Good to know: Malta runs a licensed-agent system with robust due diligence.
The Malta Permanent Residency Programme (MPRP) is a fast, document-heavy PR route with typical decisions in ~4–6 months.
Other options (GRP tax residency, Nomad, Startup, KEI/EU Blue Card, family and student routes) serve different profiles and objectives.
Property (buy or rent) + contributions & due diligence
The flagship PR route handled by Residency Malta Agency. Combines a qualifying property commitment with government contributions,
fees and strong AML checks. Family can be included in one file.
- Decision typically in ~4–6 months
- Spouse/partner, children & dependent ascendants eligible
- 5-year card, renewable while conditions remain in force
- Company shareholding/directorship allowed; local employment requires a work permit
- Schengen access as part of Malta’s EU/Schengen membership
Qualifying property + minimum tax commitment
A tax-resident track with a flat rate on foreign-sourced remitted income. Requires qualifying rent/purchase, health insurance, and fit-and-proper checks.
- Designed for high-net-worth individuals
- Residence formalities + annual minimum tax
- Family members can be included
- Pairs with remittance-basis planning
- Does not itself grant PR status
~€2,700+ monthly income (remote work)
For remote employees, contractors, or founders serving non-Maltese clients. Private health insurance required; local employment not permitted.
- 1-year permit; renewable while conditions continue
- Family inclusion available (higher income needed)
- Residence vs. tax residency depends on presence
- Simple, document-led process
- Good fit for location-independent professionals
From ~€25k funding + innovation criteria
Residence for innovative founders building in Malta. Requires a credible plan, capital, and potential for jobs/impact. Work authorized in your own company.
- Multi-year residence with renewals
- Family members can join
- Incorporation & compliance required
- Access to Malta’s EU market base
- Can support long-term residence planning
Employer contract + salary threshold
Fast-track employment routes for key employees and EU Blue Card holders. Requires recognized qualifications and a contract meeting the salary floor.
- Combined work & residence authorization
- Family reunification eligible
- EU mobility benefits under the Blue Card
- Renewable while employed
- Counts toward long-term residence
Employer sponsorship + job offer
Classic employment route via a Maltese employer. Processing depends on role scarcity, qualifications, and compliance with labour rules.
- Residence linked to your employer
- Renewable while employed
- Family reunion typically possible
- Pathway to long-term residence
- Processing time varies
Dependence proof & sponsor’s status
For dependents of lawful residents/citizens. Requires evidence of relationship, accommodation, and sufficient means.
- Spouse/partner, minor children; ascendants in some cases
- Linked to sponsor’s permit validity
- Healthcare & education access
- Document legalisation/translation often needed
- Counts toward long-term residence
University admission + funds
Residence for degree studies at recognized Maltese institutions. Proof of admission, means, and insurance required; limited work rights may apply.
- Permit valid for study duration
- Work rights subject to conditions
- Switch to employment or other routes later
- Family accompaniment depends on program
- Contributes to residence history
Naturalisation after residence; merit-based routes
Citizenship paths focus on residence and integration over time, with rigorous due diligence. Timelines depend on presence, compliance, and eligibility.
- Long-term residence leads to eligibility
- Strong due diligence standards
- Dual citizenship permitted under Maltese law
- Professional guidance recommended
- Separate from PR and tax residency tracks
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