Malta’s residency-by-investment programme: a clear path to permanent residency

With streamlined processes and updated financial criteria, Malta’s Permanent Residence Programme offers permanent residency from day one, unmatched benefits, and a secure future in Europe

Residency-by-investment options have long offered a route to stability, but many require investors to wait years before securing permanent status, navigating complex renewal processes and shifting regulations along the way. Malta’s residency-by-investment programme stands out by granting permanent residency from day one. It’s a streamlined, dependable path for those looking to establish a base in a stable and well-connected European country.

Successful applicants can enjoy long-term residency in Malta, visa-free travel across the 27 Schengen countries for 90 out of 180 days, access to Malta’s highly regarded education system, and the ability to include up to four generations in a single application. Malta has recently updated the programme to better reflect current market and economic conditions, introducing revised financial thresholds and an even more streamlined process, it’s an ideal time to secure a future in the Mediterranean’s most business-friendly nation.

Despite covering just 316 square kilometres, the island has positioned itself as a key financial and business hub. With a population of just 520,000, it has a thriving economy with a GDP of €17.2 billion and a per capita income of around €33,000 – outpacing several larger EU economies.

Its strategic location, situated 93 kilometres south of Sicily and 288 kilometres north of Libya, makes it a gateway between Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. Malta is a Schengen Zone member and an EU country since 2004, offering investors a foothold in one of the world’s largest economic blocs. The country’s strong financial services sector, along with industries such as iGaming, fintech, maritime trade, aviation and hospitality, has also made it an attractive destination for investors looking for stability and business growth opportunities.

Beyond its economic strength, Malta is a magnet for those seeking quality of life. The country enjoys over 300 days of sunshine per year, boasts a Mediterranean climate, and offers a low crime rate, reputable healthcare, and a high standard of living. The capital city, Valletta, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, while Malta is home to two other UNESCO-listed sites, too. Its English-speaking population and historical ties to the UK and the Commonwealth make it an easy transition for foreign investors looking for a European base.

The Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) has been a leading investment migration option for years, but the government has now updated its financial criteria, standardised property thresholds, and streamlined processing to ensure it remains competitive and transparent.

Investors now have two straightforward financial options to qualify for the MPRP. They can either show €500,000 in total assets, with at least €150,000 in liquid financial assets, or demonstrate €650,000 in total assets, with €75,000 in liquid assets.

Previously, property investment requirements varied depending on location, but Malta has now introduced a nationwide standard, making the process clearer and more consistent. Those choosing to buy a home must invest at least €375,000, while those opting to rent will need a minimum annual lease of €14,000, whether in Malta or Gozo.

Alongside these financial requirements, there is a €50,000 application fee, with €15,000 due upon submission and the remaining €35,000 payable within two months of approval. Adding family members to an application is also straightforward, with an additional €10,000 fee per dependant, covering spouses, children, parents, and even grandparents.

Applicants also contribute to the Maltese government as part of the process. Those who purchase a property contribute €30,000, while those who rent contribute €60,000. Both amounts are payable within eight months of receiving approval.

“In order to continue giving this value and maintaining the MPRP’s unique position in the residency-by-investment landscape as a robust and reputable programme, the Programme’s eligibility criteria and investment requirements are being revised to reflect current economic and market trends,” Jonathan Cardona, CEO of Residency Malta Agency, told The European.

“In addition to this, the Agency has also been working on improving internal processes to reduce the processing timelines significantly and make it more attractive to prospective applicants, without compromising on our robust multi-tier due diligence checks that safeguard our Programme’s reputation.”

The MPRP offers immediate permanent residency—bypassing the lengthy and uncertain renewal processes typical of other routes. “Residency Malta remains committed to offering the best value propositions, and maintaining rigorous due diligence standards, leading by example in this area, while striving for service excellence,” says Cardona.

“Our aim is to remain the foremost Agency in the industry, enjoying our current unique position and stellar reputation.”

Unlike other programmes, Malta remains one of the last investment residency options that offer immediate permanent status and an option to lease. According to Residency Malta, it provides a secure, structured pathway for investors looking to establish a long-term presence in Europe without the uncertainty of periodic renewals.

“For those seeking a European base, Malta’s revised MPRP remains one of the most straightforward, secure, and valuable residency-by-investment options available today,” he added.

Malta at a Glance: Key Facts

Location & Size: A densely populated island nation (520,000 people, 316 km²) in the Mediterranean, 93 km south of Sicily, 288 km north of Libya, and a strategic gateway between Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.

Political & Economic Status: A democratic republic, a Commonwealth and EU member (since 2004), part of the Schengen Zone (since 2007), with a €17.2 billion GDP driven by finance, iGaming, maritime trade, tourism, and blockchain.

Language, Currency & Business: Maltese and English are official languages; Euro (€) since 2008; Europe’s most competitive corporate tax system, with an effective tax rate as low as 5% for international businesses.

Climate & Lifestyle: A Mediterranean climate with 300+ days of sunshine per year, a low crime rate, direct flights to 100+ destinations, and one of Europe’s largest shipping registries.

Culture & Infrastructure: Capital Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to three UNESCO sites, and the University of Malta (founded in 1592), one of the Mediterranean’s oldest universities.

Further information
www.residencymalta.gov.mt