Malta Permanent Residence Visa Programme

What is Malta Permanent Residence Visa Programme?

The Malta Permanent Residence Visa Programme offers numerous benefits for non-Maltese individuals seeking European residency. By participating in this program, residents gain the right to reside indefinitely in Malta, an EU country, with visa-free access across Europe’s Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. The investment is required only for the first five years, with no mandatory residence requirement. Additionally, the program includes family members, making it an attractive option for those looking to secure a stable and strategically located European residence.

Table of Content

  1. What is Malta Residence Visa Programme ?
  2. What is the eligibility criteria of the Malta Permanent Residence Visa Program ?
  3. Procedure and Time Frame for the Malta Permanent Residence Visa Programme
  4. What are the benefits of the Malta Permanent Residence Visa Programme ?
  5. Some information and fun facts about Malta with Immigrans Global
  6. What are the Limitations Of the Malta Permanent Residence Visa Program ?
  7. 10 FAQs on Malta Permanent Residence Visa Programme

Eligibility Criteria of the Malta Permanent
Residence Visa Programme

The Malta Permanent Residence Visa Programme has specific eligibility criteria to ensure that applicants meet the financial and legal requirements. Here are the detailed points:

  • Minimum Age Requirement: The main applicant must be at least 18 years old at the time of application, ensuring legal adulthood.
  • Financial Requirements: Applicants must demonstrate possession of a minimum capital of EUR 500,000, of which at least EUR 150,000 must be held in financial assets. This ensures that applicants have sufficient financial stability.
  • Property Investment: Applicants have two options for property investment:
    • Purchase: Buy property valued at a minimum of EUR 350,000. If the property is located in South Malta or Gozo, the property value is reduced to EUR 300,000.
    • Lease: Rent property with a minimum annual lease of EUR 12,000. If the property is located in South Malta or Gozo, the annual lease rental is reduced to EUR 10,000 per year. The lease or purchase must be maintained for at least five years.
  • Economic Contribution: Applicants must contribute financially to the Maltese economy:
    • Purchase Option: A contribution of EUR 28,000 is required if the applicant purchases a property.
    • Lease Option: A higher contribution of EUR 58,000 is required if the applicant leases a property.
  • Donation to NGO: A mandatory donation of EUR 2,000 to a registered non-governmental organization in Malta is required, reflecting a commitment to the community.
  • Administrative Fee: A non-refundable administration fee of EUR 40,000 must be paid, which covers the processing and administrative costs associated with the application.

These criteria ensure that applicants are financially capable and committed to contributing to Malta’s economy and society, maintaining the integrity and sustainability of the Malta Permanent Residence Visa Programme.

Procedure and Time Frame for the Malta
Permanent Residence Visa Programme

The Malta Permanent Residence Visa Programme has a structured and efficient application process designed to be straightforward and transparent. Here are the detailed steps and time frame:

  1. Initial Consultation: Potential applicants begin by consulting Immigrans Global, to understand the requirements and gather necessary documentation.
  2. Document Preparation: Applicants must prepare and submit all required documents, including proof of age, financial statements showing the required capital, and documentation related to the property investment (either purchase or lease agreement). This stage also includes obtaining a police clearance certificate to ensure the applicant has no criminal record.
  3. Submission to Residency Malta Agency: The complete application, along with the non-refundable administration fee of EUR 40,000, is submitted to the Residency Malta Agency. This agency is the government body responsible for processing and approving applications.
  4. Due Diligence Checks: The Residency Malta Agency conducts rigorous due diligence checks to verify the authenticity of the information provided and ensure the applicant meets all eligibility criteria. This process ensures the integrity and security of the program.
  5. Approval in Principle: If the application passes the due diligence stage, the applicant receives an approval in principle. This is a provisional approval pending the completion of the qualifying investments.
  6. Completion of Investments: Upon receiving approval in principle, the applicant must complete the required property investment (purchase or lease), pay the economic contribution, and make the donation to a non-governmental organization. These steps must be completed within a stipulated time frame, typically within four months of receiving approval in principle.
  7. Issuance of Residence Certificate: Once all investments and contributions are verified, the Residency Malta Agency issues a Maltese residence certificate to the successful applicant. This certificate acts as a residence permit, allowing the holder and their included family members to reside in Malta and enjoy the associated benefits.
  8. Time Frame: The entire process, from initial consultation to the issuance of the residence certificate, typically takes between four to six months, depending on the completeness of the application and the efficiency of document submission and verification.

This streamlined procedure ensures a clear path to obtaining Maltese residency, making the Malta Permanent Residence Programme accessible and attractive to eligible applicants.

Benefits of the Malta Permanent Residence Visa Programme

The Malta Permanent Residence Visa Programme offers a range of attractive benefits for non-Maltese individuals seeking European residency. Here are the key advantages:

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• Residence in an EU Country

  • Malta, an EU member state, provides its residents with access to the benefits and protections of EU membership.

• Visa-Free Travel

Residents can travel visa-free within Europe’s Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This facilitates ease of movement across 26 European countries, ideal for business and leisure.

• Indefinite Right to Reside

  • The program grants the right to reside indefinitely in Malta, offering long-term stability and security for residents and their families.

• Limited Investment Duration

  • The required investment is only for the first five years, making it a more accessible option compared to other programs that may require ongoing financial commitments.

• No Mandatory Residence Requirement

  • There is no obligation to physically reside in Malta, providing flexibility for those who need to travel frequently or maintain residences in other countries.

• Family Inclusion

The program includes the main applicant’s spouse, children, and parents or grandparents under certain conditions, offering a comprehensive solution for family migration.

• Stable Political Climate

Malta boasts a stable political environment, which ensures a secure living condition and favorable business environment.

• Strategic Location

  • Malta’s strategic location with excellent air links makes it a convenient hub for international travel, especially for those with business interests in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.

• High Quality of Life

  • Malta offers a high standard of living, with excellent healthcare, education, and recreational facilities, along with a rich cultural heritage and pleasant Mediterranean climate.

Some Info and Fun Facts About Malta

Malta, a small island nation in the central Mediterranean, has its capital in Valletta. With a population of approximately 514,564 people, Malta is densely populated. The official languages are Maltese and English, reflecting its rich cultural heritage and historical ties. The currency used is the Euro (EUR), integrating Malta into the European Union’s economic framework. Malta boasts a GDP per capita of around $30,000, indicating a relatively high standard of living and a robust economy driven by tourism, financial services, and technology sectors.

10 Fun Facts About Malta

  1. Historical Crossroads: Malta has been inhabited since around 5900 BC and has been ruled by various powers, including the Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, Normans, Knights of St. John, French, and British, reflecting a rich tapestry of cultural influences.
  2. UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Malta is home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the capital city Valletta, the Megalithic Temples (some of the oldest free-standing structures in the world), and the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, an underground prehistoric burial site.
  3. Film Location: Malta has been a popular filming location for numerous blockbuster movies and TV series, including “Gladiator,” “Troy,” “Game of Thrones,” and “Jurassic World: Dominion,” thanks to its scenic landscapes and historical sites.
  4. Tiny Yet Densely Populated: Despite its small size, Malta is one of the most densely populated countries in the world, with a population density of around 1,500 people per square kilometer.
  5. Language Diversity: Malta has two official languages: Maltese, a unique Semitic language with Latin influences, and English. Many Maltese people are also fluent in Italian, reflecting the island’s historical ties with Italy.
  6. Festive Spirit: Malta is known for its numerous village festas (festivals), which celebrate the feast days of patron saints with fireworks, parades, music, and food, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere throughout the year.
  7. Colorful Balconies: Maltese towns and villages are characterized by traditional wooden balconies, often painted in bright colors, which add charm and color to the island’s architecture.
  8. Strategic Location: Located in the central Mediterranean, Malta’s strategic position has made it a crucial naval base throughout history, influencing various military and trade activities in the region.
  9. Diving Paradise: Malta is a top destination for diving enthusiasts, offering crystal-clear waters, underwater caves, shipwrecks, and diverse marine life, making it one of the best diving spots in Europe.
  10. World War II Heroism: Malta played a significant role during World War II, withstanding heavy bombing by Axis forces. In recognition of their bravery, the entire Maltese population was awarded the George Cross by King George VI in 1942, which is still depicted on the Maltese national flag.

Limitations of Malta Permanent
Residence Visa Program

While the Malta Permanent Residence Visa Programme offers numerous benefits, it also comes with certain limitations that potential applicants should consider:

  1. Significant Financial Commitment: The programme requires a substantial financial investment, including property purchase or lease, economic contributions, and fees, which may be prohibitive for some individuals.
  2. Non-Refundable Fees: The administration fee of EUR 40,000 is non-refundable, regardless of the application’s outcome, posing a financial risk to applicants.
  3. Property Market Risks: The requirement to invest in Maltese real estate ties applicants to the fluctuations and risks of the local property market, which could affect the value of their investment over time.
  4. Ongoing Financial Obligations: While the primary investment is required only for the first five years, maintaining the property (whether owned or leased) and meeting other financial obligations can be a long-term commitment.
  5. No Path to Citizenship: The Malta Permanent Residence Visa Programme does not provide a direct path to citizenship. Applicants seeking citizenship must consider other routes, which may have additional requirements and longer time frames.
  6. Limited Physical Presence: Although there is no mandatory residence requirement, spending little time in Malta may limit one’s integration into Maltese society and understanding of local culture and business opportunities.
  7. Stringent Due Diligence: The rigorous due diligence process, while ensuring the integrity of the programme, can be time-consuming and may lead to rejection of applicants who do not meet all the stringent criteria.
  8. Market Saturation: As the programme becomes more popular, the influx of foreign investors could lead to increased property prices and market saturation, potentially affecting the returns on property investments.
  9. Regulatory Changes: Immigration and investment policies can change over time. Future regulatory adjustments may alter the benefits, costs, or requirements of the programme, impacting current and prospective applicants.
  10. Geopolitical Factors: Malta’s position within the EU and its political climate can be influenced by broader geopolitical factors, such as changes in EU policies or international relations, which could affect the stability and attractiveness of the residence programme.

Understanding these limitations is crucial for potential applicants to make informed decisions about pursuing residence in Malta through this programme.

10 FAQs on Malta Permanent
Residence Visa Programme

1. What are the key benefits of the Malta Permanent Residence Visa Programme?

o The key benefits include the right to reside indefinitely in Malta, visa-free travel within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in a 180-day period, family inclusion, and a stable, strategic location within the EU.

2. What is the minimum financial requirement to qualify for the Malta Permanent Residence Visa Programme?

o Applicants must possess a minimum capital of EUR 500,000, with at least EUR 150,000 in financial assets, and make the necessary property investment and economic contributions.

3. Can I obtain citizenship through the Malta Permanent Residence Visa Programme?

o No, the programme does not provide a direct path to citizenship. Applicants seeking citizenship must explore other routes, which have additional requirements and longer time frames.

4. What are the property investment options for the Malta Permanent Residence Visa Programme?

o Applicants can either purchase property valued at a minimum of EUR 350,000 (EUR 300,000 in South Malta or Gozo) or lease property with a minimum annual rent of EUR 12,000 (EUR 10,000 in South Malta or Gozo) for at least five years.

5. Are there any non-refundable fees associated with the application?

o Yes, there is a non-refundable administration fee of EUR 40,000, which covers the processing and administrative costs of the application.

6. Is there a mandatory residence requirement in Malta under this programme?

o No, there is no mandatory residence requirement, providing flexibility for applicants who need to travel frequently or maintain residences in other countries.

7. What is the process for applying to the Malta Permanent Residence Visa Programme?

o The process includes an initial consultation, document preparation, submission to the Residency Malta Agency, due diligence checks, approval in principle, completion of investments, and issuance of a residence certificate.

8. How long does the application process take?

o The entire process typically takes between four to six months, depending on the completeness of the application and the efficiency of document submission and verification.

9. What are the ongoing financial obligations after the initial investment?

o Applicants must maintain their property investment (purchase or lease) and meet other financial obligations for at least five years. Additionally, they must continue to meet the financial stability requirements.

10. What are the potential risks and limitations of the Malta Permanent Residence Visa Programme?

o Potential risks and limitations include significant financial commitments, non-refundable fees, property market risks, lack of a direct path to citizenship, stringent due diligence, market saturation, regulatory changes, and geopolitical factors.

These FAQs provide a comprehensive overview of the Malta Permanent Residence Programme, helping potential applicants make informed decisions.