YOUR GATEWAY TO EUROPE IN THE HEARTOF THE MEDITARRANEAN
Malta is an increasingly popular destination for non-EU citizens seeking a new home in Europe. The enchanting Mediterranean archipelago offers various pathways for relocation through diverse residency and citizenship options that cater to different needs and preferences. Whether through investment, employment, or retirement, non-EU citizens can enjoy the numerous benefits of living in Malta, making it an ideal destination for a fresh start.
Residency Options
Malta offers several residency programs targeted at non-EU nationals.
Among them, the Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) – also known as the Malta Golden Visa – provides a permanent residency certificate for life through a one-time investment, while the Global Residency Programme (GRP) offers a renewable 1-year visa. Both offer considerable advantages such as visa-free Schengen travel benefits and special tax advantages.
Other targeted programs exist, including The Malta Retirement Programme (MRP) – which caters to retirees receiving a pension, with at least 75% of their income derived from their pension – or the Malta Nomad Residence Permit (MNRP) -a renewable 1-year visa for digital nomads who work for companies or clients outside Malta, without entitlement to social benefits or citizenship. Lastly, the Malta Startup Residence Programme (MSRP) is designed for non-EU startup founders and their core team, requiring a minimum capital investment and offering a 3-year residence permit, renewable under certain conditions but not leading to citizenship.
Since none of the Malta residency options automatically lead to citizenship, non-EU nationals who wish to obtain a Maltese passport are advised to apply under the Malta Naturalisation for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment Regulations, which is Malta’s official investment citizenship program.
Malta Citizenship for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment
In order welcome international investors and families with a long-term vision, Malta offers citizenship by naturalization for exceptional services through direct investment, as outlined by national law and specific regulations. This initiative ensures credibility and prestige through rigorous due diligence processes. Applicants must also meet residence requirements, property conditions, and make the required financial contributions.
A recently revised regime for this scheme features a two-stage application process:
- Eligibility Application: The applicant undergoes a stringent due diligence process. Upon successful completion, the Minister responsible for citizenship matters authorizes the applicant to proceed with the naturalization application.
- Naturalization Application: Once authorized, the applicant must fulfill the property and financial requirements within four months. The naturalization process must be completed within six months from the communication of authorization.
To be eligible for naturalization, applicants must satisfy one of the following residence conditions:
- A one-year residence condition with a contribution fee of €750,000.
- A three-year residence condition with a contribution fee of €600,000.
Additionally, applicants are required to either:
- Purchase immovable residential property in Malta valued at no less than €700,000, or
- Lease residential immovable property in Malta for a minimum annual rent of €16,000.
Before the certificate of naturalization is issued, applicants must also donate a minimum of €10,000 to a registered philanthropic, cultural, sport, scientific, animal welfare, or artistic non-governmental organization or society.
The benefits of acquiring Maltese citizenship are substantial. Citizens enjoy visa-free travel to over 180 countries, including the EU, USA, and Canada. They also gain the right to live, work, and study in any EU country, offering unparalleled mobility and opportunities.
Community Malta Agency was established for the purpose of amalgamating all processes related to citizenship into a one-stop-shop. The centralisation of such functions serves to be conducive to better efficiency and effectiveness of the management of the relative processes.