The Malta Nomad Residence Permit launched in June 2021 has proven to be a very successful initiative to attract non-European digital nomads to reside and work from Malta. In a press conference addressed by the Parliamentary Secretary for Citizenship and Communities it was announced that to date, the Residency Malta Agency has received over 180 applications with an average of one application every working day. The Agency is also expected to receive more applications when travel restrictions are eased globally. The scheme has attracted a number of digital nomads working in Malta who embrace a new remote model of working and living. Apart from a robust infrastructure Malta also offers a dynamic lifestyle, good weather and a friendly society and community. In addition, Malta’s official language is English, making the transition to Malta seamless.
The majority of applicants applying for the Malta Nomad Residence Permit hail from the United Kingdom and the United States with an average income of around €60,000. Most of the applicants are male with an average age of 27 years. Most of the digital nomads applying for this programme are employed with foreign entities and tend to work in management, Information Technology, or marketing.
The Malta Nomad Residence Permit Requirements
For a non-EU national to be eligible to apply for the Malta Nomad Residence Permit, one needs to prove a gross monthly income of €2,700. The applicant must also submit a letter of intent giving enough evidence that he/she can work from Malta by using technological means. To qualify, applicants must either be employed with a company registered outside of Malta or conduct business activities for a company registered outside of Malta of which the applicant is a shareholder or partner, or else offer freelance services to clients whose permanent establishments are in a foreign country.
Digital nomads may also bring their family members including one’s spouse and financially dependent children.
The Fund in which proceeds from Malta’s Citizenship by direct investment are directed is the National Development and Social Fund (NDSF). The NDSF is a government agency which was established in 2015 by the previous Individual Investor Programme Regulations under the Malta Citizenship Act (Chapter 188).
Malta Citizenship by Investment Fund: The Malta National Development and Social Fund (NDSF)
As per Article 13 of the IIP Regulations the NDSF shall received 20% out of the contributions received by the Malta Individual Investment Programme Agency (MIIPA). This Government Agency has now been substituted by Komunita Malta Agency. The NDSF is administered by a Board of Governors who shall be appointed by the Cabinet of Ministers and is responsible for ensuring the highest level of governance of he Fund. The Board of Governors is responsible for setting the investment strategy of the NDSF and for this purpose the fund has allocated three main portfolios, namely the Directed Portfolio, the Discretionary Portfolio and the Unallocated Portfolio. The Discretionary Portfolio holds 30% of all funds received from Komunita Malta. The NDSF has given an investment, management, custody and administration mandate to the Central Bank of Malta to manage this portfolio on a discretionary basis. The Directed Portfolio holds 70% of all funds received from Komunita Malta which are used for social and development purposes. Any funds which are not allocate to either the Directed or Discretionary Portfolio are retained in an Unallocated Portfolio. The Fund is required to publish annual audited accounts and an annual report which are tabled in Parliament and also subject to scrutiny by the National Audit Office.
The aim of the Malta Citizenship by Investment Fund
The main aim of the citizenship fund is to contribute towards supporting major projects and initiatives of national importance and public interest such as education, infrastructure, heritage, research and innovation, justice, the rule of law, sports, employment, and public health. The vision of the fund is to contribute towards the growth of the country’s sovereign wealth by adhering to the highest standards of accountability and transparency.
NDSF assistance during Covid-19
During Covid the Maltese Government has diverted 80% of the funds’ income to public finances to cushion the Covid-19 expenses. This temporary measure meant less funds to the NFSD. Under normal circumstances only 30% from the citizenship by investment programme is allocated to public finances with 70% going to the NSDF. Malta’s Prime Minister described the NDSF as a war-chest during the pandemic. During 2020, the NDSF received €27.8 million from Komunita Malta Agency, so that the total amount of proceeds received from inception to-date amounts to €599.8 million. In 2019, NDSF received €105.9 million. The difference is the result of the fact that in 2020, the ratio of how funds are distributed was changed in order to reflect the exigencies of the global health pandemic.
In order to protect the economy, the Maltese Government guaranteed an €800 monthly wage supplement for employees which the employer had to bolster with another €400. This means that for those employees on a minimum wage the government sponsored 90% of their salary. This measure covered over 60,000 workers, whilst those who lost their job were entitled to a temporary salary paid by the government of €800 euro per month for full timers and €500 per month for part timers. A benefit of €800 per month (€500 in case of part-timers) was also paid to one of the parents (including single parents) who took additional unpaid leave to take care of children whilst schools remained closed, when both parents work in the private sector.
The government had also postponed all tax dues for affected companies to ensure they would have enough liquidity. Banks offered moratoria on existing loans and the NDSF provided the funds so that the Malta Development Bank could guarantee capital loans to affected firms.
Malta Citizenship by Investment Fund: The Projects
The Maltese Government has used funds from the NDSF to improve Malta’s healthcare, social and sport projects and to protect Malta’s cultural heritage.
NDSF assistance for social projects
Since the fund was set up, €109 million have been allocated to social projects, €66 million of them pledged to social housing developments. The fund has also invested around €33 million towards various social projects including co-funding to local voluntary organisations. Funds were also allocated to help those who can’t get life insurance (owing to a past medical condition) to get a home loan. The NDSF has also allocated €1.5 million to Caritas for the charity organisation to invest in a new property assisting people in need.
NDSF assistance for healthcare projects
The Maltese Government has used funds from the NDSF to improve Malta’s healthcare. In 2021 a new cardiac suite was inaugurated with a €1 million euro investment. The government has also diverted €8 million from the fund to Hospice Malta for the completion of a palliative care complex project which will offer day therapy and outpatients clinic for cancer patients who can no longer live at home whilst remaining surrounded by their loved ones. Another significant investment in this area was a €5 million deal to build apartments in London for cancer patients receiving medical treatment there.
NDSF assistance for sport projects
Funds from the NDSF are also used to support sports. In 2021, €5 million were allocated to train Team Malta ahead of the next edition of the Small Nations Games which will also be hosted in Malta in 2023. Another €20 million originating from the NDSF will be allocated to build Malta’s first professional car racetrack.
NDSF assistance for cultural projects
Funds from the NDSF are also used to protect Malta’s cultural heritage. Various monuments and churches in need of restoration benefit from funds originating from the NDSF. The fund will also be using income from the NDSF to buy property which is rented out to band clubs from private owners. This is in line with the NDSF mission to contribute towards, promote and support major projects that are of national importance. When properties are acquired, such premises will be transferred to the respective band clubs, under a new title of long lease.
NDSF acquisition of Government Stocks, Investments and Banks
The NDSF has acquired a 49% stake in a local bank in Malta (Lombard Bank0 from Cyprus Popular Bank Public Co Ltd, a company who was placed in resolution, kicking off a process to dispose of certain assets including its shareholding in Lombard Bank Malta. The main aim for the acquisition on the part of the NDSF was to protect Maltese bank account holders. The NDSF has also purchased shares of Bank of Valletta. This equity investment (2.91% shareholding) by the NDSF in Malta’s largest investment grade-rated institution was considered by the Board of Governors to yield a relatively high return to the Fund in the current market environment, which will in turn contribute to the Fund’s sustained long-term growth for the benefit of future generations. In 2020, the NDSF has also purchases up to €104.8 million worth of government stocks and €57.5 million worth of treasury bills. It also invested €1.7 million in local equities and €1.1 million in corporate bonds.
Dr Priscilla Mifsud Parker, the Lead Immigration Lawyer of ACC Immigration will be participating in the International Bar Association (IBA) Global Immigration Virtual Conference which will be held on the 18th and 19th November.
International Bar Association
The International Bar Association (IBA), established in 1947 is the foremost organisation for international legal practitioners, bar associations and law societies. The association is made up of more than 80,000 lawyers from most of the world’s leading law firms and 190 bar associations spanning more than 170 countries.
Global Immigration Conference
The Global Immigration Conference will provide an update on the complexities of the post-pandemic global immigration landscape with particular reference to investor migration programmes. Discussions will focus on any new immigration policies aimed attracting talent and protecting resident labour.
Dr Priscilla Mifsud Parker will be discussing how investment migration programmes can be used to help countries recover from the Covid-19 pandemic. Malta’s Residency and Citizenship by Investment Programmes will be explained and an overview of how funds from these initiatives are distributed will be presented.
She will also be joined by other panellists from Portugal, Saint Kitts & Nevis, Canada, Australia, Bulgaria and the UK.
Malta’s Finance Minister announced that the Malta Residency Agency together with the state agency Malta Enterprise, will be launching a new residence programme. The new programme is aimed at entrepreneurs who will use Malta as their base and thus those who fulfil the requirements of such a programme will be allowed to reside in Malta and contribute to the country. Entrepreneurs looking to relocate and legally establish their residence in Malta under the start-up programme should have a successful record of entrepreneurial history together with a concrete business plan and objective.
The concept of a start-up visa complements the newly launched Malta Nomad Residence Permit which is attracting digital nomads from all over the world to reside in Malta whilst managing their business or continuing their foreign employment.
Malta Start-Up Residence Permit Benefits
The benefits for entrepreneurs having Malta as their primary base are endless and these include a good English-speaking workforce, excellent healthcare facilities and a warm climate all year round. Maltese entrepreneurs will also benefit from having investors with a different mind-set and thus having an opportunity to interact with more experienced entrepreneurs from all over the world.
Blue Med Hub Initiative – Malta
The finance minister has also announced that a Blue Med Hub is expected to start operating from Malta, offering numerous opportunities for start-ups and small and medium enterprises to enable them to start offering their services from Malta. The initial plan is that the hub will collaborate with entities located in the Middle East and Africa region. The setting up of the Blue Med Hub will be in the hands of various experts who work in the SMEs and start-ups sector.
The official launch and more details about this programme will be communicated in the coming weeks once the Financial Budget for 2022 starts being implemented.
What is the Schengen Area?
The Schengen Area is an area made up of 26 European countries who decided to abolish internal border controls and strengthen common external borders. The Schengen Area has a common visa policy and functions as one jurisdiction for travel purposes. Common rules and procedures are applied to border controls and short stay visas. Simultaneously, cooperation and coordination between Police services and judicial authorities guarantee security, supported by the Schengen Information System (SIS) which is a common database shared by countries forming part of the Schengen Area.
Schengen Area and the EU
The Schengen Area is distinct from the European Union (EU) and in fact, there are countries who are part of the EU but not in the Schengen Area and there are countries which are not members of the EU but part of the Schengen Area.
List of the Schengen Countries
Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and Lichtenstein are members of the Schengen Area but not members of the European Union. On the other hand, Ireland, Romania, Bulgaria, Croatia and Cyprus are EU members but not yet part of the Schengen Area.
Schengen Countries in alphabetical order
The 26 Schengen countries in alphabetical order are Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.
Is Malta in the Schengen Area?
Yes, Malta is in the Schengen Area. Malta joined the Schengen Area in 2007, three years after joining the European Union in 2004. On signing the Schengen Agreement, Maltese citizens or residents holding a Maltese residency card became no longer subject to border checks within the Schengen Area. Malta’s entry into the Schengen Area thus facilitated travel for citizens and residents of Malta especially coupled with the fact that most countries in the Schengen Area also adopted the Euro currency.
In a nutshell, the Schengen Area can be described as an area made up of 26 European countries which follow common rules in terms of police cooperation, strengthening of external borders and removing internal borders thus facilitating freedom of movement for its citizens and residents.
Malta Central Visa Unit
The Government entity in Malta responsible for overseeing the Schengen Code and the national visa policies is the Central Visa Unit. The responsibility of issuing visas is shared also with the Maltese Embassies and Consulates outside of Malta. There are mainly 2 categories of visas which Malta issues:
- Schengen Visa: This visa, also known as a short stay visa, is issued for a period not exceeding 90 days and is regulated by the EU’s common provisions.
- National Type D Visa: This visa, also known as long stay visa, is issued for a period exceeding 90 days but not more than 365 days.
The Visa code establishes the conditions and procedure for issuing a short stay visa. Thus, any visa application to enter Malta for a short stay must conform with all the requirements in the Visa Code.
The Malta Permanent Residence Programme & Schengen Access
By virtue of the Schengen Agreement, the rights granted to nationals of countries within the Schengen Area are also extended to residents holding a visa or a residence card issued by a Schengen member state. Thus, a valid residence permit together with a travel document can be a substitute for a visa and a third country national presenting his own passport together with a Schengen issued residence permit is allowed to enter the Schengen zone for 90 days in a 180-day period.
The benefits of holding a Maltese residence card thus can be as simple as travelling to France for holidays with one’s family without the need of applying for a visa, paying fees, and waiting for the bureaucratic process to be completed. The benefits of a residence permit issued by a Schengen country are endless and significantly enhance one’s ability to move in the Schengen Area for any tourist or business-related travel.
Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) – For Non-EU Nationals
Non-EU nationals can benefit from Malta’s Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) which is a residence by investment programme granting a Schengen Residence card and thus giving the ability of visa-free travel within the Schengen Area. The MPRP is a residence programme based on an investment in property and a donation to the Government of Malta and to charity. It grants permanent residence within 4-6 months of submitting an application. Beneficiaries of such a programme enjoy the right to reside permanently in Malta and enjoy visa-free travel within the Schengen Area for 90 out of 180 days. Learn more about the benefits of the MPRP.
The main requirements include:
• Making a non-refundable contribution to the Government of €68,000 if purchasing real estate or €98,000 if renting a property, and
• Making a non-refundable donation of €2,000 to a charitable organisation, and
• Renting or Purchasing a property in Malta.
Applications under the MPRP are only to be submitted through a licenced agent. Our firm holds licence number AKM-ACCA-22 and can assist applicants to successfully apply for permanent residence under the MPRP.
The Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) is a route to obtain residence for non-EU nationals wishing to reside in Malta or to travel within the Schengen Area without the requirement of a visa. The MPRP is a residence by investment programme which is based on three main requirements, which are: an investment in property, a government contribution and a donation to a Maltese registered charity or NGO. The main benefit of the MPRP is that the programme is a straightforward one with applications processed within 4 to 6 months as long as the applicant satisfies all the eligibility requirements.
Which legislation regulates the MPRP?
The Malta Permanent Residence Programme was launched by means of Legal Notice 121 of 2021. This legislation lists down the eligibility criteria and requirements for non-EU nationals to obtain residence in Malta through the MPRP.
Is The Malta Permanent Residence Programme open only for non-EU nationals?
The MPRP is only available to Non-EU nationals. Currently the Malta residency agency is not accepting applications from nationals of Afghanistan, North Korea, Iran, Democratic Republic of Congo, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Yemen and Venezuela.
Will holders of MPRP be allowed to travel visa-free in the Schengen Area?
Beneficiaries of the MPRP may travel Visa-free to Schengen countries, and for a maximum period of 90 days within a 180-day period. The 26 Schengen countries are Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.
Do I need to satisfy all the investment requirements under the Malta Permanent Residence Programme?
The applicant must satisfy all the investment requirements and cannot choose only one of them. The applicant must thus: 1) invest in property, 2) pay a government contribution and 3) give a donation to charity or an NGO.
How much is an applicant required to invest in property?
An applicant is only required to invest in property once a letter of approval is issued. This is different from the residence programmes of Portugal and Greece whereby the applicant is not able to submit an application without first purchasing a property.
In Malta, the applicant is required to either rent or purchase a property once the application is approved.
The applicant is required to rent a property for a minimum of €12,000 annually in Malta or €10,000 in the South of Malta or Gozo.
If the applicant opts to purchasing a property, he is required to purchase a property for a minimum of €350,000 in Malta or €300,000 in the South of Malta or Gozo.
How much is an applicant requited to contribute to the Government of Malta?
The Government contribution depends on whether an applicant decides to purchase or rent a property in Malta.
If the applicant decides to rent a property, the direct contribution and administration fee is of €98,000.
If the applicant decides to purchase a property, the direct contribution and administration fee is of €68,000.
At what stage is the applicant required to pay the Government Contribution and Administration Fee?
The applicant is only required to pay the €68,000 (purchase) or €98,000 (rent) once the letter of approval is issued. From this only €10,000 is to be paid within one month from the submission of the application.
Is the applicant required to pay additional fee for the spouse and children?
The Government Contribution and Administration fee of €68,000 (purchase) or €98,000 (rent) covers the main applicant, the spouse and their children. The applicant may also add the parents and/or grandparents at an additional government contribution of €7,500.
How much is an applicant required to donate to a charity organisation?
Once the letter of approval is issued, the applicant is required to donate €2,000 to a local registered philanthropic, cultural, sport, scientific, animal welfare or artistic non-governmental organisation or society registered with the Commissioner for Voluntary Organisations, or as otherwise approved by the Agency.
Which family members are eligible to be added in the same application of the Main Applicant?
The main applicant may include in the same application, the spouse, financially dependent and unmarried children (no age limits) and parents/grandparents of the applicant and/or of the spouse who are also economically dependent on the main applicant.
Would a child of the main applicant be entitled to free education in Malta?
Under the MPRP, a minor is not entitled to free education. However, if the main applicant or spouse acquires a work permit, the children would be entitled to free primary and secondary education in state schools.
Is the permanent residence permit valid for life?
The residence certificate issued under the MPRP is valid for life as long as all the programme obligations are adhered to. The residence card is valid for 5 years and renewed every 5 years.
Can the applicant first rent and then buy a property?
An applicant may opt to rent a property and then replace it with a purchased property. During the first 5 years the applicant is however not allowed to first purchase, and then rent a property.
For how long is the applicant required to keep the property in Malta?
The applicant is required to hold the qualifying rented or purchased property for at least five years during which it cannot be rented out to other persons. After the five-year period, the applicant is still required to have a property rented or purchased in Malta to retain the residence card.
Is the applicant required to proof that he is economically self-sufficient?
The applicant is required to show evidence that he is in possession of €500,000 out of which €150,000 should be in the form of financial assets. This amount does not change according to the number of persons included in the application.
Liquid assets can be stocks, bonds, funds and bank deposits. Cryptocurrency does not qualify as financial assets.
For how long is the Applicant required to be in compliance with the economic self sufficiency requirement?
Monitoring of beneficiary’s €500,000 in assets, out of which a minimum of €150,000 need to be financial assets will be made yearly for the first 5 years.
Is the applicant required to have a Health Insurance Policy?
Under the MPRP, a health insurance policy is required. The health insurance should cover all beneficiaries for a minimum of €30,000 per annum and covering full expenses for Malta.
Is an applicant required to be in Malta to start the application?
The applicant is not required to be in Malta to submit an application, since an application can only be submitted by an Accredited Agent.
How can ACC Immigration Assist?
We are a licenced firm by Agenzija Komunita Malta, accredited to submit permanent residence applications on behalf of applicants. ACC holds licence number AKM-ACCA-22.
Dr Priscilla Mifsud-Parker has been re-elected for another year as the Chair of the Malta branch of STEP (Society of Trust & Estate Practitioners), a private client professional organisation. Prior to this role, Dr Priscilla served as a Secretary in the STEP Malta Branch Committee.
At ACC Advisors, Dr Mifsud Parker heads up the Corporate, Trusts & Fintech as well as the Families & Wealth practice within the firm. In this capacity, she specialises in trusts and estate planning, wealth and business structuring for high net-worth individuals, families, financial institutions as well as multinationals.
About STEP Worldwide
STEP members worldwide help families plan for their futures, from drafting wills to issues surrounding international families, protection of the vulnerable, family businesses and philanthropic giving. Full STEP members, known as TEPs, are internationally recognised as experts in their field, with proven qualifications and experience.
The 2021 Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Index published by the Financial Times provides a comprehensive analysis of various citizenship programmes worldwide. The fifth edition of the CBI Index issued in 2021 ranks Malta first under the ‘Freedom of Movement’ pillar. Malta scored 10 out of a maximum of 10 points under this pillar confirming Malta’s passport as one of the best travel documents to hold. When obtaining Maltese citizenship through naturalisation, descent or through investment one gets to travel to 186 countries without a visa or visa on arrival, thus avoiding lengthy and bureaucratic visa procedures.
Freedom of Movement Index
Freedom of movement between countries is of utmost importance to any individual or family seeking a second or alternative citizenship. This applies irrespective of whether the individual wishes to travel for business purposes, to visit family or for leisure. In the CBI index of 2021, the Freedom of
Movement Pillar measures the country’s citizenship on the basis of three factors:
- The number of countries which a passport allows travel to without restrictions
- The number of prime business hubs to which it provides access and
- The degree to which a given citizenship provides settlement rights in other nations.
When conducting this research, emphasis was placed on the total number of countries that may be visited without a visa or a country which gives a visa on arrival since neither requires the receipt of a visa in advance of travel. As business travel is of paramount importance for prospective global citizens, a passport’s ability to provide access to the world’s leading economic and financial centres was also evaluated.
Right to Settle & Travel
Malta is a member of the European Union and the Schengen Area. Therefore, any Maltese citizen can travel, work and reside freely in any European Union member state. Being a European Union country, Malta offers its citizens extensive settlement rights and travel opportunities. The EU Freedom of movement is very vast in scope and includes the free movement of persons, goods, capital and services.
Malta Visa-Free Countries
The below is a comprehensive list of visa-free or visa on arrival countries for Maltese passport holders:
1. Albania
2. American Samoa
3. Andorra
4. Anguilla
5. Antigua and Barbuda
6. Argentina
7. Armenia
8. Aruba
9. Australia
10. Austria
11. Azerbaijan (e-visa)
12. Bahamas
13. Bahrain (e-visa)
14. Bangladesh (visa on arrival)
15. Barbados
16. Belarus
17. Belgium
18. Belize
19. Benin (e-visa)
20. Bolivia (visa on arrival)
21. Bosnia and Herzegovina
22. Botswana
23. Brazil
24. Brunei
25. Bulgaria
26. Burkina Faso (visa on arrival)
27. Cambodia (e-visa)
28. Canada
29. Cape Verde
30. Chile
31. Colombia
32. Comoros (visa on arrival)
33. Costa Rica
34. Cote D’ Ivoire (e-visa)
35. Croatia
36. Cyprus
37. Czech Republic
38. Denmark
39. Djibouti (e-visa)
40. Dominica
41. Dominican Republic
42. Ecuador
43. Egypt (visa on arrival)
44. El Salvador
45. Estonia
46. Eswatini
47. Ethiopia (e-visa)
48. Fiji
49. Finland
50. France
51. Gabon (e-visa)
52. Gambia
53. Georgia
54. Germany
55. Greece
56. Grenada
57. Guatemala
58. Guinea (e-visa)
59. Guinea-Bissau (visa on arrival)
60. Haiti
61. Honduras
62. Hungary
63. Iceland
64. India (e-visa)
65. Indonesia
66. Iran (visa on arrival)
67. Ireland
68. Israel
69. Italy
70. Jamaica
71. Japan
72. Jordan
73. Kazakhstan
74. Kenya
75. Kiribati
76. South Korea
77. Kuwait (visa on arrival)
78. Kyrgyzstan
79. Laos (visa on arrival)
80. Latvia
81. Lebanon (visa on arrival)
82. Lesotho
83. Liechtenstein
84. Lithuania
85. Luxembourg
86. Madagascar (visa on arrival)
87. Malawi (visa on arrival)
88. Malaysia
89. Maldives (visa on arrival)
90. Marshall Islands
91. Mauritania (visa on arrival)
92. Mauritius
93. Mexico
94. Micronesia
95. Moldova
96. Monaco
97. Mongolia (visa on arrival)
98. Montenegro
99. Morocco
100. Mozambique (visa on arrival)
101. Myanmar (e-visa)
102. Nepal (visa on arrival)
103. Netherlands
104. New Zealand
105. Nicaragua
106. North Macedonia
107. Norway
108. Oman (e-visa)
109. Pakistan
110. Palau
111. Panama
112. Papua New Guinea (e-visa)
113. Paraguay
114. Peru
115. Philippines
116. Poland
117. Portugal
118. Qatar
119. Romania
120. Russia (e-visa)
121. Rwanda (visa on arrival)
122. Saint Kitts & Nevis
123. Saint Lucia
124. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
125. Samoa
126. San Marino
127. San Tome and Principe
128. Saudi Arabia (visa on arrival)
129. Senegal
130. Serbia
131. Seychelles
132. Sierra Leone (visa on arrival)
133. Singapore
134. Slovakia
135. Slovenia
136. Solomon Islands
137. Somalia (visa on arrival)
138. South Africa
139. South Sudan (e-visa)
140. Spain
141. Sri Lanka (e-visa)
142. Suriname
143. Sweden
144. Switzerland
145. Tajikistan
146. Tanzania
147. Thailand (visa on arrival)
148. Timor-Leste
149. Togo (visa on arrival)
150. Tonga
151. Trinidad and Tobago
152. Tunisia
153. Turkey
154. Tuvalu
155. Uganda
156. Ukraine
157. United Arab Emirates
158. United Kingdom
159. United Stated of America
160. Uruguay
161. Uzbekistan
162. Vanuatu
163. Vatican City
164. Venezuela
165. Vietnam (e-visa)
166. Yemen
167. Zambia
168. Zimbabwe
How to Obtain Maltese Citizenship through Investment?
The granting of Maltese citizenship by investment is regulated by Legal Notice 437 of 2020 which lays down the eligibility criteria and requirements of these regulations. Under these regulations an applicant may apply for citizenship for himself, the spouse, children up to the age of 28 and financially dependent parents and grandparents of the applicant and the spouse over the age of 55 years.
Under these regulations, an applicant can apply for Maltese citizenship after three years or by an exceptional investment after 1 year of residency when satisfying the following requirements:
- Making an exceptional contribution of €600,000 when the application is submitted after 36 months of residence or €750,000 when the application is submitted after 12 months of residence, and
- Making an investment in property (rental or purchase), and
- Donating €10,000 to a Maltese charity organisation or NGO.
How Can We Assist?
As a Maltese immigration firm, we are accredited and hold licence number AKM-ACCA-22. We guide applicants interested in obtaining Maltese citizenship through the various routes. Over the last 20 years our immigration team has successfully assisted a number of individuals and families to acquire citizenship in Malta and benefit from the numerous advantages it offers.
Malta, one of the safest countries in the world is attracting a number of South African nationals who are relocating due to various reasons. With the rise of Covid cases, the increment of travel restrictions for South African passport holders, and the lack of safety in general, a number of South African nationals are applying for Maltese residency or citizenship as a Plan B to be able to relocate if the situation continues to deteriorate.
In this publication, we explain why Malta is the best option for South Africans wishing to, not only be granted the right to live in Europe, but also access all European financial markets while offering their children a future filled with opportunities and choices.
1. Malta is Safe and Secure
An increase in crime rates is most often directly attributable to lack of employment opportunities in a country. Malta boasts of one of the lowest unemployment rates in Europe, with an unemployment rate of only 3.6% in 2021, and finding employment in Malta is quite relatively easy.
For the fourth consecutive year, in 2021 crime rates in Malta decreased by 16% which shows that Malta is a safe country to relocate to. Malta’s crime rate, at 31 instances of crime per 1,000 inhabitants largely culminates above the EU’s average 59 instances per 1,000 inhabitants. Indeed, crime levels in Malta are exceptionally low in comparison with most EU countries making it the second safest country in the world and first in the EU according to a study carried out by the AfrAsia Bank Global Wealth Migration Review. These indexes and statistics reflect a number of factors such as freedom of the press, equality in terms of gender, multi-culturalism, respect to various cultures and religions and minimal exposure to natural disasters. As a full member of the European Union, Malta is recognized as a safe place where immigrants feel part of a welcoming community.
2. Malta is an English Speaking Country
Malta, being part of the Commonwealth, is the only country in the Schengen area with English as its official language. Being an official language of Malta, English is widely spoken and is considered to be the everyday life language of most Maltese residence, making the shift to Malta, for those wishing to relocate, very smooth and free of language obstacles.
For children and university students particularly, it allows them to continue their education path with no interruption caused by any language barrier. In addition, Malta hosts a number of English schools attracting students from all over the world.
3. Visa Free Travel Destinations for Maltese Citizens
These two reasons, combined with the 186 visa-free destinations you can access as a Maltese passport holder (including the US, Canada and the UK) places Malta as a top-notch choice for South Africans, wishing to offer their families a brighter future filled with opportunities, while protecting their personal and commercial interests.
How can South African Nationals Obtain Maltese Residency or Citizenship?
It doesn’t come as a surprise that the South African community in Malta is growing. We will now explain how a South African national can apply for citizenship or residency in Malta.
Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP)
The Malta Permanent Residence Programme is the most popular residence programmes with South African nationals based on the fact that this gives permanent residence which is valid for life. The MPRP was launched in 2021 and it grants permanent residence if an applicant satisfies the following requirements:
- A contribution of either €68,000 or €98,000 which is to be paid upon approval depending on whether the applicant rents or purchases property in Malta.
- An investment in property (rental or purchase), and
- A donation of €2,000 to a Maltese charity organisation or NGO.
Malta Global Residence Programme (GRP) for South Africans
The Malta Global Residence Programme on the other hand grants a special tax status by virtue of which an applicant can apply for a Maltese residence card. Since 2013, the GRP has been seeking expatriates seeking an alternative tax residence jurisdiction in the European Union.
The applicant must also satisfy 3 requirements including:
- A one-time non-refundable fee of €6,000
- An investment in property (rental or purchase), and
- A minimum annual tax payment of €15,000
Malta Citizenship by Investment for South African Nationals
The Granting of Maltese Citizenship for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment is regulated by Legal Notice 437 of 2020. Under these regulations, investors can apply for Maltese citizenship after three years or by an exceptional investment after 1 year of residency.
Under these regulations, an applicant may apply for Maltese citizenship through investment if he satisfies the following requirements:
- An exceptional contribution of €600,000 when the application is submitted after 36 months of residence or €750,000 when the application is submitted after 12 months of residence, and
- An investment in property (rental or purchase), and
- A donation of €10,000 to a Maltese charity organisation or NGO.
How Can We Assist?
ACC Immigration is licenced by Agenzija Komunita Malta to submit applications on behalf of interested applicants and holds licence number AKM-ACCA-22.
Acquiring Maltese citizenship by investment is possible through amendments done to the Maltese Citizenship Act and Legal Notice 437 of 2020. In this article we’ll answer the most frequently asked questions on the Granting of Maltese Citizenship for Exceptional Services Regulations.
What is the Legal Basis for the Malta Citizenship by Direct Investment Regulations?
The Granting of Citizenship for Exceptional Services Regulations (SL 188.06) lists down the eligibility criteria and requirements to apply for citizenship through investment in Malta.
Is there any maximum number of applicants allowed under these Regulations?
The number of citizenship certificates to be granted under these regulations shall not exceed 400 yearly and a total of 1,500 for the whole duration of the citizenship regulations.
Can the Main applicant add family members in the Malta citizenship by investment application?
The Malta citizenship regulations allow the main applicant to include in an application the spouse, unmarried children of the main applicant and of the spouse who have not yet attained the age of twenty-nine (29) as well as economically dependent parents and grandparents of the applicants over the age of 55.
What are the main requirements needed to apply for Malta citizenship by investment?
- There are three main requirements an applicant must do when he is approved for Maltese citizenship:
- Purchase a residential property worth at least €700,000 or rent a property for a minimum annual rent of €16,000, which shall be kept for a minimum of five (5) years, and
- Donate a minimum of €10,000 to a registered and compliant philanthropic, cultural, sport, scientific, animal welfare or artistic NGO, and
Make a non-refundable direct investment of 600,000 when the application is submitted after 36 months of residence or €750,000 when the application is submitted after 12 months of residence. An additional direct investment of €50,000 is required for each additional dependant.
Is the applicant required to keep the qualifying investment for life?
The applicant is required to keep the qualifying purchased or rented property for at least five years from the date on the certificate of naturalisation.
When is the starting date for the residence period?
The residence period starts on the day when the Malta residence card is issued. All adult dependants who wish to apply for Maltese citizenship under these Regulations must hold a residence permit in Malta.
Are there any nationals of certain countries who are not eligible to apply?
Nationals or individuals with close links to Afghanistan, Congo, Iran, N Korea, Somalia, Sudan, South Sudan, Syria and Venezuela are ineligible to apply for Maltese citizenship under these Regulations.
Are Due Diligence Fees payable for all applicants?
Due diligence fees only apply for individuals over the age of 12. The due diligence fees payable are of €15,000 for the Main Applicant and €10,000 for each dependent included in the application.
Can an applicant add dependants after the submission of the application?
The application is final when the citizenship eligibility is submitted and the fees at that stage are duly paid. The applicant can only apply for Maltese citizenship to any new-born children at that stage.
At what stage must the applicant decide on which route to take?
The applicant should declare his intention whether he will opt for the 1 year or 3 year route when applying for the Malta residence permit.
Is the applicant required to take an Oath of Allegiance?
The applicant and all adult dependants are required to take an Oath of Allegiance to the Republic of Malta.
How can we assist?
ACC Immigration is licenced by Agenzija Komunita Malta to submit citizenship by investment applications on behalf of interested applicants and holds licence number AKM-ACCA-22