Malta

Many countries allow foreigners to obtain residence permits; however, some ways are more challenging than others.With a residence permit, you can live in another country for the long haul typically anywhere from 1 to 5 years. You can qualify for one in several ways: by proving your financial stability, owning property, or making an investment. Investment is one of the easiest ways to become a resident of a certain state. Many European countries have special programs designed for wealthy people who would like to become residents. Learn more about the easiest countries for getting a residence permit.

Albert Ioffe

Many wealthy people are planning to move to Malta in order to transfer assets to the country and optimise taxation. In this article, we explain the conditions of taxation in Malta.

Albert Ioffe

Newborn children acquire citizenship either by "right of blood" or "right of soil". In the first case, it is based on the citizenship of the parents, and in the second case, it depends on the country of birth. In some countries both these principles apply. We explain these concepts in detail.

Vladlena Baranova

Moving to a new country can be stressful, especially when language barriers make communication a challenge. Struggling to communicate using only gestures makes even simple tasks feel frustrating and overwhelming. Expats can skip this stress by choosing a destination where English is widely spoken. We've curated a list of 17 of the best countries for English speakers to live in, spanning Europe, the Caribbean, the Middle East, and Africa.

Alevtina Kalmuk

Argentina is known for its fast naturalisation process, allowing eligible residents to apply for citizenship after 2 years of legal residence. The government has also recently introduced a new citizenship by investment pathway, though the detailed rules and requirements are still being developed. Argentine citizens enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 160 destinations, along with strong constitutional protections that make citizenship irrevocable.

Elena Ruda

Obtaining citizenship is divided into legal and "working" ways. Fraudsters offer to buy a passport in violation of the laws of several states at once. This is fraught with trouble from large fines and a ban on entry into the EU countries to criminal liability and compromising evidence, which is at their disposal. We will tell you how to get a passport without consequences and how not to accidentally entrust your money and reputation to scammers.

Vladlena Baranova

Countries issuing citizenship by investment do not grant it automatically: they need to check on the applicant to ensure they are not likely to bring trouble into the country, even if they can fulfil the conditions for investment. The main points of interest are usually the sufficiency and legality of income, criminal record, and civil status. All of the above must be confirmed by specific documents. Here is the list of documents needed for citizenship application.

Vladlena Baranova

Maltese legislation allows non-EU citizens to buy and rent real estate in the country. Foreign investors in Maltese property can obtain temporary or permanent residency. Discover the benefits of being a property owner in Malta and explore the specifics of the Maltese real estate market.

Vladlena Baranova

In 2025, the Malta Permanent Residence Programme underwent several changes — some favourable to investors, others more restrictive. For instance, the minimum participation cost was initially raised from €150,000 to €182,000, before being reduced to €169,000. Another amendment permitted investors to rent out their property, though only under specific conditions. This guide explores the current requirements, recent changes, benefits, and important considerations.

Anna Semenyuk

A Malta residence permit may be granted on various grounds, the most common being employment, studies, family reunification, and investment of €30,000. The requirements and procedures depend on the type of permit. A residence permit holder has the right to relocate to Malta and travel visa-free within the Schengen Area. Investors may also obtain Maltese permanent residence. This is a lifelong status, although the residence card must be renewed every five years.

Julia Loko

Malta remains one of the few Schengen countries where a genuine non-domicile regime is still available for qualifying residents. For entrepreneurs with international structures, investors with international portfolios, family offices, and remote professionals, Malta’s non-dom framework can offer a practical long-term base. This guide explains how it works in practice: eligibility, tax mechanics, compliance, how it aligns with residence routes, key pitfalls, and how Malta compares with other jurisdictions.

Albert Ioffe

Malta combines low employer on-top costs, generous tax refunds, and EU-leading GDP growth, which already makes it a smart base for doing business. Although only 2.4% of companies are foreign-controlled, they generate 43.8% of total value added — a clear sign that international firms tend to scale well in Malta\[1\]. One of the practical ways for entrepreneurs to move their business to Malta is through the Malta Permanent Residence Programme. It offers lifelong status, no minimum stay requirement, Schengen access, and a strategic EU location for reaching both European and Mediterranean markets.

Robert Outerbridge

In 2024, EU countries issued 3.5 million first residence permits to non-EU nationals — a clear signal of Europe’s global pull. For Saudi citizens, the EU’s Golden Visa programs offer a unique entry point. A qualifying investment secures residence, visa-free Schengen access, and the long-term prospect of EU citizenship. Explore which EU countries offer these visas — and how they differ in cost, benefits, and family coverage.

Mohamed Zakaria

Foreign nationals can obtain two main types of visas for Malta. Those staying for fewer than 90 days apply for a Schengen C visa, while stays exceeding 90 days require a National D visa. The D visa usually allows the holder to apply for a residence permit and is often issued for purposes such as employment, study, or family reunification. Wealthy individuals may obtain residency directly, without a D visa, by investing at least €30,000 for a temporary residence permit or €169,000 for permanent residency.

Julia Loko

Malta allows same-sex marriage, adoption, and equal access to investment programs for temporary and permanent residency.  Let’s explore in detail what makes the island one of the safest and most inclusive places to live in Europe.

Julia Loko

A temporary residence permit grants the right to live abroad for a set number of years. It is often tied to employment, university enrolment, family reunification, or investment. Over time, one may become eligible for a permanent residence permit. This status allows indefinite stay and typically comes with fewer restrictions. This article explains the key differences between temporary and permanent residence permits, covering how they work, who qualifies, and why they matter for those looking to settle abroad.

Vladlena Baranova

Ireland's residency by investment programme allows non-EEA citizens to obtain residency in the state. Investors who receive a residence permit this way get the right to work, study and start a business in a country with the second-highest GDP per capita in the world. Learn if you’re eligible for the programme and find the best investment option for you.

Elena Ruda

It is not possible to obtain New Zealand citizenship by investment, but there are investment residence permit programs in the country. Under their terms, applicants invest from 3 million New Zealand dollars in the country's economy. We will tell you why the status of a resident of New Zealand is attractive and whether you need to move to the country in order to obtain citizenship.

Elena Ruda

Maltese citizens can travel to 187 countries without visas. It puts Malta citizenship in the 10 most powerful in the global passport index. Cosmopolitans have an opportunity to get Malta citizenship by naturalisation for exceptional services by direct investment. Learn about the conditions applicants must meet to become Maltese citizens and other benefits of the country's passport.

Julia Loko

Investors obtain Malta citizenship by naturalisation. Firstly, they get a residence permit and then apply for citizenship after one or three years. The minimum investment amount is €690,000. Malta passport holders can travel to more than 160 countries without visas. Foreigners become full-fledged Malta citizens if they pass a strict Eligibility Test. Dual citizenship has been accepted in Malta since 2000.

Julia Loko

Citizenship by investment is granted to foreign investors who make a significant contribution to a country's economy. This is a relatively fast way of obtaining a second passport.  18 jurisdictions offer citizenship by investment. Each has its own eligibility requirements and rules. The key is to choose the best option based on individual needs and preferences.

Lyle Julien

Wealthy people from all over the world buy properties abroad for various reasons. For example, to save money or get a holiday home. However, owning property is not enough to visit the country anytime or live there for as long as you want. That’s when a residence permit or citizenship is a must. Discover the countries where investors can combine business with pleasure by both purchasing liquid properties and obtaining a second passport or a residence permit.

Elena Ruda

If an immigrant does not have enough money to stay in the country, they can ask for help from a sponsor. The sponsor guarantees the government that the immigrant will receive financial support during their stay. Sponsors can be family members, friends, companies, or anyone else. Sponsors have certain responsibilities. First and foremost, their financial situation must allow them to help the immigrant while still being able to provide for themselves.

Vladlena Baranova

Foreigners apply for Latvia citizenship through naturalisation after residing in the country for 10 years. They meet residency requirements, demonstrate proficiency in Latvian, and take exams on Latvian history and culture. We wondered if there is any way to get a second passport in Latvia or other European countries faster. And indeed, there is.

Elena Ruda

It seems to only feel natural for Britons to seek variety. J.K. Rowling had completed the first three chapters of “Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone” while in Porto, Portugal, and Ian Fleming made James Bond’s ties with Switzerland obvious. It's estimated that around 5.5 million British citizens reside abroad. Britons move abroad to boost their quality of life, optimise taxes, and find a more affordable lifestyle. We’ve compiled a list of the best countries for Britons to move to.

Lyle Julien

Australia Business Innovation and Investment Visa is a government program designed to attract investors and business people who contribute to the national economy. Applicants can obtain an Australian Golden Visa for an investment of AUD 1.25 million or more or by starting a business in the country. Holders of business and investment visas have the right to reside in the country for 5 years and the possibility to obtain permanent residency in Australia.

Elena Ruda

An Ireland residence permit can be obtained for an investment of €400,000. The Investor Visa allows the holder to work, do business, and study in the country, and after five years of residence, they can apply for citizenship. We discuss who is eligible to apply for an Irish residence permit by investment, how to participate in the investment program and the grounds on which an Irish passport can be granted.

Elena Ruda

Rating agencies and financial magazines estimate banks to choose the most reliable ones for individuals and companies. Global Finance, an American financial magazine, assesses banks that work worldwide and are suitable for foreign investors. In 2022 it estimated banks from 150 countries. The list of winners was based on how banks performed in the previous year and such criteria as reputation, management excellence, and leadership in digital transformation. Read on to discover the list of reliable banks for investors.

Albert Ioffe

The cost of living in Malta island is lower than in Austria and other West European countries. Most foreigners who move to Malta note that the average monthly expenses are about €1,600 per person.  Some of our clients recently moved to Malta. In this article, we explore prices and our clients’ experience of living on the island.

Julia Loko

The main reason wealthy people choose Malta for immigration is an opportunity to move to one of the EU countries in several months. For example, obtaining a residence permit under the Malta Global Residence Programme takes 3—4 months. In comparison, getting a residence permit in France, Germany, or the Netherlands may be much more difficult. To move to Malta, wealthy foreigners may take advantage of immigration programmes: the Malta Global Residence Programme and the Malta Permanent Residence Programme. They allow obtaining a residence permit and permanent residency, respectively.

Julia Loko

Located in the Mediterranean Sea, Malta can be a safe haven with its pleasant climate and high living standards. A foreigner can get Malta’s passport by investing €600,000+ and living in Malta for 3 years or investing €750,000+ and living in the country for 1 year. Let’s discuss how to get Maltese nationality, who qualifies for it, what the requirements are, and how much it costs.

Julia Loko

Canada citizenship can be obtained by investing 1,200,000 of Canadian dollars in Quebec. This option is suitable only for those who plan to move to Canada for permanent residence. Canada citizenship cannot be obtained remotely: the applicant needs to confirm their knowledge of the language, ability to integrate into the local society and live in the country for three years. Only then can they apply for Canada citizenship. We consider the requirements for applicants and also offer alternative investment programs with less stringent conditions.

Albert Ioffe

Some countries grant citizenship not for money or years of residence but for excellence. Exceptional talent, achievements, and service can open the door to a passport. This rare path is reserved for those who stand out in science, business, culture, or sport and whose contributions align with national interests. Among the notable figures recognised in this way are Elon Musk and Tom Hanks. Explore how citizenship by merit works, which countries offer it, and what alternatives exist.

Vladlena Baranova

Malta has permitted dual citizenship since February 10th, 2000, and it's now the norm rather than the exception. This means that Maltese citizens can keep their foreign nationality in addition to their Maltese one.  Dual citizenship of Malta is obtained by birthright, marriage, descent, special services to the state, and naturalisation. Let’s explore all the paths to determine the easiest and fastest.

Julia Loko

A Malta passport grants the holder the right to move to Malta, reside long-term in any other EU country, and travel visa-free to 169 countries. The Maltese legislation allows applying for citizenship by naturalisation for exceptional services by direct investment. This process significantly reduces the waiting period for a passport, allowing applicants to qualify in just 1 or 3 years instead of the standard five years of residence. Let’s examine the benefits and drawbacks to determine how a Malta passport aligns with investment and immigration goals.

Julia Loko

More than 20 local and international banks are operating in Malta. Foreigners with Malta residence permits can open bank accounts in any of them: to do it, they should usually provide an ID, proof of an address in the country and other documents. The requirements, costs and application processing time depends on the bank itself.

Vladlena Baranova

French citizens can travel without visas to 188 countries and freely visit the countries in the Schengen area, the USA, Canada, Australia and Japan. France is a member of the European Union. With a French passport, you can work, do business, enroll in a school or university of any country in the European Union, Norway, Switzerland, Liechtenstein and Iceland.

Elena Ruda

Is it possible to obtain multiple citizenships? The answer is yes. A person can be a citizen of two or even more countries.  However, some countries do not allow dual citizenship, and in such cases, the original passport may be revoked. For instance, Austria requires individuals to renounce their previous citizenships when acquiring Austrian nationality. Keep reading to explore the conditions and potential challenges of holding multiple citizenships.

Vladlena Baranova

Germany citizenship allows the holder to live in Europe, visit 191 countries without a visa, access high-quality medicine and a prestigious education. A German passport can not be obtained by investment but only by naturalization, birth, adoption, marriage or immigration.

Elena Ruda

Finnish citizenship allows you to travel visa-free to 189 countries throughout the world, live and work in the EU, and take advantage of a free education system, as well as a high quality medical system. We discuss the conditions that need to be met to get a Finnish passport, the benefits of Finish citizenship, and whether you can remain a citizen of another country at the same time.

Elena Ruda

Every fifth resident in Malta is a foreigner. Expats love this country for a good reason — it boasts a mild climate, beautiful beaches, picturesque cities and an expat-friendly environment.  Above all that, it’s a relatively affordable place to live — for a comfortable life there, one needs fewer funds than for life in Germany, France, or Austria.  Learn more about the country, its history, the quality of life in Malta, and prices for everyday life.

Julia Loko

The European Union is not the same as the Schengen Area: some EU countries are not part of the Schengen Area, and vice versa.   These differences can restrict visa-free travel for second passport holders, and they need to be considered when selecting the European country where you want to live.  Learn which countries are visa-free for EU residents.

Vladlena Baranova

Third-country nationals can move to the EU after getting residency. A residence permit allows one to move to the country that granted the status, study there, get treatment, use reliable banking services, and in most cases — travel across the Schengen Area visa-free. Participating in state residency-by-investment programs is the most convenient way to become an EU resident. One can obtain not only status but also acquire profitable assets.

Vladlena Baranova

With a Czech passport, you do not need a visa to enter 185 countries. To travel to the US or Canada, citizens only need to obtain an eTA. The Czech Republic is a member of the European Union, and therefore its citizens enjoy benefits and privileges in other countries of this association. We tell you how to get a Czech passport, what benefits applicants receive if approved, and whether they can retain citizenship of other countries.

Elena Ruda

Buying property in another country allows investors to secure their funds, have a stable passive income, make a profit, and sometimes even obtain residency or citizenship in the country. Explore the easiest countries to buy property as a foreigner, where strong economies, growth potential, and a high quality of life offer fantastic opportunities.

Elena Ruda

Malta Permanent Residence Program allows wealthy foreigners to obtain a golden visa by investment. Applications are considered within 6 months. Travelling around the Schengen Area, working, studying, and living in Malta with no limits is not a complete list of benefits. However, there are some disadvantages of the Malta residency obtainment process.

Julia Loko

The PEP status, or the one of a politically exposed person, is associated with civil servants and senior executives at the national or international level. When obtaining a second citizenship, politically exposed persons undergo a stricter Due Diligence check than other applicants. The risk of rejection remains high even in the case of an ideal reputation and no criminal record. Learn how a politically exposed person can pass Due Diligence and get a second passport by investment.

Vladlena Baranova

In Malta, students are trained by one of the oldest universities in Europe. It is also included in the top 1,000 universities in the world according to the QS World University Ranking. At the same time, the cost of education for foreign students is two times lower than in UK universities.

Julia Loko