Everything you need to understand your options in Malta — clearly, simply, and independently.
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FreeMalta.com is an independent data analytics platform — not affiliated with any official residency agency. Content is strictly informational.
Citizens of third countries outside the EU, EEA, and Switzerland can apply for Malta Permanent Residency. However, citizens from sanctioned countries including Afghanistan, North Korea, Iran, Democratic Republic of Congo, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Yemen, and Venezuela cannot apply.
Applications from the Russian Federation and Republic of Belarus are currently not accepted.
Yes, parents or grandparents of the main applicant or spouse can be included as dependents if they are proven to be dependent on the main applicant at the time of application.
Required Documentation
There is no specific age threshold for parents or grandparents applying as dependents. The key requirement is proving financial dependency on the main applicant.
No, domestic workers cannot apply as dependents. The MPRP is exclusively open to the main applicant and their dependent family members only.
The main applicant must provide a sworn declaration stating the dependency situation. This is the primary document required.
Best Practice
All supporting evidence documents should be attached with the sworn declaration to substantiate the claim of financial dependency.
The Main Applicant must prove the dependent adult cannot live independently without the Main Applicant's support at the time of application.
Disqualifying Factors
A dependent adult cannot apply if they have accumulated wealth and/or sufficient income from: corporate connections, senior management positions, financial assets, or reasonable economic activities.
Even if the main applicant would contribute to a better lifestyle, the dependent cannot qualify under MPRP if they have independent financial means.
Yes, parents or grandparents receiving retirement pension can still apply as dependents, provided they prove this pension income does not prevent the main applicant from being primarily responsible for their care.
Required
The main applicant must submit a sworn declaration confirming that the parents or grandparents are essentially dependent on them, despite receiving pension income.
The administrative fee for each application is €60,000, paid in two stages:
Initial Payment (Non-refundable)
€15,000 must be paid within one month after application submission.
Final Payment
€45,000 must be paid within two months after the Letter of Approval in Principle is issued.
Purchasing Property
€28,000 — Covers main applicant, spouse, and dependent children
If Renting Property
€58,000 — Covers main applicant, spouse, and dependent children
Additional Fee for Parents/Grandparents
€7,500 per parent or grandparent
Applicants must make a €2,000 financial contribution to an approved organisation.
Eligible Organisations
Registered local NGOs in: Charity, Culture, Sports, Science, Animal Protection, Arts — registered with the Commissioner for Voluntary Organizations or otherwise approved by the Authority.
Yes, Identity Malta charges processing fees for residence cards:
🪪 Initial 5-Year Card
€137.50 per person
Renewal Fee
€27.50 per person
Residence Certificate
No expiration date — Valid indefinitely as long as programme obligations are met
🪪 Residence Card
Valid for 5 years, or until ages 14 and 18 (whichever comes first)
Renewal Requirements
Form K, Form ID1A, Form ID2, subscription agreement, and biometric data collection for all listed beneficiaries.
Yes, you can! But you must wait until after your residence certificate is issued.
Required Documents (MPRP7 + MPRP2,3,4,4a,10)
Important
The applicable contribution fee for dependents must be paid with the application.
There is no official guideline on agent fees. Each licensed agent sets their own pricing.
Pro Tip
Shop around and get quotes from multiple licensed professionals to find the best value for your needs.
No! You can apply first and sort out the property later.
⏰ Timeline
You have 8 months after receiving your Letter of Approval in Principle to purchase or rent a qualifying property and submit the required documents.
Already Have Property?
If you've already rented or purchased a property before applying, that's fine too as long as it meets requirements under S.L. 217.26.
Yes, you can switch properties! As long as you continuously maintain a qualifying property.
Important Restriction
You cannot switch from owned property to rental during the first 5 years. Switching from rental to purchase, or between two rentals, or between two owned properties is fine.
⏱ Critical Timing
Absolutely! This is a smart strategy many applicants use. Start with a rental to get your residency sorted, then take your time finding the perfect property to buy.
The Key Requirement
Both properties (the rental and the purchase) must meet the required participation criteria under MPRP.
Not During First 5 Years
You cannot switch from owned property to rental within the first 5 years. Plan accordingly when making your initial property decision.
No Hotel Rooms
Buying hotel rooms does NOT qualify as a residential property under MPRP regulations.
You Need
An actual home, apartment, or house — somewhere you'd genuinely live.
Yes! If you bought a property in South Malta for €220,000 and plan to spend at least €100,000 on renovations, that totals over €300,000 — and this qualifies.
Key Requirements
Required: detailed valuation report
From an independent architect/engineer including property plans, description of works, and total value calculation.
Yes, you still need it! Even if your qualifying property is located outside a Special Designated Area (SDA), you must obtain an Acquisition of Immovable Property (AIP) permit.
Mandatory Requirement
The AIP permit is required for all property purchases under MPRP, regardless of location.
After 5 years, you are not required to maintain the specific qualifying property with minimum value thresholds.
What You Still Need
You must continue to own or rent any residential property in Malta or Gozo to maintain your residence status — no minimum value required anymore.
Maybe! Whether you can take out a loan is entirely at the bank's discretion. Your MPRP status may be a factor, but ultimately it's up to the financial institution.
No contract needed yet! At the application stage, you don't need to submit a purchase promise or rental contract.
What You DO Need
In Form MPRP1, complete the declaration committing to provide title deed evidence for a qualifying property. Authentication options: (1) licensed agent certifies via Residency Malta's digital portal, or (2) sign Section G in front of a Commissioner for Oaths.
Only the shares relevant to the main applicant and their included spouse will be considered toward the €500,000 capital requirement.
Spouse's Share
Only if your spouse is included in the application will their share be considered.
Other Family Members
Shares owned by children, parents, or grandparents do NOT count — even if they're dependents in the application.
The capital requirement applies only to the main applicant:
If Purchasing Property
€500,000 net worth with minimum €150,000 in financial assets
If Renting Property
€650,000 net worth with minimum €175,000 in financial assets
Fixed Amount
The amount does NOT vary based on the number of dependents.
No Cryptocurrencies
Cryptocurrencies are NOT accepted as part of your financial assets for the €150,000 liquid assets requirement.
Accepted Financial Assets
Programme Changed
The €100,000 annual employment income option from the old programme has been removed.
Current Requirement
All applicants must demonstrate €500,000 in capital assets with at least €150,000 in liquid financial assets. No income-based alternative exists.
Your €500,000 capital (with €150,000 in financial assets) must be monitored annually for the first 5 years.
How to Declare
Submit Form MPRP5 (Annual Compliance Form) signed by both the beneficiary and the licensed agent.
⏰ Years 1–5 only
After year 5, annual asset monitoring is no longer required.
Two Separate Requirements
Yes, completely separate! The property value does NOT count toward the €500K capital.
What You Need to Prove
1 Capital: €500,000 (€150,000 liquid)
2 Property Purchase: €300K (South/Gozo) or €350K (North)
OR Rental: €10K/yr (South/Gozo) or €12K/yr (North)
Required Documents
Absolutely! The Agency accepts wealth held in real estate, securities, or businesses.
Accepted Documents
What the Agency Wants to See
Sufficient resources to meet property requirements, €500K capital (€150K liquid), and enough additional funds to support yourself and dependents.
Yes! Property valuations toward the €500,000 capital requirement are accepted.
Architect's Valuation Accepted
An architect's valuation report is accepted as proof of your property's value.
Important Clarification
This refers to your existing property portfolio — NOT the qualifying property you purchase/rent for MPRP. You still need €150,000 in liquid financial assets.
Yes, absolutely! The applicant's spouse is considered a dependent, and there are no restrictions preventing the spouse from having their own assets and sources of income.
It depends on your ownership percentage:
Over 10% Ownership
Company documents are required.
Under 10% Ownership
Company files are not required.
Yes, donations are acceptable — but they must be properly documented and transferred to the main applicant.
Required Process
Agent Must Submit
Record Keeping
Agents must retain evidence of investigations they conducted themselves.
KYC proof must be submitted after the application stage. It's not required at initial submission but will be requested by the Authority during the processing phase.
No documents needed before booking! Just ensure that when you submit the application file at your appointment, all documents are complete.
Exception — Police Conduct Certificate
For jurisdictions requiring the Authority's recommendation letter to issue police conduct certificates, agents should submit the request before applying.
Official Resource
Visit the Community Malta Agency website and download the latest Agent Handbook for the comprehensive document checklist.
No, originals are not mandatory. At the initial application stage these can be submitted as originals, apostilled certified true copies, or notarized certified true copies.
Translation Requirements
Always Required
If there is a divorced person — whether the main applicant or someone with dependent status — the divorce certificate must be submitted in all circumstances, even if the person has remarried.
Custody Scenarios
The required form is Declaration for Dependent Minor Child — Form MPRP4a.
Joint Custody Scenario
The other parent must complete Section C of Form MPRP4a and submit a copy of their passport.
If Certificate Cannot Be Obtained
Only in exceptional circumstances, the following alternative is accepted: sworn declaration from government/police authority confirming good faith efforts were made, plus separate sworn declarations from the applicant and all dependents declaring clean criminal records.
Not Required
No, if the applicant has never resided in Malta, a Malta Police certificate is not required.
Form MPRP1 is Sufficient
The declaration in Section B of Form MPRP1 is sufficient. No separate commitment letter required.
Chinese Documents Authentication Process
Proven Process
This procedure has already been followed by several applicants without problems.
Original Requirements
Translation Requirements
Not Just for Self-Employed
When business ownership is involved, whether full or partial, proof is required regardless of employment status. Refer to Question S56 in the handbook.
Yes, Required
If the main applicant has declared they are engaged in work other than self-employment, proof of employment is required.
Dual Employment Documentation
Required Documents
Alternative — Official Extract
An official extract from the national company registry can replace the above if it includes: incorporation details, list of shareholders, registered/paid-up capital with dates, and list of board members.
Sworn Declaration Sufficient
The sworn declaration regarding dependents is sufficient on its own.
Supporting Documents Help
Marriage Certificate
One marriage certificate (or certified true copy) is acceptable for a married couple.
Divorce Certificates
All divorce certificates must be submitted — including all previous divorces for any person in the application.
Children Under 12 (at application date)
Check the box in Section B and complete entire Section C.
Children Ages 13–18
Complete both Sections B and C.
Section C — Completed by Main Applicant or Spouse
Indicate sole custody if applicable. Section D is completed by the child's other parent/legal guardian if the other parent does NOT have sole custody.
Option 1: Digital Identity Verification (Preferred)
Option 2: Commissioner for Oaths
Form Sufficient
The form is sufficient if accompanied by the patient's identification document that has been stamped, signed, and dated by the examining doctor. No separate health report is required.
Who Can Complete Section D
Authorized Authorities
Any authority in the relevant jurisdiction that has the power to administer sworn declarations and is officially confirmed as valid by the Authority. Local court oath commissioners are also acceptable.
Important Requirement
All signatures must include the seal and other information of the relevant authority.
Written & Signed Declarations (Sufficient)
For some cases such as asset/income declarations, written and signed declarations are sufficient.
Sworn Declarations (Required)
When specifically required — for example, the main applicant declaring they are responsible for dependents over 18 years old.
Yes, Authorized
A Commissioner for Oaths is an authorized person who can certify the signature of the declarant on a sworn declaration.
Not Accepted
Oaths taken via video calls are NOT accepted. Oaths must be taken in person with the officer present, with the location clearly indicated. The officer confirms identity and verifies documents.
Receipt Sufficient
A receipt showing the €2,000 donation obtained from an NGO registered with the Commissioner for Voluntary Organizations is sufficient proof.
Agent Submits on Your Behalf
No, the main applicant does not need to be present. The licensed agent submits the application on behalf of the applicant.
Payment Method
Via electronic bank transfer. When the application file is approved, a fee request is sent to the agent. The transfer must come from the bank account declared in Form MPRP2 and include the application reference number.
Accepted
Direct bank transfer from the bank account declared in Form MPRP2.
NOT Accepted by Residency Malta Agency
Exception — Identity Malta Only
Bank/credit cards are only accepted for payments to Identity Malta for residence permit processing.
Mandatory Agent Letter
The Authority requires the agent to submit a cover letter explaining the applicant's interest in applying for Malta residence through investment.
Optional Letter of Intent
The main applicant may also choose to submit a letter of intent expressing their motivations and plans.
1 Application Submission
Agent schedules appointment with Client Relations and Compliance unit. Incomplete applications will NOT be accepted.
2 File Review & Official Receipt
After Authority reviews, an official receipt is issued requesting the €15,000 non-refundable initial fee.
3 Due Diligence
After fee payment, due diligence is conducted. If successful, application is submitted to the Approval Board.
4 Letter of Approval in Principle
Main applicant must then pay contribution, purchase/rent qualifying property, make donation, and obtain health insurance.
5 Residence Certificate (within 7 days)
Issued within 7 days after all required documents are submitted and deemed acceptable.
6 Biometrics & Card Printing
Final Approval Letter issued, biometrics collected, residence card printed — approximately 2 weeks.
Residence Certificate
No expiration date as long as you continue to comply with regulatory requirements.
🪪 Residence Card
Initially valid for 5 years, renewable. Children's cards expire one month after their 14th birthday, or when they turn 18.
Infants Under 2 Years Old — Exempted
However, Form ID2 with 2 certified passport-sized photos is still required.
Disabled Individuals
Each case is evaluated individually based on specific circumstances.
No Language Test
No language test will be conducted for the main applicant or dependents under MPRP.
Renewal Fee
€27.50 per person annually for residence card renewal.
Not Available Abroad
Residence cards cannot be renewed from abroad via the Malta Embassy. Renewal must be processed within Malta.
Yes, if the main applicant is the company owner or has authority as manager/shareholder, they can use the company account for fee payments.
Required Documents
The health insurance policy must be submitted after application approval along with other required documents.
Important Requirement
Must be accompanied by a declaration signed by the Main Applicant stating they will cover all additional medical expenses not covered by the policy for all beneficiaries.
🆕 New Applications (From August 1, 2024)
At least €100,000 annually per beneficiary for all healthcare expenses in Malta and other European countries.
Old Applications (Before August 1, 2024)
At least €30,000 annually per beneficiary.
Must Travel to Malta
After receiving the Final Approval Letter, the main applicant and all dependents must travel to Malta for biometric data collection. No remote or embassy option.
Yes, beneficiaries can apply for Malta citizenship through naturalisation after meeting residence requirements.
Eligibility Requirements
Ministerial Discretion
Meeting requirements does not automatically grant citizenship. The Minister's decision is based on internal policies.
Originally introduced in 2017 and amended in July 2025, Citizenship by Merit is a formal ground for acquiring Maltese nationality for individuals who demonstrate extraordinary value to Malta or humanity through achievements, innovation, service, or philanthropy.
Legal Framework (2025 Updates)
Implemented through the Granting of Citizenship for Exceptional Services by Merit Regulations, 2025 (Legal Notice 159 of 2025).
Family Inclusion
Successful applicants may include spouse/partner and dependent children in the citizenship application.
Exceptional Services or Contributions
Services rendered must be of recognised value to Malta and in the public interest.
Discretionary Grant
Citizenship is granted on a case-by-case basis by the Minister, administered by Community Malta Agency and evaluated by an Evaluation Board.
No Fixed Financial Threshold
Assessment is qualitative, based on merit — not a financial requirement.
Due Diligence & Integration
Applicants must meet robust integrity standards and explain how they intend to continue contributing to Malta after naturalisation.
An exceptional contribution means a clear and measurable benefit to Malta's public interest as per Malta's Vision 2050:
Economic Initiatives
Launching initiatives that create value to Malta's economy
International Recognition
Achieving recognition that raises Malta's profile
Social & Charitable Causes
Supporting causes aligned with Maltese values
Innovation & Leadership
Developing technological or cultural projects that position Malta as a leader
1 Residency Stage
Satisfy an eight-month residence condition, evidenced through a residence permit.
2 Submission of Proposal Letter
A comprehensive proposal letter submitted via Community Malta Agency to the Evaluation Board. Outlines background, proposed contribution, and post-naturalisation plans.
3 Initial Due Diligence & Evaluation Board Assessment
Four-tier initial due diligence check, then forwarded to Evaluation Board. Must also be endorsed by a designated competent body.
4 Letter of Approval in Principle
Following a favourable recommendation from the Evaluation Board, the Minister may issue a Letter of Approval in Principle.
5 Formal Citizenship Application
After at least 8 months of legal residence. Must include: proof of residence, residential property, evidence of contribution, endorsement by competent body, and language proficiency proof.
7 Ongoing Compliance Monitoring
Post-naturalisation commitments are monitored. In cases of serious non-compliance, the Minister has authority to deprive citizenship.
Full EU Rights
Right to reside, study and work in any of the 27 EU countries, plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland, and UK.
Global Mobility
Visa-free travel to more than 180 countries, including USA, Canada, Australia, and Japan.
Economic Stability
Malta has an A+ credit rating and one of the highest economic growth rates in the EU.
Favorable Taxation
Favorable taxation system for both corporate and individuals.
Family Benefits
EU citizenship for entire family including children under 29. Citizenship is inherited regardless of country of birth.
🪪 Dual Citizenship
Malta recognizes dual citizenship — no need to renounce your current nationality.
Full Dual Citizenship Rights
Yes! There are no restrictions on dual citizenship in Malta. You can hold Maltese citizenship alongside citizenship(s) from other countries without any limitations.
No Investment-Based Citizenship
The 2020 investor-based Malta Citizenship by Investment was terminated by the 2025 Citizenship Reform after the 2025 CJEU Ruling ruled against its transactional elements.
Merit-Based Pathway Only
To qualify for citizenship, an applicant needs to satisfy the merit rules — exceptional contributions that benefit Malta's public interest.
Malta's citizenship by merit is enshrined in Article 10(9) of the Maltese Citizenship Act (Cap. 188).
Article 10(9) — Two Qualifying Grounds
Definition of 'Exceptional'
Manifestly superior contributions by: Scientists, Researchers, Athletes, Artists, Cultural performers, Investors, Entrepreneurs. All grants subject to strict due diligence and national security checks.
Core Documents
Professional Documentation
Official Forms
Endorsements must come from recognised Maltese bodies appropriate to your field:
Sports & Athletics
National sports associations registered with Sport Malta
Culture and Arts
Arts Council Malta or Superintendence of Cultural Heritage
Science and Research
Recognised tertiary institutions, National Council for Further and Higher Education, or Malta Council for Science and Technology
EU Rights
Live, work, and study in any EU member state — full freedom of movement across 27 countries
Global Mobility
Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 190 countries worldwide
Quality of Life
Access to Malta's healthcare, education, social services, and Mediterranean lifestyle
Business Opportunities
Strategic location and favorable business environment for entrepreneurs and investors
The process typically takes around 15 months from initial submission to final approval:
1 Proposal Letter Submission
Submitted to the Evaluation Board at Community Malta Agency. Includes applicant information, proposed exceptional services, and post-naturalisation plans.
2 Due Diligence & Approval in Principle
Thorough due diligence, Board evaluation, and if positive, Minister may issue Letter of Approval in Principle.
3 Residence Period & Formal Application
Reside in Malta for at least 8 months, then submit formal application with all required documents.
4 Additional Due Diligence & Second Review
Community Malta Agency conducts further checks, then refers to Evaluation Board for second review.
5 Letter of Approval, Oath & Commitment
Minister issues official Letter of Approval. Applicant takes Oath of Allegiance and signs undertaking to uphold ongoing obligations.
Science, Research & Innovation
Groundbreaking research, scientific advancement, technological innovation
Art & Culture
Cultural preservation, artistic excellence, heritage contribution
Entrepreneurship & Technology
Business innovation, job creation, economic development
Philanthropy & Social Services
Charitable work, social impact, community development
Sports
Athletic excellence, sports development, international recognition
No Minimum Investment
There is no minimum investment requirement under Malta Citizenship by Merit. Eligibility is based on qualitative contributions and tangible value-add to Malta, not financial thresholds.
Yes, Family Inclusion Permitted
Eligible family members, including the applicant's spouse and dependent children, may be included in the citizenship application.
⏰ Processing Timeline
Generally takes around 15 months from initial submission to final approval, depending on the complexity and individual circumstances.
Robust Integrity Standards
Applicants must meet robust integrity standards through comprehensive due diligence checks conducted at multiple stages of the application process.
Post-Naturalisation Commitment
Applicants must explain how they intend to continue their contribution to Malta following naturalisation. Ongoing commitment is monitored by Community Malta Agency.
The Malta Retirement Programme (MRP) is a special tax residency scheme for retirees who wish to settle in Malta, offering a favorable 15% flat tax rate on foreign income remitted to Malta.
Key Eligibility Criteria
Employment Restrictions
Beneficiaries cannot be employed in Malta, though non-executive board positions are allowed.
15% Flat Tax Rate
Only 15% tax on foreign pension income remitted to Malta (minimum €7,500/year)
Tax Exemptions
No tax on foreign income not remitted to Malta or foreign capital gains (even if remitted)
Schengen Access
Visa-free travel across Schengen Area up to 90 days per 180-day period
World-Class Healthcare
Access to Malta's healthcare system ranked 5th globally by WHO
Mediterranean Lifestyle
300+ days of sunshine, crystal-clear seas, safe environment, English as official language
Minimum Age
Applicants must be over 55 years old
Employment Restriction
Beneficiaries cannot be employed in Malta, though they may hold non-executive board positions or engage in philanthropic work
75% Rule
At least 75% of total chargeable income must come from a pension, fully remitted to Malta
Minimum Pension Amount
€10,000 per year for single applicants, or €15,000 per year with a spouse
Remittance Requirement
The pension must be transferred to a Maltese bank account to qualify for the 15% tax rate
Buying Property
€275,000 minimum in Malta (North) or €220,000 in Gozo/South Malta
Renting Property
€9,600 per year in Malta (North) or €8,750 per year in Gozo/South Malta
Application Fee
€2,500 one-time non-refundable fee (covers applicant and all dependants)
Residency Card Fee
€27.50 per person, renewed every 5 years
⏱ Processing Time
Typically 3–4 months from submission to approval
15% Flat Rate
A flat 15% tax rate applies to foreign-sourced pension income remitted to Malta
Minimum Annual Tax
€7,500 per year minimum tax, plus €500 per dependant or special carer
Tax Exemptions
Foreign income not remitted to Malta and foreign capital gains (even if remitted) are generally not subject to Maltese tax
90-Day Rule
Must reside in Malta for at least 90 days per year (averaged over 5 years)
183-Day Restriction
Cannot spend more than 183 days per year in any other single jurisdiction
Flexibility
No minimum stay per visit — the 90-day rule is calculated as an average over 5 years
EU-Wide Coverage
Must maintain comprehensive health insurance covering all risks across the entire EU
Typical Cost
Private health insurance typically costs around €300 per year
Police Conduct Certificate
Must provide a police conduct certificate issued within 6 months of application
Fit-and-Proper Test
Applicants must pass a fit-and-proper test to demonstrate good character and suitability
EU/EEA Citizens
Citizens of EU member states, EEA countries, and Switzerland are eligible
Non-EU Citizens
Non-EU nationals from third countries are also eligible to apply
Not Eligible
Maltese citizens cannot apply for MRP
Yes, Dependants Included
Spouse and dependent children can be included in the application
Additional Tax Per Dependant
€500 per dependant or special carer added to the minimum annual tax of €7,500
Increased Pension Requirement
With a spouse, the minimum pension increases to €15,000 per year
Schengen Access
MRP beneficiaries can travel visa-free across the Schengen Area
90/180 Rule
Up to 90 days within any 180-day period in other Schengen countries
No Automatic Employment Rights
MPRP does NOT grant any employment licence rights.
Work Permit Required
Beneficiaries must apply for a work permit following normal procedures.
Business Establishment Allowed
The beneficiary or their spouse can apply to establish a business in Malta as long as they meet current legislative requirements.
Dependents Too
Dependents can also establish businesses without losing their residence permit.
No Tax Benefits
MPRP does not include any tax relief or incentives. Standard Malta tax provisions apply.
General Tax Principles
Malta Residents: Taxed on Malta-source income + foreign income remitted to Malta.
Non-Malta Residents: Only taxed on Malta-source income and capital gains.
Professional Advice Required
Each individual must determine applicable tax based on their specific circumstances. Seek advice from a tax consultant.
No Free Education
No, minors do not have the right to free education under MPRP.
Exception — If Parents Have Work Permit
If the main applicant or spouse obtains a work permit in Malta, parents can apply for their children to be exempted from fees under the Education Act.
No Employment Rights in Schengen
MPRP does not grant any employment rights within the Schengen Area.
Work Permit Required
The applicant must apply for a work permit according to the provisions of the specific Schengen country.
Schengen Area Only
Visa-free travel is limited to Schengen Area countries only, not all of Europe.
⏱ 90/180 Rule
Maximum 90 days within any 180-day period.
Required Documents
Always carry both valid passport and residence card when travelling.
No Age 27 Limit
No, the 27-year age limit that was in effect under previous legislation is no longer in force.
Residence Continues
No, they do not lose their residence status under MPRP as long as they continue to meet eligibility criteria.
Property and Status Linked
Selling property or terminating lease will cause loss of status. Renouncing your residence certificate removes all obligations.
Impact on Dependents
If the beneficiary renounces or loses their permit, all dependents automatically lose their residence permits too.
The MPRP5 is a formal annual declaration confirming the beneficiary's obligations have been fulfilled.
When to Submit
Annually for the first 5 years, thereafter at the Authority's discretion. Must be submitted 1 calendar week before the compliance deadline.
Additional Document Requests
If additional documents are requested (MPRP41 stage), they must be submitted within 3 calendar weeks. Failure may result in cancellation of all residence cards.
🪪 Standard Validity
Residence cards are issued with 5-year validity, except for minor dependents (card expires on 14th or 18th birthday).
5-Year Renewal Process
Minimum 1 Year Required
The rental agreement must not be shorter than one year.
Continuous Residence Required
The programme beneficiary must always have a valid residence in Malta without any gaps.
No Minimum Property Value After 5 Years
You are not required to maintain a property meeting minimum value thresholds.
Basic Requirements After 5 Years
Yes, First 5 Years Only
After year 5, the €500K capital requirement (and €150K liquid assets) no longer applies.
No Fee Transfer
The MPRP administrative fee is non-refundable and non-transferable. It cannot be deducted from Citizenship by Exceptional Services programme fees.
No Direct Switch
These two programmes are separate and independent.
What You Can Do
An applicant may withdraw their Citizenship by Exceptional Services application and then apply for MPRP — but they must follow the complete MPRP process from the beginning.
Yes, New Forms Required
Yes, the applicant must submit new residence permit application forms to the Authority. Documents from previous permits have no connection to the MPRP application.
Form MPRP10 — GDPR Compliance
All applicants must sign Form MPRP10 to provide consent under EU GDPR regulations.
Minor Dependents
Form MPRP10 is also required for minor dependents. It must be signed by one of the parents.
Residence Permits Lost
Impact on Children
Children from the divorced spouse may also be affected, particularly when the child's other biological parent is not among the programme beneficiaries. Each situation is evaluated separately.
An EU citizen cannot apply for MPRP themselves, but their non-EU partner can apply as the main applicant, financially supported by the EU citizen donor.
This Is Permitted
There is no obstacle to the non-EU partner applying as the main applicant while being financially supported by an EU citizen donor.
DONOR — One-Time Gift
A donor makes a one-time donation at a specific time to help the main applicant accumulate total wealth. Requires: copy of donor's passport.
BENEFACTOR — Ongoing Financial Support
A benefactor assumes responsibility for helping the main applicant meet financial requirements on an ongoing basis. Requires: Form MPRP2, Form MPRP4, 3-month bank statement, certified copies of ALL valid passports, employment proof, business ownership proof, sworn declaration, police conduct certificate.
No Appeal Process
Decisions by the Approval Board are final and cannot be appealed. There is no mechanism to challenge or reverse the Board's decision.
Applicants must have no communicable diseases to qualify.
Hepatitis B Carriers
A person who is a Hepatitis B carrier — even if clinically healthy — will not meet the 'no communicable disease' criterion and therefore cannot benefit from the programme.
Seek Clarification First
Strongly recommended to seek clarification from the Authority before submitting an application. The Authority's decision on medical eligibility is final.
Required Documents
The Main Applicant must submit the original statement indicating the reason for withdrawal. All certificates and cards must be returned within one month after the withdrawal request is approved.
Yes, Individual Withdrawal Permitted
A dependent can withdraw their application separately from the Main Applicant.
Minor vs Adult
Minor: Main Applicant submits statement on their behalf.
Adult: They must submit a signed statement in their own name.
Yes, Accepted
Unmarried partnerships are accepted, provided sufficient evidence of the partnership is submitted.
⏱ Submit Before Application
Since the unmarried partnership must be approved by the Minister, all supporting documents must be submitted before the initial application.
Core Documents
Evidence of Long-Term Relationship
Yes, With Evidence
Step-parents are accepted, provided sufficient evidence of a genuine bond between the step-parent and the Main Applicant or Spouse is submitted.
Authority's Final Decision
The Authority's decision on whether the evidence proves a genuine relationship is final and not subject to objection.
Childhood Marriage
The biological parent married a step-parent while the Main Applicant was still a minor.
Pre-Marriage Relationship
The biological parent married a step-parent before the Main Applicant got married.
Significant Role in Upbringing
The step-parent played a significant role in raising the Main Applicant, even if not yet married to the biological parent at that time.
Evidence Documents
⏰ Submit Before Application
Since validity requires prior approval by the Authority, all documents must be submitted before the application is made. Schedule an appointment with the Client Relations and Compliance unit in advance.
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