An IMGW News Report
Malta has introduced substantial reforms to its Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP), aiming to increase its attractiveness to international investors while improving accessibility, particularly for families. These changes focus on reducing costs, enhancing flexibility, and streamlining the application process.
A central update is the introduction of a renewable one-year temporary residence card, issued immediately upon application submission. This allows applicants and their families to relocate to Malta before securing full permanent residency, following the payment of a €15,000 portion of the administration fee and the completion of initial due diligence. This reform significantly reduces waiting times and offers greater certainty for relocating families.
Further adjustments to the programme benefit property investors. Applicants who purchase qualifying real estate can now lease their properties immediately, bypassing the previous waiting period. This change aligns Malta with other European residency programmes, such as those in Greece and Cyprus, where property monetisation is permitted from day one. Additionally, rental applicants now enjoy the benefit of subletting rights after five years, further increasing the programme’s appeal to long-term investors.
The government has also revised the fee structure, making it more affordable for families. The contribution amount is now €37,000 for all applicants, regardless of whether they purchase or rent property. This marks a significant reduction for rental applicants, who previously paid €60,000. Furthermore, the fees for minor children and spouses have been waived, while adult dependants face a reduced contribution of €7,500.
Licensing of MPRP agents has been centralised under the Residency Malta Agency (RMA), streamlining compliance and oversight. These changes reflect Malta’s commitment to enhancing its investment migration framework and maintaining its competitiveness within the European market.
With these reforms, Malta has positioned itself as a more flexible and cost-effective destination for long-term residence in Europe, while laying the groundwork for potential future developments in the programme.
IMGW News will provide further updates on this story in the coming days.
