The Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) is a residence-by-investment programme that grants permanent residency to third-country nationals (non-EU, non-EEA, non-Swiss) through a combination of property investment, government contribution, administration fee, and charitable donation. Established under Subsidiary Legislation 217.26 and administered by the Residency Malta Agency, the programme provides the right to live indefinitely in Malta and visa-free travel within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days per 180-day period.
The permanent residence certificate is lifelong and does not require renewal. The biometric residence card is valid for 5 years and must be renewed. The Residency Malta Agency conducts annual compliance checks during the first 5 years to confirm continued property ownership and asset maintenance. There is no minimum physical presence requirement to maintain permanent residency.
Spouses or registered partners (including same-sex partners) and minor children are included at no additional administration fee. Unmarried children aged 18-29 who are principally dependent on the applicant may be included for €7,500 each. Dependent parents and grandparents of either spouse may be included for €7,500 each. The €37,000 government contribution covers the whole family unit, and dependants may also be added after the certificate is issued. All dependants undergo the same four-tier due diligence process.
The MPRP does not automatically establish tax residency. Tax residency requires physical presence exceeding 183 days per year. Non-domiciled residents are taxed on a remittance basis, with only Malta-source income and foreign income remitted to Malta taxed. Foreign capital gains are exempt regardless of remittance. MPRP holders may additionally apply for the Global Residence Programme for a flat 15% tax rate on remitted foreign income.
Applications must be submitted through a Licensed Agent authorised by the Residency Malta Agency. The process begins with initial KYC checks and documentation, followed by a four-tier due diligence process typically taking 3-6 months. Upon passing due diligence, a Letter of Approval in Principle is issued. The remaining €45,000 administration fee must be paid within 2 months, and the qualifying investments (property, €37,000 contribution, health insurance, and €2,000 donation) must be completed within 8 months. All applicants must travel to Malta for biometric data capture. Under 2025 reforms, a renewable one-year temporary residence permit may be obtained on application submission, allowing families to relocate while the full application is processed. Total timeline is approximately 6-12 months.