Whether you’re seeking a European base for your business and family, a secure and attractive lifestyle destination, or a flexible second residence for global mobility, Malta offers a diverse and well-regulated options of residency programmes.
Here we outline the main routes available for securing residence in Malta whether you’re an EU citizen looking to retire in the Mediterranean or a third-country national seeking permanent EU residency through investment, work, or remote employment.
Why Move to Malta?
Malta combines the benefits of living in a peaceful, sunny Mediterranean island with the economic and political advantages of being a full EU member state, Schengen Area country, and Commonwealth nation.
It is a jurisdiction known for its stable economy, pro-business policies, and a high standard of living. The country consistently ranks among the safest places to live in Europe and offers a warm, welcoming culture to foreigners — particularly English speakers.
Here are some of the key reasons why individuals and families choose to relocate to Malta:
Excellent Climate
Malta enjoys over 300 days of sunshine per year, making it one of the sunniest countries in Europe. Winters are mild and summers are long and warm — perfect for those seeking an outdoor lifestyle.
English-Speaking Country
English is an official language, widely spoken across government, business, healthcare, and education. This makes integration easy for newcomers and ensures no language barrier when accessing essential services.
World-Class Healthcare
Malta has a strong public healthcare system and several private hospitals and clinics. The country regularly scores high in global healthcare rankings, and many medical professionals are trained in the UK and EU.
Quality Education
Malta offers reputable English-speaking international schools and a well-established tertiary education system. Many expat families choose Malta because of the safe environment and access to high-quality education for their children.
Strategic Location
Located between Europe and North Africa, Malta offers excellent connectivity to major cities. The Malta International Airport is a hub for regional and international flights, making it ideal for frequent travellers.
Safety & Stability
Malta is ranked among the safest countries in Europe with low crime rates and a stable political system. It is also one of the few countries in Europe that remained economically resilient throughout recent global disruptions.
Favourable Tax Environment
For residents who are not domiciled in Malta, the country applies the remittance basis of taxation, meaning foreign income is only taxed if it is brought into Malta. This makes it attractive for private clients and international families with global income.
Residency Routes for EU, EEA, and Swiss Nationals
Ordinary Residence Programme
EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals may reside in Malta with through the Ordinary Residence Programme, which requires applicants to be:
- Employed or self-employed in Malta, and
- Financially self-sufficient
Applicants must have health insurance and accommodation (rent or buy), and show that they have been residing in Malta for at least 3 months. Typically applicants under this programme, receive their residence card within 8 to 10 weeks.
The Residence Programme (TRP)
The TRP is a tax residence programme for EU/EEA/Swiss nationals offering:
- A flat 15% tax rate on foreign income remitted to Malta
- No tax on foreign income not remitted
- Eligibility to apply for a tax residence certificate
Requirements:
- €6,000 government application fee
- Purchase or rental of qualifying property in Malta
- Minimum €15,000 annual tax
- Cannot spend more than 183 days in another country in a calendar year
Applications must be submitted through an Authorised Registered Mandatory (ARM), such as our firm (ARM 04407).
Residency Routes for Non-EU Nationals
Malta offers several attractive options for third-country nationals (non-EU/EEA/Swiss) to establish legal residence, depending on their lifestyle and financial goals.
Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP)
The Malta Permanent Residence Programme grants lifetime permanent residence to non-EU nationals and their family members — including spouses, children, parents, and grandparents — through a qualifying investment.
Key Requirements:
- €500,000 in capital assets, with at least €150,000 in financial assets
- Purchase or rental of qualifying real estate
- Government contribution: €80,000 (if purchasing) or €110,000 (if renting)
- €2,000 donation to a Maltese-registered NGO
- Clean criminal record & comprehensive background check
Benefits:
- Permanent residence from day one
- Visa-free travel in the Schengen Zone (90/180 rule)
- No physical stay requirement
- Ability to include up to four generations in one application
- Fast-track processing and high approval rates
The MPRP is a regulated programme, and applications must be submitted through a Licensed Agent. Our firm is licensed under AKM-ACCA.
Malta Global Residence Programme (GRP)
The Malta Global Residence Programme is a tax residency option for third-country nationals seeking to benefit from Malta’s remittance-based tax system.
Benefits:
- Flat 15% tax on foreign income remitted to Malta
- No tax on foreign income kept abroad
- Access to residence card and travel within Schengen
Main Criteria:
- Minimum €15,000 annual tax
- €6,000 application fee
- Property purchase or long-term rental
- Cannot spend more than 183 days per year in another country
Applications must be submitted through an ARM, and our firm holds Licence ARM 04407.
Nomad Residence Permit (NRP)
The Nomad Residence Permit is ideal for remote workers and digital entrepreneurs who wish to live in Malta while working for foreign clients or companies.
Applicants must prove they can work remotely, using telecoms. Applicants must also be third country nationals (non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss nationals).
In addition, applicants must prove they fall under any one of the following three categories:
- Work for an employer registered in a foreign country and have a contract of work;
- Conduct business activities for a company registered in a foreign country and of which the applicant is a partner/shareholder; or
- Offer freelance or consulting services to clients whose permanent establishments are in a foreign country, and with whom the applicant has contracts.
Note: Persons contracted by a foreign company and giving services to the company’s Maltese subsidiary are not eligible for the Nomad Residence Permit.
Moreover, an applicant must have a minimum gross yearly income of €42,000.
Malta Single Permit (Work Permit)
Foreign nationals with confirmed employment in Malta may apply for a Single Permit, which combines residence and work authorisation.
- Linked to a specific job and employer
- Valid for one year, renewable
- Typically applied for by the employer on the applicant’s behalf
How We Can Help
As a Licensed Agent (AKM-ACCA) and Authorised Registered Mandatory (ARM 04407), our firm is approved to act on your behalf for regulated residency applications in Malta.
Our multidisciplinary team of lawyers and immigration advisors provides end-to-end assistance, including:
- Eligibility assessments and personalised guidance
- Preparation and submission of your application
- Property advisory and tax planning
- Liaison with Maltese authorities
- Support for relocation, banking, and family needs