Step-by-Step MPRP Application Guide: How to Secure Malta Permanent Residence
Imagine starting a new life on a peaceful island in the heart of Europe, a place that combines safety, sunshine, and easy access across the Schengen Zone. The Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) makes this possible for families, professionals, and investors who want a long-term home in Europe.
The process usually takes about four to six months, and thanks to new reforms, you can move to Malta almost right away with a one-year temporary residence card. This helps families settle in quickly while the full application is still being processed.
Why Malta?
Malta is one of the most attractive countries in Europe for people who want both stability and a great lifestyle.
• Safe and stable: The country is a full member of the EU and Schengen Zone with a strong economy and reliable governance.
• English-speaking: English is an official language, so communication is easy.
• Mediterranean lifestyle: Warm weather, friendly people, and a relaxed pace of life make Malta ideal for families and professionals.
• Great location: You can travel freely within 26 European countries thanks to Malta’s Schengen membership.
Who Can Apply?
The programme has clear eligibility rules. You can apply if you meet these main conditions:
• Nationality: You are not a citizen of the EU, EEA, or Switzerland.
• Background: You and your dependents have a clean criminal record.
• Financial means:
You own assets worth at least €500,000, including €150,000 in financial assets,
OR
You own assets worth €650,000, including €75,000 in financial assets.
• Family members: You can include your spouse, unmarried children under 29, and dependent parents or grandparents.
Meeting these requirements means you are ready to start the process with confidence.
Step-by-Step Application Process
1. Preliminary Due Diligence
This first stage checks that you meet all programme rules. Your licensed agent reviews your background, identity, and finances to make sure everything is in order.
Doing this early helps avoid problems later in the process.
2. Document Collection and Preparation
Your licensed agent helps you gather all the documents you need, such as passports, proof of income, and property details. Some of these documents must be translated into English and certified by a notary.
Making sure everything is correct and complete helps the process move faster and prevents unnecessary back-and-forth later on.
3. Application Submission and First Payment
When all documents are ready, your agent submits the application to the Residency Malta Agency and pays a €15,000 non-refundable fee.
At this stage, you can also apply for the one-year temporary residence card. This means you and your family can move to Malta and start your new life while waiting for the full approval. Once your full application is submitted and approved, the temporary card is replaced by a permanent residence card, renewable every 5 years.
4. Agency Checks and Approval in Principle
The Agency reviews your full application through a detailed due diligence process. They look at background information, financial details, and security checks.
If everything is in order, you will receive an Approval in Principle Letter, which confirms that your application has been accepted.
5. Post-Approval Requirements
After receiving approval, you must complete the investment steps:
• Administrative fee: Pay the remaining €45,000, plus €7,500 for each adult dependent (except your spouse).
• Government contribution: Pay €37,000 within eight months from approval.
• Donation: Give €2,000 to a registered Maltese NGO.
• Health insurance: Get full coverage for Malta and other Schengen countries.
• Property investment:
Buy a property for at least €375,000, or
Rent a property for at least €14,000 per year for five years.
You can also earn income from your property. Homeowners can rent out their homes when not in Malta, and tenants can sublet after five years with the landlord’s permission.
6. Biometric Data and Residence Cards
Once all payments and investments are completed, you travel to Malta to give your biometric data (fingerprints and photo).
The residence card is then printed and valid for five years. It can be renewed for another five years without any issue.
7. Annual Reviews for the First Five Years
During the first five years, the Residency Malta Agency checks that all requirements are still being met, such as property ownership, financial standing, and insurance coverage.
With the right guidance, this review process stays simple and stress-free, giving you peace of mind that your status remains in good standing.
How Long It Takes?
The whole process usually takes a few months, but the exact timing can change depending on how quickly documents are prepared and reviewed. Most applicants complete all the main steps within four to six months following the submission of the complete application.
Having a licensed agent to guide you can make things smoother and help avoid unnecessary delays.
Tips for a Smooth Process
• Be organised: Prepare all documents early and check that they are complete.
• Respect deadlines: Make payments and investments within the required timeframes.
• Work with professionals: A licensed agent like DZ Advisory can guide you through each step and make the process simpler.
Why Work with DZ Advisory?
With over ten years of experience, DZ Advisory has helped hundreds of families and investors successfully settle in Malta.
Our team provides more than just form-filling, as we guide clients through every part of the journey, including tax, property, and financial planning. We focus on professionalism, privacy, and clear communication to make your relocation easy and stress-free.
Start Your Journey
Malta offers everything you need for a secure and balanced life a safe EU home, great weather, and endless opportunities. With a clear process and the right support, permanent residence is within reach.
Contact DZ Advisory today to start your Malta Permanent Residence Programme application with trusted experts by your side. We’ll take care of the details so you can focus on your new life in Malta.
