Summary
Malta has introduced notable changes to its Permanent Residence Programme, effective for applications submitted on or after January 1st, 2025.
Investors can now obtain temporary residence at the start of the process, enjoy more flexible property rules, and benefit from reduced costs for families.
Immigrant Invest has analysed and explained the key changes.
Malta has introduced a series of structural changes to its Permanent Residence Programme, as outlined in Legal Notice 146/25.
The reforms bring significant improvements in processing speed, cost structure, and leasing rights. These enhancements reinforce Malta’s status as a leading destination for secure, long-term residence in the European Union.
The changes apply to all applications submitted on or after January 1st, 2025.
Julia Loko,
Investment programs expert
The updated framework strikes a careful balance between efficiency, regulatory oversight, and investor appeal. Malta now offers one of the most structured residence programmes in Europe — with clearer procedures and faster access from day one.
New one-year temporary residence permit
Applicants are eligible to receive a temporary residence permit, valid for one year after completing initial background checks. This allows investors and their family members to reside in Malta while completing the full application process.
The complete application must be submitted within six months of the permit’s issuance. If the application is refused, the permit will be revoked within 15 days.
Unified fee structure and lower contribution cost
A flat €37,000 contribution now applies, regardless of whether the investor purchases or rents property. The non-refundable administrative fee is set at €60,000, increased from the previous €50,000.
A €7,500 fee applies to each principally dependent adult included in the application, excluding the spouse. The same amount is charged for any dependants added after the residence certificate is issued.
Fees under the Malta Permanent Residence Programme
The minimum investment amount has not changed. Applicants who choose to buy property in Malta must invest at least €375,000, with additional fees amounting to about 7% of the property’s value. The minimum rental price is €14,000 per annum.
Investors can now lease or sublet Malta properties
Investors gain flexibility in using their qualifying property. Real estate owners can now temporarily lease their qualifying property during periods they are not in Malta.
Investors who rent property in Malta are allowed to sublet their leased property after the initial 5-year period, with the landlord’s consent.
Biometrics and documents now submitted earlier
Biometric data is now collected at the beginning of the process. Under the new timeline, applicants provide their fingerprints and submit all required documents when applying for the temporary residence permit, instead of waiting for initial approval.
During the biometric appointment, applicants submit:
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cover letter;
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power of attorney;
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passport copies;
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insurance certificate;
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property documents;
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bank statements;
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Due Diligence letter.
Biometric appointments are booked through the Residency Malta online system.
Centralised licensing under Residency Malta Agency
All administrative authority is now consolidated under one agency. Licensing and oversight of agents will now be handled exclusively by the Residency Malta Agency. Existing licences issued by Agenzija Komunitá Malta will remain valid until December 31st, 2025.
The unified structure is expected to reduce confusion, speed up document processing, and simplify communication with government authorities.
How investors benefit from the new MPRP rules
The latest changes to Malta’s Permanent Residence Programme make the process clearer and easier for investors. The rules are now simpler to follow, with more predictable fees and more streamlined application flow.
Property rules have also been updated, giving investors more flexibility in how they manage their assets.
The updated rules make the programme a strong choice for those looking for long-term residence in Europe, along with greater mobility and security for their families.
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