The Government Malta launched Malta Residency Visa Program (MRVP) in 2015 to attract highly qualified individuals and families from third countries offering them residency to settle in Malta. Approved applicants after thorough background checks are entitled to the right to reside, settle or stay indefinitely in Malta together with one’s registered dependants.
MRVP is not a popular program mainly due to the fact that the scheme is not promoted widely like Portugal or Greece and many investors are not aware or don’t know about the scheme. But MRVP continues to gain great international momentum and popularity. The two fascinating sunny islands of Malta & Gozo are the cornerstone of this Programme.
MRVP Program
The MRVP programme falls under the Immigration Act. By virtue of Legal Notice 288 of 2015, as amended by Legal Notice LN 107 and LN 189 of 2017, a third country national who is issued with a residency certificate in terms of these Regulations, is entitled to the right to reside, settle or stay indefinitely in Malta together with one’s registered dependants.
Key benefits
The key benefits of the scheme include:
- A competitive low application fee when compared to other European Residency by Investment Programmes;
- Attainment of permanent residency for main beneficiary and dependants;
- Freedom of movement within the Schengen Zone, three months in every six months;
- Eligibility to apply for Long Term Residency in line with the Immigration Act and subject to additional requirements as per such laws;
- Option to redeem Qualifying Investment after five years (or) financing the investment is another very popular route making it the cheapest golden visa in Europe.
- Unique business opportunities and grants for prospective investors and opportunity for foreigners to invest in real estate market.
- No age restrictions to include family members making it super attractive for big families (upto fourth generation can apply)
- A democratic, politically stable and safe country with an economy that is growing relentlessly;
- A multicultural environment that accepts diversity;
- Expats and retirees looking to settle in Malta can greatly benefit from this scheme.
- Access to various high level English Language Schools and Educational Institutions;
- Malta the only country in the Schengen Zone where English is an official language;
- No minimum stay on the island is required to retain residency; Second-to-none Medical Health Care Solutions;
Unique business opportunities and grants for prospective Investors.
MRVP conditions
Malta is one of the few countries in the world that offers a golden visa against low risk investments such as government bonds which are fully repaid back by government.
Prospective applicants must meet ALL the conditions below, else cannot apply for the program.
- Net Assets – Applicants must prove annual income of not less than €100,000 arising outside Malta or has be in possession of capital assets of not less than €500,000.
- Qualifying Investment – Purchase Government Stock worth €250,000 (fully repaid back) or other stock/equities listed and trading on the Malta Stock Exchange. It is also possible financing government stocks for a low fee.
- Residency – Rent a property for a minimum of €10,000 in the South of Malta or €12,000 in the North of Malta (OR) purchase a property for a minimum value of €270,000 in the South of Malta and €320,000 in the North of Malta.
- Govt Fees – Pay Government administration fee is that of €30,000, plus additional €5,000 for each main applicant’s and spouse’s parent, grandparent, grandchild and dependant’s spouse.
- Holding period – Applicants must hold qualifying property and investments for a minimum of five years from the date of the issuance of their residency certificate.
- Health coverage – Apply for health insurance covering all risks across the EU.
Why Malta?
Malta has a chequered history. Its strategic location between Europe, Africa and the East attracted power struggles from foreign shores since ancient times. Malta became a British colony in 1815, an independent state in 1964 and a republic in 1974. Malta is a member of the Commonwealth of Nations and the United Nations. It joined the European Union in 2004, became part of the Schengen Area in 2007 and part of the eurozone in 2008.
- Malta is a democratic state and enjoys a stable government being one of the smallest countries in the European
- Malta is the fastest growing economies from among member states. Malta consistently registers high ratings from the major credit rating agencies. Malta is home to fintech, financial services, gaming, aviation and maritime industries.
- Warm climate, vibrant life and mediterranean climate with over 300 days of sunshine every year.
- Malta boasts educational institutions of the highest standards. A number of business schools operate in Malta with the official language being english
- Malta is an ideal country live safely and securely with moderate cost of living, and local population with a reputation of being friendly and hospitable.
- Maltese residents enjoy excellent quality medical care and are served by both public and private hospitals and a network of strategically located government health centres and private clinics.
Malta Residency Visa Agency (MRVA)
The Malta Residency Visa Agency is the Government entity responsible for managing and promoting Malta’s residency-by-investment programme (also known as “Golden visa” of Malta). The Agency is consistent in its rigorous efforts to attract quality individuals and families, applying a stringent four-tier due diligence process that ensures the most meticulous of screening. It is based on this ethic, coupled with transparency and integrity, that the Malta Residence and Visa Programme continues to gain significant momentum, enjoying high international repute.
Legal Framework
The legal framework is available for full download in pdf format
- LN 288 of 2015
- Subsidiary Legislation 217.18
- LN 107 of 2017
- LN 189 of 2017
- LN 201 of 2017
- LN 97 of 2018
- Subsidiary Legislation 497.21
- Public Administration Act (Cap 497)
- LN 156 of 2020
- LN 157 of 2020
