do I Pay as a Contribution?
If you’re purchasing a property, you’ll pay the contribution fee of €28,000. If you’re renting this amount is €58,000. This fee covers you, your spouse, and children who are dependent on you
If you want to add parents and grandparents, you’ll pay an additional fee of €7,500 for each member.
Will My Malta Residence Certificate And The Residence Card Expire?
The residence certificate doesn’t expire. However, the Malta residence card is initially valid for five years. After this period, you can renew them.
Do I Have To Take A Language Test To Apply For Malta Permanent Residence Programme?
No language tests are applicable.
Do I Have To Submit The Health Policy With Other Requirements When My Application Has Been Approved for Malta Permanent Residence Programme?
Yes, you’ll submit the health policy with your declaration stating that you take care of any additional medical expenses locally for all the beneficiaries.
Can I Work In Malta With My Malta Permanent Residence Card?
Malta Permanent Residence Programme doesn’t grant you an employment license. You’ll need to apply for a work permit.
Can I Work in an EU Country With My Malta Residence Permit?
Your Malta residence permit doesn’t grant you any employment rights in the Schengen Area.
Can I Travel To Schengen Countries With My Malta Residence Permit?
Yes, you can. You can travel to Schengen countries with your Malta residence permit cards, without any additional visa. Please note that this is applicable for a maximum period of 90 days within a 180-day period.
Will My Dependents Lose Their Residence Right in Malta Once They Turn 27?
No, the 27-year threshold is no longer applicable.
Will My Children Lose Their Malta Residence Status When They Turn 18?
No, they won’t as long as they still meet the eligibility criteria.
Am I Required To Show €500,000 Capital Only for the First Five Years?
Yes, you’re required to hold €500,000 capital with €150,00 in financial assets for the first five years only.
Are De Facto Partnerships Accepted Under the Malta Permanent Residence Programme?
Yes, de facto partnerships are accepted as long as you can submit the relevant documentation.
What Are the Criteria for €2,000 Donation?
You’ll be required to make a contribution of €2,000 to a local registered philanthropic, cultural, sport, scientific, animal welfare, or artistic NGO.
Do I Need To Buy or Lease a Property in Malta During the Application Stage?
No. You can make your real estate investment within eight months from the date of issue of the Letter of Approval in Principle.
Can I Sell Or Stop Leasing the Declared Property During the First Five Years and Buy Another Property?
Yes, you can do so as long as the new property meets the conditions. However, you’re not allowed to switch to a leased property from an owned property during the first five years.
Is €500,000 Capital Requirement Separate from the Value Of Property Acquired/Leased In Malta?
Yes, it’s separate. You’re required to show that you’re in possession of €500,000 capital, out of which a minimum of €150,000 is financial assets. This will be monitored for the first five years.
Can I Show My Crypto Assets As Financial Assets When I Apply For Malta Permanent Residence Programme?
No, the assets are required to be liquid, such as stocks, bonds, funds, and bank deposits.
How Will I Pay The Initial €10,000 For Malta Permanent Residence Programme?
You’re required to pay the fee via an electronic bank transfer
Do I Have To Pay Extra Fees When I Renew My Malta Residence Card After Five Years?
Yes, €27.50 is payable for each individual for the renewal of Malta residence card.
Do I Have To Visit Malta For Biometrics After the First Five Years?
Yes, you and your dependents are required to revisit Malta for your biometrics.
