Legal Notice 146 of 2025: What’s New in Malta’s Permanent Residence Programme

Key Changes at a Glance:

• Immediate temporary residence card issued upon application
• Unified contribution of €37,000 for all applicants whether opting for property purchase or rent + an administrative fee of €60,000
• Lower overall fees for families
• Leasing rights for property purchasers
• Subletting rights for rental applicants

Temporary Residence Card Issued at Application Stage

One of the most notable changes is the introduction of a one-year renewable temporary residence card, issued at the start of the application process once basic background checks are completed and the initial €15,000 administration fee is paid.

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This measure allows families to relocate to Malta early in the process before receiving the final certificate and explore schooling and housing options with the certainty of legal residence. If the application is ultimately rejected, the temporary permit is revoked within 15 days of the refusal notice.

A Simplified and Fairer Financial Structure

The revised MPRP fee structure aims to reduce the financial burden on families while bringing clarity and fairness to the programme’s pricing model.

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The administration fee for the main applicant is now set at €60,000, payable in two stages: €15,000 upon submission of the application and €45,000 following the issuance of the Letter of Approval in Principle.

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The contribution has been unified at €37,000, regardless of whether the applicant purchases or leases a qualifying property. This replaces the previous dual structure, where the cost was according to whether the applicant rented or purchased a property.  

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Adult dependants (excluding the spouse) now incur a fee of €7,500, reduced from the previous €10,000. Additional dependants added after approval are also subject to a €7,500 fee. Crucially, spouses and minor children no longer attract a separate contribution fee, significantly easing the overall cost for family applicants.

Enhanced Property Flexibility

The updated rules introduce new investment benefits when it comes to purchasing or renting a property.

• Immediate Leasing for Property Purchasers: Applicants who purchase a qualifying property may now lease it out to third parties for temporary periods during which they are not present in Malta.
• Subletting for Rental Applicants: Those leasing a qualifying property may sublet it after the initial five-year period, provided landlord consent is obtained and the sub-tenant is not another MPRP applicant.

Complementing Broader Citizenship Reforms

These enhancements to the MPRP coincide with Malta’s anticipated overhaul of its citizenship framework in the wake of the European Court of Justice ruling earlier this year. The government has committed to phasing out commercially structured citizenship pathways in favour of a merit-based system recognising philanthropists, innovators, and job creators.

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Together, these reforms reaffirm Malta’s dedication to upholding the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and long-term national interest in its migration policy.

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The 2025 MPRP amendments position Malta as one of Europe’s most attractive and accessible long-term residence destinations. With lower costs for families, greater flexibility in property use, and the ability to relocate immediately under temporary residency, the revised programme is tailored to meet the needs of modern investors seeking stability, mobility, and a European base for their families.

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AKM-ACCA