Malta Global Residency Program Guide: Tax Residency on Blockchain Island!

Why Malta?

Malta is one of those places that’s been whispering sweet nothings in the ears of wealthy folk worldwide. It offers aesthetic beaches, a laid-back vibe and a government that’s rolling out the red carpet for high-rollers, i.e, self-sufficient people. That’s Malta! Now, let’s cut to the chase. You’ve probably heard about the Malta Global Residency Program (GRP). It’s like a golden ticket to island life. If you’re someone who can afford to play in the big leagues financially, this is your best bet.

The island nation in the Mediterranean Sea is a country that can be characterised by sunny and sandy beaches and many other tourist’ attractions. It has one of the most strategic places in the world, geographically, proposing the attractive combination of life quality, job and the perspectives for tax benefits.

Despite having a population of slightly over half a million, Malta has been able to stand as a force to reckon with, having a sound economic base, high living standards and a friendly taxation system.

Malta is considered to be one of the world’s top destinations for high-net-worth individuals. Here are some of the many prestigious honours that Malta currently holds:

• Ranked Second in Europe for the best beaches – European Enviromental Agency
• Voted the Safest Country in Europe – World Risk Report 2018
• The top destination in the world to retire – The Express 2024
• Dubbed Blockchain Island by Forbes & Deloitte for its progressive regulartory framework for Blockchain Technology

A tiny nation with a robust economy

Despite the country’s small size, Malta packs a punch! The country has been capable of managing its economy well, as currently sectors such as financial services, iGaming, blockchain and tourism contribute immensely to the nation’s GDP. 

Therefore, in the year 2022, Malta’s GDP per capita was €33,037, which is considerably ahead of the Eurozone average. Moreover, with regard to the remaining indicators, there is also tremendous stability and the growth of real GDP has remained at an excellent level of 6%, 1% in 2023.

Quality of Life in Malta

Outside of portraying economic indicators, Malta provides a top standard of living as well. A modern and friendly community, comfortable climate, first-class healthcare and top-rated schools make it suitable for families. The cultural values of the people complement the developments on the island, which provides the numerous inhabitants with impressions of the modern world.

A Strategic Location: Gateway to Europe

It is an EU member state that offers the possibility of visa-free movement within the Schengen zone. This, coupled with low tax policies in Malta has made the country to be of the most sought after for business and individual investors seeking a European base.

Malta a Paradise for Crypto Investors and Traders

Malta is one of the world’s most progressive countries when it comes to Crypto and is now strongly regarded as one of the friendliest places in the world for Crypto investors and hodlers. The government has done a fantastic job of attracting entrepreneurs, fintech companies and start ups with its progressive attitude towards digital assets, tax efficient residency programs and entrepreneurial environment. This has led to the country’s nickname ‘Blockchain Island’ as many Crypto Natives set up shop on the European Island.

Tax residents of Malta investing in Crypto can benefit from an exemption of capital gains tax on their digital assets. This makes Malta one of the most attractive places for tax residency purposes for those investing or trading Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum and Solana.

Book A ConsultationTax Residency Program

Malta Global Residency Program Requirements

1. Property Rental or Investment

In order to qualify for the Malta Global Tax Residency Program, applicants must own or rent a property in Malta with a minimum value. The following are the two options:

A) Property Purchase: Applicants need to invest in a property worth €220,000 in Southern Malta and the island of Gozo or €275,000 if investing anywhere else in the country. 

B) Property Rental: Alternatively, the applicant can lease a property which has to be a minimum of: €9,600 in Southern Malta and Gozo or €8,750 per annum throughout the rest of the Maltese islands. 

A declaration must be submitted along with an independent architect’s valuation of the property and an architect’s plan of the property.

2. Minimum Taxation of €15,000 per year

Income that is received from sources located in another country and which is not repatriated to Malta is not subject to any tax at all in Malta. Neither is there any capital gain imposed on foreign assets, no matter whether the income is received in Malta or not. However foreign income remitted to Malta is taxed at the special rate of 15% and there is a minimum annual taxation required to be paid, which stands at €15,000 per financial year.

3. Residents cannot be in another country for 183 days

The point of this program is for foreign nationals to be able to acquire tax residency in Malta. Tax residency in Malta is automatically established when spending 183 days in the country. Residents may still be considered tax residents in Malta based on their ties to the country. However, in order to ensure eligibility, residents should not remain in any foreign jurisdiction globally for more than 183 days per year.

Malta Global Residency Program Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible to apply for the Malta Global Residency Program, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Third-country nationals from outside of the EU, EEA or Switzerland.
• Applicants can’t benefit from other international taxation programs.
• The main applicant must prove they have sufficient financial resources to maintain their own as well as their dependents’ personal stay in Malta without having to make use of the social assistance system in Malta.
• The applicants must hold health insurance that covers them in Malta.

Applicants can include the following dependents:

• Spouse of the main applicant
• Children under the age of 18
• Children under the age of 25 who are financially dependent on the main applicant
• Children of any age with disabilities who are unable to take care of themselves
• Dependent siblings and direct relatives of the main applicant or spouse under the age of 18.
• Individuals who have systematically been for the main applicant as household staff for at least 2 years before the date of submission.

Dependents will not benefit from the special tax regime, only the main applicant.

Malta Global Residency Program: Key Benefits

Visa-free travel to the Schengen Area

A Maltese resident can enjoy visa-free and/or visa-on-arrival access to 159 countries. The Schengen Area consists of 26 countries including Switzerland.

Favourable Tax Regime

Malta also has one of Europe's most attractive tax systems and only taxes locally sourced income and foreign income remitted to the country. This can mean massive tax savings compared to other jurisdictions in the region.

High Quality of Living

Living in Malta is pleasant, healthcare, education and even the infrastructure is very good here. As an island situated in the Mediterranean region, the weather is pleasant. The country has outstanding beaches, a unique history and picturesque architecture.

High Performing Economy and Business Opportunities

Malta has a high-performing economy in sectors such as the financial services, online gaming, tourism and blockchain industries. The country has great networking opportunities and an entrepreneurial spirit.

Investment Opportunities

Investors can get exposure to local real estate marketing by investing in property. Malta is a popular tourist destination in Europe and property prices are increasing significantly year after year.

Malta Global Residency Program: Processing Time

The Malta Global Tax Residency Program has a processing time of around 2-3 months making it one of the fastest pathways to acquiring residency in an EU country. The process is significantly faster than the Portugal and Greece Golden Visa programs which can take over 1 year.

Pathway to Permanent Residency and Citizenship

The Malta Global Residency Permit is valid for one year initially and renewable for 2 year periods indefinitely after this under the same rules. After 5 years of residency, applicants can apply for permanent residency in Malta and after 7 years they can apply for citizenship.

Alternative Residency Programs in Malta

The Malta Global Residency Program is one of several attractive residency programs offered by the Maltese government. This option is most suitable for foreign nationals whose priority is to acquire Tax Residency in Malta. However, the following other programs are valid alternatives.

Malta Permanent Residence Program: The Malta Permanent Residence Program is a great option for those seeking a permanent base in Europe and visa-free access to the Schengen Area without the need to physically reside in the country.

Malta Citizenship By Investment Program: The Maltese Citizenship By Investment is the ultimate solution for Ultra-High Net Worth Individuals looking to acquire a Tier 1 passport by investment.

Malta Retirement Visa: The Malta Retirement Visa is of course the best option for those seeking retirement in the country.

Malta Digital Nomad Visa: The Malta Digital Nomad Visa is ideal for remote workers and freelancers looking to establish residency in Malta and make the country their base. A minimum income of  €2,700 per month is required to be eligible for this program.

Book A ConsultationThe Application Process

How To Get Your Malta Residency Application Process for the Malta Global Residency Program

Below we will outline the Visa process in detail. Those interested in applying for the program can reach out to our team for a complimentary consultation via the button below.

Book A Consultation

Step 1: Initial consultation with Lincoln Global Partners

During our consultation we will discuss your specific case to understand your needs, present to you how the Malta Global Residency Program works, elaborating on the process and the required routes to achieve your residency goals.

Step 2: Power of Attorney

To start the application process, the main applicant needs to sign a Power of Attorney (POA) document. This document allows the licensed agent to act on behalf of the main applicant for the MPRP.

Step 3: Due Dilligence

The Agency applies a rigorous four-tier due diligence process to:

-Ensure applicants are reputable
-Verify a complete and correct application and highlight potential risk factors
- Check Police Clearance, including Interpol and Europol and potential sanctions against family members or associated businesses.
-Put together the applicant’s “story”, painting a coherent picture of the applicant and family members.

Step 4: Submit Application

The complete file is submitted to the approval board who will either issue a Letter of Approval in Principle (LAP) or rejection.

Step 5: Biometrics and Residency Card:

Upon receiving a LAP, applicants and their families can travel to Malta and have their biometrics done to process Malta residence permit cards. However the cards won’t be issued until after the investment is secured.

Step 6: Complete the Investments

Settle the required investment either through property purchase or lease, along with all fees and donation.

Step 7: Annual Compliance

The agency will request the agent to provide proof of leased property and sickness insurance coverage for the beneficiary every year for the first five years. This should be done by submitting a lease contract and an annual policy. After five years, the agency can request these documents at its own discretion.
The Application Process

Malta Global Residency Program: Documents Required

-Clean Criminal Record;

-Authorities Check with interpol;

-Applicants to show they do not suffer with any contagious diseases;

-International Health Insurance / Travel Insurance.
-CV;
-Proof of sufficient income and assets as declared in the Source of Wealth declaration;

-Clear Coloured passport containing all pages and duly certified by a lawyer, notary or chartered accountant;

-Birth Certificate;

-Marriage Certificate, if applicable.

-Proof of payment of the respective governmental fees and philanthropic donation.

-Proof of purchase or rent of property in Malta, as criteria requires.

Apply for the Malta Global Residency Program with Lincoln Global Partners

Lincoln Global Partners, an international investment migration firm is ready to assist you every step of the way with your Investor Visa application in Malta.

Find the right answer

Malta Global Residency Program : Frequently asked Questions

Checkout our FAQ's or reach out to us directly via the contact form at the bottom of the page with further questions.What is the Malta Global Residency Program (GRP)?

The Malta Global Residence Program is tailored to attract non-EU, EEA or Swiss nationals that can demonstrate a stable income, purchase or rent property in Malta and possess a valid health insurance. Eligible applicants might partake in employment in the country. It’s a valuable option for anyone considering making Malta their second home.

Who is eligible to apply for the GRP?

Non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss nationals can apply for the GRP. Applicants must meet certain financial requirements, such as purchasing or renting property in Malta and contributing to the Maltese economy through taxes.

What are the key financial requirements for the GRP?

• Purchase a property for a minimum value of €220,000 in the South of Malta/Gozo or €275,000 in the rest of Malta; or 
• Rent/lease of a property for at least €8,750 in the South of Malta/Gozo or €9,600 in all other areas.
• Payment of a government fee of €6,000 (€ 5,500 if the property is in the south of Malta).

Can family members be included in the GRP application?

Yes. The main applicant can include their spouse, children under the age of 25, parents, and grandparents in their application, provided they are financially dependent on the main applicant.

What is the minimum stay requirement under the GRP?

There is no mandatory minimum stay requirement for GRP beneficiaries. However, applicants must maintain their property in Malta and continue fulfilling the program’s conditions.

Can Russian nationals apply for Malta Global Residency Program?

Yes, applicants with a Russian passport can apply for the Malta Global Residency Program.

How long does it take to process a GRP application?

The processing time for a GRP application typically ranges from 3 to 6 months, depending on the completeness of the application and any potential additional requirements from the authorities.

Can you assist with the Malta Global Residency Program application?

Yes, we can manage the entire application process on your behalf, including document preparation and submission to the Maltese authorities.

Is there a renewal process for GRP status?

GRP beneficiaries must renew their residency cards periodically. However, as long as they continue to meet the program’s requirements (e.g., maintaining property and tax contributions), the renewal process is straightforward.

What is the Schengen Visa advantage of the GRP?

As a resident of Malta under the GRP, you can travel within the Schengen Area without the need for a visa for 90 days within any 180-day period.

Can I buy property anywhere in Malta for the GRP?

Yes, but the property must meet the minimum valuation criteria. Lower property values apply in certain areas, such as Gozo or the south of Malta, offering more affordable options for applicants.

Can I invest in commercial property for the GRP?

No, the property purchased or rented under the GRP must be residential, as the program focuses on promoting long-term residency in Malta.