The Golden Visa Malta requirements are designed to attract investors seeking residency in one of Europe’s most beautiful and economically stable countries. Malta’s residency-by-investment program, known as the Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP), offers a unique opportunity to gain permanent residency.
Additionally, the government grants this status in exchange for a significant investment in the country. Consequently, whether you aim to invest in property, make a government contribution, or enjoy EU benefits, understanding the requirements is essential. Moreover, this guide provides a complete overview of the qualifications for this prestigious program.
What is the Golden Visa Malta?
The Golden Visa Malta is a residency program that allows non-EU nationals to obtain permanent residency through a qualifying investment. Additionally, this visa grants residency for the applicant and their family members.
Consequently, it provides a gateway to live, work, and travel within the EU and Schengen Area. Moreover, it’s an attractive option for high-net-worth individuals seeking a strong second passport, favorable tax environment, and access to world-class healthcare and education.
Key Golden Visa Malta Requirements
To qualify for the Golden Visa Malta, applicants must meet a range of specific requirements. Additionally, these requirements ensure that applicants are financially capable and will contribute positively to the country.
Consequently, the program maintains high standards for residency candidates. Moreover, this process guarantees that only qualified individuals benefit from the program’s advantages. Below is a breakdown of the main Golden Visa Malta requirements for 2025:
Financial Capacity and Investment
The core of the Golden Visa Malta application is the financial investment. Applicants must demonstrate their ability to make significant investments in the country, either through property purchases, government contributions, or charitable donations. The Golden Visa Malta requirements for financial investments are as follows:
- Property Investment: Applicants must either purchase or rent a property in Malta or Gozo. The minimum investment for purchasing property is €375,000, while the minimum annual lease requirement is €14,000.
- Government Contribution: Applicants must contribute to the Maltese government. The amount varies depending on whether they purchase or lease property. If purchasing, the contribution is €30,000, while leasing requires a €60,000 contribution.
- Charitable Donation: You must donate an additional €2,000 to a registered local charity, supporting causes like culture, sports, or social welfare.
Golden Visa Malta Requirements: Family Members
One of the main benefits of the Golden Visa Malta is that it allows applicants to include their family members in the application. Family members who can be included under the Golden Visa Malta requirements are:
- Spouse: The applicant’s spouse or partner can apply for residency as well.
- Children: Dependent children under the age of 18 can be included in the application. In some cases, the applicant can also include financially dependent children aged 18-26.
- Parents and Grandparents: The applicant can add dependent parents or grandparents if they rely on them financially.
Each dependent increases the cost of the Golden Visa Malta by €10,000 in government contributions.
Golden Visa Malta Requirements: Clean Criminal Record
As part of the Golden Visa Malta requirements, applicants must have a clean criminal record. Additionally, they must submit a police certificate from their country of origin and any country they’ve lived in over the past ten years.
Consequently, this ensures that applicants meet the program’s standards of good character. Moreover, it aligns with the requirements of most residency-by-investment programs worldwide.
Health Insurance
Applicants must provide proof of valid health insurance that covers them while residing in Malta. Additionally, this ensures access to Malta’s high-quality healthcare system if needed. Consequently, it safeguards both the applicant and the country’s healthcare resources. Moreover, this requirement highlights the importance of health security for all residents.
Additional Golden Visa Malta Requirements
Apart from the basic investment requirements, the Golden Visa Malta also involves some additional conditions that applicants must fulfill:
- Due Diligence: A thorough background check is required. It ensures applicants meet necessary financial and legal requirements. The due diligence process can take several weeks. Additionally, it depends on the complexity of the applicant’s financial history. Similarly, legal history also affects the timeline.
- Biometric Data: Once the application is approved, applicants must travel to Malta. Additionally, they need to provide biometric data. This includes fingerprints and photographs. Moreover, these are used for identity verification. Furthermore, this step ensures the accuracy of personal records.
- Property Retention: If you purchase property for the Golden Visa Malta, you must retain it for five years. Additionally, leasing is another option. Moreover, the lease must also remain in place for at least five years. Furthermore, both options require a long-term commitment. Therefore, careful consideration is necessary before deciding.
- Residency Obligation: Applicants must spend at least 12 months in Malta during the first five years. Additionally, this requirement ensures a legitimate connection with the country. Moreover, it demonstrates commitment to residing in Malta. Furthermore, this period helps applicants integrate into the local community. Therefore, it is a crucial part of the process.
Advantages of the Malta Golden Visa
Once you meet the Golden Visa Malta requirements, you will gain access to numerous benefits. Some of the advantages of the Malta Golden Visa include:
- Visa-Free Travel: Holders of the Golden Visa Malta enjoy unrestricted travel across the EU and Schengen Area countries, allowing easy access to over 25 European countries.
- Permanent Residency: The Golden Visa Malta grants applicants and their families permanent residency status, allowing them to live, work, and study in Malta indefinitely.
- High Quality of Life: Malta offers excellent healthcare, a low crime rate, and beautiful landscapes, making it an attractive place to settle.
- Tax Incentives: Malta offers favorable tax rates for residents, especially for those with high net worth, making it an appealing destination for investors.
- Strong Economy: As a member of the European Union, Malta has a stable economy and offers a secure environment for businesses and families alike.
- Access to Education: Malta offers a high standard of education, and Golden Visa holders can access both local and international schools for their children.
How to Apply for the Malta Golden Visa
The application process for the Golden Visa Malta involves several steps. First, applicants need to choose their preferred investment option, whether purchasing property or leasing. Then, they must submit their application to the Residency Malta Agency, along with all necessary documents, including proof of investment, health insurance, and a clean criminal record.
After authorities review and approve the application, applicants must complete due diligence checks and provide biometric data. Once they complete all steps, they will receive residency cards, allowing them to live in Malta and enjoy all its benefits.
Conclusion
The Golden Visa Malta requirements ensure applicants are financially capable and law-abiding. Additionally, they must show commitment to living in Malta. Moreover, by meeting investment, family, and legal requirements, applicants gain permanent residency. Furthermore, this allows them to enjoy benefits in one of Europe’s most desirable countries.
Therefore, the process is both thorough and rewarding. Whether you are seeking visa-free travel, a stable economy, or a high-quality lifestyle, the Malta Golden Visa offers an attractive pathway for international investors and their families.
FAQ
What are the main requirements for the Golden Visa Malta?
The Golden Visa Malta requirements include making a property investment. Additionally, applicants must contribute to the government. Moreover, applicants must also make a donation to a charity. Furthermore, applicants must have a clean criminal record. Similarly, valid health insurance is mandatory.
Can I include my family members in the Malta Golden Visa application?
You can include your spouse, children, and dependent parents or grandparents in the application. Additionally, each dependent increases the government contribution. Moreover, the additional fee is €10,000 per person.
How much do I need to invest in property for the Golden Visa Malta?
The minimum property investment for purchasing property is €375,000. Alternatively, applicants can choose to lease a property for €14,000 annually. This flexibility allows investors to select the best option based on their financial plans.
What is the due diligence process for the Malta Golden Visa?
The due diligence process involves a background check to verify the applicant’s financial and legal status. This step ensures that all applicants meet the necessary requirements. Moreover, it helps maintain the integrity of the program. As a result, only eligible and trustworthy individuals receive approval.
How long must I hold onto my property under the Malta Golden Visa?
If you purchase property, you must retain it for a minimum of five years. The lease must also remain in place for at least five years if you choose to lease a property.
