Nestled in the Mediterranean Sea off the North African coast, Malta is a popular tourist destination. With a warm climate all year round, a relaxed pace of life, stunning scenery and a UNESCO World Heritage Site capital city, it’s not difficult to see why.

But for those looking for greater international freedoms, Malta offers much more. This EU member state is home to one of the world’s most attractive residency-by-investment programs, opening the door to trade, travel and tax benefits.

So, if you’re on the lookout for a home-from-home, here’s why Malta is a great choice. 

Overview of Malta’s residency program 

Malta’s permanent residency program is one of the most sought-after in the world. It affords successful applicants the right to live, work, study and retire in the country indefinitely in return for a significant investment in real estate.

Permanent residents are free to travel throughout the Schengen area and wider EU without the need for a visa. Investors in the program can also come and go from Malta without restriction with no minimum residence requirement.

The residency program differs from Malta’s citizenship-by-investment program in that successful applicants do not receive a Maltese passport. Those who successfully obtain full citizenship can also benefit from visa-free travel to over 180 countries worldwide.

Eligibility criteria 

To be eligible to apply for Maltese residency, applicants must be non-EU citizens over 18 with a clear criminal record. You are also required to make a significant investment in the country for a minimum of five years.

Applicants must be in good health and of robust financial standing to ensure that you will not be a burden on the state during your time in the country. Proof of both will be required upon application. This may include evidence of capital assets worth at least EUR 500,000.

Health insurance is also required, covering medical treatment and emergency care in Malta and the wider EU.

Finally, while you will be expected to support the social improvement of the country, there is no formal language or civic test for Maltese residency. 

The application process

When you work with Knightsbridge to obtain your Maltese residency, our expert team will guide you through the following five-step process: 

Step 1: Due diligence and eligibility checks

Your Knightsbridge contact will check your eligibility for the program and ensure your documents are in order for a fast and smooth application process. This will include a review of your proof of funds, police and health checks and AML requirements. 

Step 2: Submit application
With the help of our immigration lawyers, we will submit your application and accompanying paperwork to the Maltese authorities for approval. 

Step 3: Approval and investment

If your application is successful, we will assist you in making your investment into Maltese real estate or other eligible funds. 

Step 4: Biometrics
At this stage, you will be required to travel to Malta to complete the final formalities and biometric scanning. 

Step 5: Residency card

Once all stages are complete, you will be issued your Maltese residency card. This allows you to reside in Malta full-time indefinitely.

Benefits of Malta’s residency program  

As a permanent resident of Malta, you will benefit from the following: 

Family rights
The right to live, work and study in Malta for you and your family. This includes your spouse or partner, any unmarried children and dependent parents.

Fast application process
In many cases, you can be a permanent resident of Malta within just six months.

International freedom
Freedom to travel visa-free across all EU states and free travel in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in every 180-day period.

Business opportunities
The right to start a business and trade in a low-cost and tax-efficient country. Access to one of the fastest-growing European economies with no barriers to trade with the rest of the EU.

Quality of life
High standard of living with access to one of the world’s best healthcare and education systems for you and your family.

Safety and security
Malta is a safe, peaceful and politically stable European nation. With proximity to the Middle East region, it’s the perfect base for a secure home from home from your country of origin.

Path to citizenship

After a cumulative period of four years of residence in Malta over a six-year period, you will be eligible to apply for full EU citizenship bringing many more benefits. 

Investment options

Investors in the Malta permanent residency program have two options.

Option 1: Property Lease

To qualify for this investment path, you must:

• Commit to a property lease of EUR 12,000 per annum in North Malta, OR EUR 10,000 per annum in South Malta or Gozo.
• Make a direct contribution of EUR 58,000 to the Maltese economy.
• Make a donation to a non-governmental organisation of EUR 2,000.
• Pay a non-refundable administration fee of EUR 40,000.

Option 2: Property Purchase Option

• A property purchase of EUR 350,000 in North Malta, OR EUR 300,000 in South Malta or Gozo.
• A direct contribution of EUR 28,000 to the Maltese economy.
• A donation to a non-governmental organisation of EUR 2,000
• A non-refundable administration fee of EUR 40,000

Why work with Knightsbridge Group?

Malta offers a fast, hassle-free and affordable path to a life of residency benefits within Europe and the EU. With your residency permit secured, you and your family will instantly benefit from visa-free EU travel, high-quality health and education services, a low cost of living and a greater freedom to trade with vast international markets.

With such advantages on offer, it is always a good idea to make your application with an industry expert.

At Knightsbridge Group, we understand the intricacies involved in the residency- and citizenship-by-investment process and are committed to streamlining the procedure for you.

With a wealth of experience in immigration services and a specialisation in obtaining second citizenship through strategic investments, we are your ideal companion on the path to acquiring greater global freedom for you and your family.

Contact our team today to start your application.