Malta offers one of the most attractive residence programs for high-net-worth individuals. Through the Malta Global Residence Programme, investors can benefit from a favourable tax system, secure residency in an EU member state, access global mobility, and obtain Malta citizenship.
Julia Loko, Investment Programs Expert at Immigrant Invest, explains why Malta’s Global Residence Programme is a smart choice for investors looking to secure their future.
What is Malta Global Residence
Maltese Residence Permit allows non-EU citizens to gain residency in Malta by fulfilling specific financial conditions. Introduced in 2013, this programme has become popular among high-net-worth individuals due to its simplicity and the benefits it offers. Investors must meet minimum property purchase or rental requirements and pay a regular government contribution to maintain their residence status.
Malta’s location in the EU, along with its stable economy, safety, and strong legal system, make it appealing for investors. The programme is straightforward, and once obtained, the residency offers access to visa-free travel within the Schengen Area and favourable conditions for living and working in Malta.
One of the standout features of Malta’s program is that it does not require applicants to reside in Malta for any length of time. However, they cannot spend more than 183 days per year in a country other than Malta. This makes it a great option for investors who want the flexibility to live elsewhere while holding a Maltese residence permit.
After maintaining residency for 5 years, Malta provides a pathway to citizenship by its naturalisation process, making it an attractive option for those seeking full EU citizenship. Once citizenship is obtained, individuals gain full EU rights and privileges, including visa-free travel across the EU and access to various business and tax benefits.
Malta Global Residence benefits for investors
Multiple lifestyle benefits. Holding a Malta Global Residence permit allows investors and their families to live in a Mediterranean country with excellent healthcare, education, and lifestyle options. The warm climate, English-speaking environment, and advanced infrastructure make Malta an ideal place for long-term residence or retirement.
Global mobility advantages. With a Malta residence permit, you can travel visa-free across the Schengen Area. This means unrestricted access to countries like Germany, France, Spain, and Italy for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. For business and leisure purposes, this offers significant convenience and freedom.
Family inclusion. Investors can include their spouse, children, and dependent parents or grandparents in the application. This means the entire family can enjoy the benefits of Malta’s residency and Schengen access, making it an ideal option for those seeking long-term relocation options for their loved ones.
Tax benefits of the Malta Global Residence Programme
Favourable tax system for residents. One of the main attractions of the Malta RP benefits is its tax regime. Malta does not impose a wealth tax, estate tax, or inheritance tax, making it attractive for individuals seeking to manage their wealth efficiently.
Tax on a remittance basis. As a resident of Malta, you are only taxed on income that is remitted to Malta. This means any income earned outside Malta, if not brought into the country, is not taxed. For high-net-worth individuals with international investments, this is a significant advantage.
Flat tax rate. Malta offers a 15% flat tax rate on foreign income brought into the country, with a minimum annual tax of €15,000. This rate is highly competitive compared to other European countries, making Malta an attractive destination for those looking to minimise their tax burden.
How to apply for Malta Global Residence Permit
To apply for the Malta Global Residence Programme, an investor must either purchase or rent property in Malta. The minimum property purchase requirement is €275,000, or €220,000 if purchasing in the south of Malta or Gozo. Alternatively, investors can rent a property with a minimum annual lease of €9,600.
Alongside the property investment, applicants must pay a one-time government contribution of €6,000,or €5,500 if renting property in Gozo or the south of Malta. This contribution ensures continued residency status and access to Malta’s benefits.
Applicants must also show proof of sufficient financial resources to support themselves and their families. Health insurance coverage that includes Malta and the EU is required. The application process can be completed in a few months, allowing investors to quickly secure their residence status.
Conclusion
Malta’s Global Residence Programme offers high-net-worth individuals a unique combination of lifestyle benefits, global mobility, and tax advantages. The straightforward application process, combined with the ability to include family members, makes it an ideal choice for investors seeking EU residency. With its favourable tax system and access to the Schengen Area, Malta remains one of the top options for securing a global residence.
