The Ultimate 2025 Guide to Malta’s Residency by Investment Program

In today’s uncertain world, global citizens are seeking more than just wealth preservation, they’re seeking freedom, stability, and opportunity. For those ready to invest in a better future, Malta’s Residency by Investment Program (PRP) offers a strategic gateway into the European Union.

This 2025 guide walks you through everything you need to know about the Malta PRP, from recent updates to long-term benefits for families, investors, and legacy planners.

What Is the Malta Residency by Investment Program?

The Malta Permanent Residency Programme (PRP) allows investors and their families to obtain permanent residency in Malta, and by extension, visa-free travel across the Schengen Area, in return for meeting specific investment and contribution requirements.

This program is structured, EU-compliant, and ideal for investors who value access and lifestyle, but don’t want to relocate full time.

Why Global Investors Choose Malta

Malta remains a top pick for investors seeking a long-term EU base without full relocation. It’s the combination of lifestyle perks, legal certainty, and strategic location that makes this island nation stand out.

Benefits include:

Schengen Mobility: Travel across 27 EU countries visa-free.
EU Permanent Residency: A reliable, legally solid status.
Access to Education & Healthcare: Choose to use or simply keep as an option.
No Physical Stay Required: Residency without relocation.
Full Family Inclusion: Parents, grandparents, children, all in one application.
Structured & Transparent: Vetted and EU-compliant.

Investment Requirements

To secure residency, investors must meet three financial obligations. The structure is clear, and recent updates have made it more cost-effective, especially for those renting.

Your commitments:
1. Government Contribution

€37,000 – one-time contribution per application (covers main applicant + eligible family).

Administrative Fees (2025 rates)

€60,000 – for the main applicant.
€7,500 – per dependent (excluding spouse, disabled children, and children under 18).

2. Property Investment (Choose one)

Purchase: €375,000 depending on location
Rent: €14,000 annually (5 years minimum)
Note: Subletting is now allowed after year 5

3. Charitable Donation

€2,000 to a registered Maltese NGO

Who Is Eligible?

The program is designed for individuals with solid financial backgrounds and a clean record. It’s open to non-EU nationals who meet minimum asset or income thresholds.

You must:

Hold non-EU/EEA nationality
Have assets of €500,000 (of which at least €150,000 must be financial assets) or assets of €650,000 (of which at least €75,000 must be financial assets
Pass a clean criminal background check
Hold valid global health insurance
Pass due diligence checks by Maltese authorities

Application Timeline

The process is now even more streamlined. With the 2025 changes, applicants get early access via a temporary card while completing the rest of their commitments.

Typical Journey

Step 1 – Application Submission

Applicant (via licensed agent) submits the application.
Payments due (within 1 month):
- €15,000 (part of the €60,000 administrative fee).
Also required:
- Proof of assets:
  - €500,000 total assets (min. €150,000 financial assets), or
  - €650,000 total assets (min. €75,000 financial assets).

Step 2 – Due Diligence Review

The Agency conducts background and eligibility checks.
If approved, applicant receives a Letter of Approval in Principle (LoA).

Step 3 – After LoA (Within 2 Months)

Payments due:
- €45,000 (remaining balance of the €60,000 administrative fee).
- €7,500 per dependent (excluding spouse, minor children, or disabled adult children).

Step 4 – After LoA (Within 8 Months)

Payments due:
- €37,000 government contribution (flat, regardless of property choice).
- €2,000 donation to an approved Maltese NGO.
Also required:
- Proof of qualifying property:
  - Purchase: min. €375,000 in Malta/Gozo, or
  - Rent: min. €14,000 per year.
- Evidence of valid health insurance covering all risks for Maltese nationals.
- Any additional documents requested by the Agency.

Step 5 – Issuance of Certificate

Once all requirements and fees are met, the Agency issues the Residence-by-Investment Certificate, granting the main applicant and approved dependents the right to reside, settle, and stay indefinitely in Malta.

Expect a timeline of 4–6 months in most cases.

Tax & Business Advantages

Beyond lifestyle and access, Malta also offers real tax efficiency. Its system favors non-domiciled residents and is ideal for entrepreneurs and global investors seeking a strategic EU base.

Highlights:

Non-domiciled residents are taxed only on Malta-source income and on foreign income if remitted to Malta (remittance basis).
No inheritance, estate, or wealth taxes.
Extensive network of double taxation treaties.
Straightforward company incorporation and access to EU markets.
Tax applies only to income arising in Malta or foreign income remitted to Malta.

What’s New in 2025?

The program has recently undergone important upgrades, making it more attractive for globally mobile families. These 2025 changes improve processing speed, reduce costs, and add flexibility for property investors.

Key updates include:

Faster Access: Applicants now receive a 1-year residence card immediately after submitting their file and paying €15,000.
Flat Contribution: A simplified €37,000 contribution, regardless of property route.
Flexible Leasing: Buyers may rent out their property from day one; tenants can sublet after 5 years.
Lower Family Fees: Adult dependent fee increased to €7,500.
Tighter Oversight: All agents now licensed under Residency Malta Agency for added integrity.

Is Malta PRP Right for You?

For those seeking a flexible, secure and EU-aligned residency route, Malta’s PRP is one of the world’s strongest RBI programs. With 2025’s enhancements, the program offers faster access, better value, and long-term peace of mind.

Whether you’re future-proofing your family, expanding your options, or building a second base in Europe, Malta is a move worth considering.

DMC Global’s Approach

At DMC Global, we believe that securing a second residency isn’t just about immigration, it’s a strategic decision to enhance mobility, protect your legacy, and access global opportunities with confidence.

We provide end-to-end guidance on Malta’s Residency by Investment Program, from pre-qualification and document strategy to application submission and post-approval residency support. Our personalized approach ensures every step aligns with your long-term wealth and lifestyle goals.

Ready to Secure Your European Base?

Whether you’re planning ahead for your family, seeking seamless Schengen access, or looking to diversify your residency portfolio, Malta offers a reliable, EU-backed solution.

Contact DMC Global today for a private consultation and discover how we can help you build a future without borders.