Malta is a strategically located island nation in southeastern Europe, known for its stable economy, English-speaking environment, Mediterranean lifestyle, and strong access to Europe. With its high quality of life, safe environment, and business-friendly ecosystem, Malta is one of the most attractive destinations for permanent residency in Europe.
Country Overview
Area: 316 sq. km.
Population in 2026: 574,000
Official language: Maltese and English
Currency: Euro
Malta is a member of: Schengen Zone, EU, UN, Commonwealth of Nations
Capital: Valletta
Residency granted within: 9 months from submission
Program Overview
The Malta Permanent Residency Program was established in 2016. It allows its permanent resident to reside, work, and study in Malta, as well as all other EU members. Residency can be granted within 9 months from submission of the application.
Key Benefits
- Will entitle holders to live, work, and study in Malta.
- Visa-free travel within Europe’s Schengen Area.
- Issuance of temporary residence cards within month while awaiting permanent residency cards.
- Eligibility to apply for citizenship.
- High standard of living.
- Safe and stable environment with low crime rates.
- Strategic location with proximity to the MENA region.
- Ease of communication for Arabic speakers due to linguistic similarities with the Maltese language.
Terms and Conditions
- The main applicant must be 18 years old or above.
- The main applicant must demonstrate a net worth of either €500,000 (including €150,000 in liquid assets), or €650,000 (including €75,000 in liquid assets).
- The applicant must maintain the real estate investment (rental or purchase) for a minimum period of 5 years; otherwise, the residency status may be revoked.
- Citizens of Russia, Belarus, Venezuela, Iran, Afghanistan, Sudan, South Sudan, North Korea, Yemen, Congo, and Somalia are not eligible to apply, including dual or multiple nationality holders.
Investment Options
- Option 1: Property Rental
Rent a property for a minimum of €14,000 annually for 5 years - Option 2: Property Purchase
Purchase a property with a minimum value of €375,000
Investment & Application Fees
Government Contribution
Main Applicant / Family: €99,000
Additional Fees
- Residence card: €500 per applicant
- Professional fees: €10,000
Estimated Total for Program & Property Fees
Starting from €129,000 for a family of 4 (rental option)
Services by Respect and Partners
The residence program in Malta is supported end-to-end by Respect and its legal partners, including:
- Assigning a dedicated processing consultant
- Document attestation and legal translation
- Form signing at the client’s preferred location
- Submission and receipt of all documents through Respect agents / DHL
- Appointment of licensed Maltese lawyers and agents
- Assistance in fulfilling the real estate requirement
- Accompanying applicants for biometric fingerprinting
- Ongoing updates on Maltese laws and market news
- Post-approval support
- Lawyers available throughout the process
Steps and Procedures
| Time Frame | Procedures | Payments |
| Start the application | Sign the service agreement with Respect | €5,000 (50% of the professional fees) |
| 1st–2nd month | • Submit the required information and documents • Preparation and review of the application file • Submission of the application to the competent Maltese authorities | €15,000 Government Admin Deposit |
| 3rd- 9th month | Due diligence is conducted on the applicant • Issuance of Approval in Principle upon successful due diligence | €82,000 Remaining Balance of Government Admin and The Contribution Fees + €2,000 Donation + Real Estate/Property Payment (Rental or purchase) |
| 3rd–9th month | Completion of real estate requirement (Rental or Purchase) • Obtaining health insurance coverage in accordance with the program requirements • Fulfilment of all remaining program requirements | €5,000 50% of the professional fees |
| 10th–12th month | The applicant must travel to Malta to provide biometric data after their application is approved. • Issuance of a residence certificate. • The lawyer collects the residence card and sends it by mail to the country where the applicant resides. |
Notes
- Temporary residence card can be issued within 1 month
- Permanent residence certificate is issued after completion of all conditions
