As Malta’s citizenship route faces EU pressure, the Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) has emerged as a leading, compliant alternative for global investors seeking secure, long-term EU access through structured investment.
Malta continues to be one of the most attractive destinations for global investors seeking European Union (EU) residency through structured, transparent, and efficient programmes.
While Malta's citizenship-by-investment pathway has been under scrutiny from the European Union and may face closure, the country’s Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) has emerged as a stable and compliant alternative. Designed for non-EU nationals seeking long-term EU access, the MPRP offers security, flexibility, and economic value — making it one of the most sought-after investor visa options in Europe today.
With its strategic location, robust financial system, high-quality healthcare and education, and favourable tax environment, Malta is ideal for high-net-worth individuals, entrepreneurs, and family offices looking to expand to the EU. The MPRP, launched in 2021, is designed to meet this demand while ensuring full alignment with EU rules and international due diligence standards.
What Is the Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP)?
The MPRP grants permanent residency in Malta for life, with the right to live in Malta and visa-free travel across the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Applicants are not required to live in Malta to maintain residency status, making it highly suitable for global investors with business interests spread across multiple jurisdictions.
Key requirements for the MPRP
- • Real Estate: Purchase property worth at least €375,000 (or €300,000 in the south of Malta or Gozo), or rent a property with a minimum annual lease of €14,000 (€10,000 in Gozo/south).
- • Government Contribution: A one-time, non-refundable contribution of €28,000 (property purchase) or €58,000 (property lease).
- • Philanthropic Donation: A €2,000 donation to a registered Maltese NGO.
- • Wealth Proof: A minimum capital of €500,000, of which at least €150,000 must be in financial assets.
- • Clean Criminal Record and robust source-of-funds checks.
Unlike citizenship routes, the MPRP is a residency by investment programme, not a nationality scheme. It does not automatically lead to Malta citizenship, though long-term residents may later qualify for naturalisation under separate criteria.
Why the MPRP Is a Strategic Choice?
With the likely sunset of the Malta citizenship programme due to EU pressures, the MPRP stands as the leading route for those seeking stable, long-term access to the EU without the complexity of citizenship or passport pathways. For investors previously considering other golden visa programmes in Europe—such as those in Portugal, Greece, or Spain—the Maltese option offers unique advantages:
- • Permanent residence from day one, unlike temporary permits that require renewal.
- • No physical presence requirement, making it suitable for global citizens.
- • Schengen access, ideal for business and leisure travel.
- • Family-friendly, covering spouses, children, and dependent parents.
The MPRP also benefits from Malta’s strong bilateral ties, English-speaking population, and status as a respected financial centre within the EU.
The MPRP also benefits from Malta’s strong bilateral ties, English-speaking population, and status as a respected financial centre within the EU.
Bridge Partners: Your Guide to Maltese Residency by Investment
At Bridge Partners, we help investors and entrepreneurs navigate Malta’s investor visa system with full transparency and confidence. Our team delivers:
- Programme Selection Guidance - Ensuring the MPRP aligns with your investment goals, family plans, and long-term mobility needs.
- Real Estate Support - Connecting you with vetted property options in strategic locations across Malta.
- Application Management - Handling all legal, compliance, and documentation steps from start to approval.
- Post-Approval Services - Assisting with relocation, tax planning, and ongoing residency compliance.
Whether you are seeking European residency as part of a broader global mobility strategy or looking to diversify your lifestyle options, our team ensures you make the right choice at every step.
As one of the few remaining EU investor visa programmes offering permanent residence without the requirement to relocate, Malta’s MPRP continues to attract discerning investors globally. With citizenship routes narrowing across Europe, Malta’s residency scheme provides a practical and prestigious alternative. Bridge Partners is proud to support clients in unlocking the opportunities this programme offers, backed by experience, insight, and a tailored approach to every application.