Thinking about a new life in Europe? Malta could be the perfect place. With great weather, low crime, and an English-speaking community, it’s easy to feel at home, and the Malta Permanent Residency Programme (MPRP) makes it simple to settle in.
From education to healthcare and property investment, here’s why more families, professionals, and retirees are choosing Malta as their long-term base.
Why Choose Malta?
Many Americans are retiring in Malta from the USA because of its year-round sunshine, affordable healthcare, and strong expat community. The country also has a rich history and beautiful architecture, creating a mix of relaxation and cuMalta isn’t just a holiday spot, it’s a great place to live, work, and raise a family. Here’s what makes it so attractive:
• Safe and secure: One of the safest countries in Europe, with low crime and good public order.
• Top education: Malta has excellent international schools like Verdala, QSI, and St. Edward’s College.
• Quality healthcare: Malta ranks among the best in Europe for both public and private healthcare services.
• English-speaking: English is an official language, used in schools, courts, and government offices.
• Affordable lifestyle: Living costs are lower than in many EU countries, especially for housing and schooling.
• Pro-business environment: Low tax rates and strong support for startups and international companies.
• Great location: Travel to London or Paris in just around 2-3 hours by plane, plus regular direct flights to all major European cities.
• Easy to settle: A warm Mediterranean climate, relaxed lifestyle, and friendly expat communities.
What is the Malta Permanent Residence Programme?
The MPRP grants permanent residency in Malta to individuals who invest in local property and make a financial contribution. The programme was updated in 2024 to reflect evolving regulatory standards, while maintaining its strong appeal to international applicants.
Main Benefits
• No language exam or minimum stay required
• 5-year residency card, renewable every 5 years
• Access to the Schengen Area
• No Maltese tax unless income is brought into Malta (remittance basis)
• Children under the age of 29 can be included as part of the application, provided that they are not married and financial dependants of the main applicant
• The applicant and his/her spouse can include financially dependant parents as part of the application
• No age restriction for the financially dependant parents of main applicant and his/her spouse included as part of the application
• Option to add additional family members after residency certificate has been issued
Approval usually takes 4–6 months
Case Study: Why a Family from Florida chose Malta
Meet the Raymonds: Jack (47), a tech entrepreneur; Emily (44), a design enthusiast; and their two children, aged 5 and 9. The family lived in Palm Beach, Florida, enjoying a warm, coastal lifestyle. But as their children got older, they started thinking more seriously about their future, especially when it came to education, long-term family planning, and expanding Jack’s business into Europe.
After comparing several Mediterranean countries, Malta quickly stood out. It offered a similar climate, but with stronger links to Europe and a smoother transition thanks to the shared language.
What made Malta the Right Choice?
● English-language environment: Since English is an official language in Malta, everything from schooling to legal matters is easy to navigate. The children can continue their education at international schools like QSI, Verdala, or St. Edward’s without needing to learn a new language.
●Top-tier education: The Raymonds wanted access to world-class private education and the option of European boarding schools in the future. Malta gave them both.
●Business opportunities in Europe: Jack saw Malta as the ideal base to grow his tech company. It’s close to major hubs like London or major European capitals, just a short 2 to 3-hour flight away and Malta's pro-business environment makes expansion much easier.
●Family legacy and lifestyle: Jack and Emily also wanted their children to grow up in a culturally rich, safe, and family-oriented environment. Emily especially fell in love with the architecture of Malta’s older homes—stone houses with courtyards, gardens, and citrus trees. She’s particularly drawn to villages like Rabat and Mellieha, which offer a mix of charm and modern convenience.
●Smart tax planning: As non-domiciled residents, they can benefit from Malta’s remittance-based taxation system. Under this system, foreign income is only taxable in Malta if it is brought (remitted) into the country, allowing for efficient global financial management while enjoying European residency.
The Raymonds have already received their Approval in Principle through the MPRP. They're now actively looking for their new home in Malta, ideally somewhere quiet and authentic, but still vibrant and close to schools and services.
“We asked DZ Advisory to help us find a property in Malta. Their guidance was invaluable, providing access to trusted developers and real estate agents. Their professionalism and local expertise made all the difference in finding a suitable home for our family." ~ Jack Raymond
Client names and photos have been changed to protect privacy, in full compliance with GDPR requirements.
For the Raymonds, this isn’t just about a relocation. It’s about building a new chapter; one that includes a better quality of life, more educational opportunities, stronger business ties to Europe, and a lasting legacy for their children. Malta offers all of that and more.
Why More People Are Choosing the MPRP
Interest in the MPRP is rising every year. Families, investors, and entrepreneurs see it as a safe, flexible, and valuable way to gain long-term residency in Europe.
1. A Smart Property Investment
One of the key parts of the MPRP is buying or renting a home in Malta. This is not only a requirement, it’s also a smart investment. Malta’s property market has grown steadily for over 20 years. Even during times of global uncertainty, property values in Malta have remained strong.
After five years, applicants are free to sell the property they used for the MPRP. They can then buy or rent another home, as long as they keep a valid address in Malta to renew their residency card. This gives them the freedom to upgrade or downsize later on, depending on their needs.
2. Long-Term Security and Flexibility
Once approved, your residency card is valid for five years straight away. There is no need to live in Malta full-time, and the card can be renewed easily as long as the programme conditions are met. This is ideal for people who want to keep their options open, like living part of the year in Malta, or simply using it as a base in Europe.
3. A Growing Hub for Business
Malta is also becoming more attractive to international business owners. With strong connections to the EU, a business-friendly environment, and an English-speaking workforce, Malta is a great place to set up or expand a company. For entrepreneurs, the MPRP is more than just a residency, it’s a chance to grow in Europe while enjoying a safe and well-connected home base.
Conclusion
Malta is a great choice for people who want a safe, welcoming place to live and grow. With the MPRP, you can get permanent residency without complicated steps or long wait times. The country offers strong schools, a healthy property market, and space to build a better future.
For families, professionals, and investors alike, Malta combines stability, comfort, and opportunity in one Mediterranean location.
FAQS - Frequently Asked Questions About the MPRP
How do I get permanent residence in Malta?
You need to apply through a licensed agent, pass the multi-tier due diligence process, invest in property (buy or rent), and contribute financially to the government.
Is it difficult to get permanent residency in Malta?
Not at all—if you meet the basic financial and background requirements, and work with a licensed agent, the process is straightforward, and the approval is received within 4-6 months from the submission of the application.
How much does it cost to get permanent residency in Malta?
It varies depending on the number of applicants and if you rent or buy. When renting, the property investment must be secured by renting the qualifying property for a minimum value of €14,000 in Malta or Gozo per annum. The qualifying property must be held for a minimum period of 5 years. After this 5-year period is over, a residential address in Malta is then required. If one prefers to purchase the property to continue living in Malta or to keep as a rental investment, the cost of the qualifying property in Malta or Gozo must be at least €375,000 and should also be held for a minimum period of 5 years. Additionally, the main applicants must contribute €30,000 to the Maltese government if purchasing a property, or €60,000 if leasing, and make a €2,000 donation to a local non-governmental organization. A non-refundable administration fee payable to the Residency Malta Agency of €50,000 applies with respect to the main applicant as follows: €15,000 when submitting the application (payment terms: 1 month upon submission) and €35,000 when the Letter of Approval in Principle is issued (payment terms: 2 months upon Approval in Principle). Additional fees apply for each and every dependent of the main applicant following the issuance of a Letter of Approval in Principle.
What country is easiest to move to from the US?
For Americans seeking EU access and stability, Malta is one of the easiest countries to move to and live comfortably long-term in Europe. It is popular for its low crime rate, good healthcare, and strong legal systems. It offers attractive residency programs for investors, with the most sought-after programme (the MPRP) offering a Permanent Residency solution for the whole family.
Can I move to Malta permanently?
Yes. Non-EU citizens can apply for Malta’s Permanent Residency Programme. Once approved, you receive a 5-year residence card that is renewable, with no requirement to stay in Malta full-time.
Can a US citizen buy a house in Malta?
Yes. US citizens can purchase property in Malta, though they normally need an AIP permit, especially for homes outside designated zones. Once granted, they may buy one residential property. DZ Advisory can connect US citizens to a trusted local notary to assist with the AIP permit.
Can I retire to Malta from USA?
Yes, many Americans choose to retire in Malta for its pleasant climate, quality healthcare, and attractive tax regimes. With the Malta Permanent Residency Programme (MPRP), you can enjoy long-term residency, favourable tax treatment under the Double Taxation Agreement between Malta and the United States (designed to avoid double taxation and prevent fiscal evasion), and the convenience of an English-speaking environment that makes settling in easier.
DZ Advisory can help you understand Malta’s Permanent Residence Programme, tax benefits, and relocation options for U.S. citizens. Get in touch with DZ Advisory today for expert advice and start planning your best life in Malta!
