The Malta Permanent Residence Programme

• Member country of the European Union (since 2004), part of the Schengen area (since 2007) and member of the Commonwealth of Nations (since 1964)
• Free movement within the entire Schengen area
• One of the safest countries in the world (according to the World Risk Report)
• Malta is an economically stable country with a credit rating A+ showing one of the highest economic growth rates among all EU countries
• No language requirement and English is an official language in Malta
• The right to reside in Malta without any restrictions and no obligations to reside any minimum number of days
• Children under 29 years can be included as part of the application, provided that they are not married and confirmed as financial dependents of the main applicant
• Option to add additional family members after the residency certificate has been issued
• The applicant and his/her spouse can include financially dependent parents as part of the application
• Exceptional education and leading health care system ranking in the top 5 (according to WHO)
• The residence card is issued for 5 years, renewable for a period of 5 years thereafter

The applicant has the option to apply for a Temporary Residence valid for 1 year. Issued at the start of the application process following standard background checks. Renewal of the 1-year temporary residence permit is subject to the sole discretion of the Agency and upon submission of the complete application pack within the stipulated timeframe. Upon Approval in Principle and full compliance with Programme obligations, the Temporary Permit will convert to a Permanent Residency Certificate.

Preliminary due diligence is a key first step in getting permanent residency in Malta under the Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP). This process checks if the applicant meets the requirements set by Residency Malta Agency, reducing the risk of application rejection.

What is Preliminary Due Diligence?

Preliminary due diligence is a thorough background check to see if the applicant qualifies for the Malta Permanent Residence Programme. It verifies the applicant’s identity, financial status, and background to ensure they meet the strict rules of the MPRP.

Why is Preliminary Due Diligence Important?

Risk Reduction: This check helps find any issues that could cause the application to be rejected, reducing risk for both the applicant and the Licensed Agent helping you with the MPRP application.

Compliance Check: It ensures the applicant follows all legal and regulatory rules set by the Residency Malta Agency.

Smooth Process: Fixing potential problems early makes the rest of the application process smoother and faster.

Steps in the Preliminary Due Diligence Process

1. Initial Assessment: 

• Document Verification: Main  applicant and any dependents aged 14 and above must provide an identification document. The main applicant must also provide proof of address.
• Identity Check: Verifying the main applicants and all dependents (if any) identity to confirm it is correct.

2. Financial Evaluation: 

• Asset Verification: Confirming that the main applicant has assets worth at least €500,000, with €150,000 in financial assets; or show they have capital assets of not less than €650,000, of which €75,000 must be in the form of financial assets.
• Income Verification: Ensuring that the main applicant has a steady and regular income to support himself and his dependents.

3. Background Check:

• Criminal Record Check: Ensuring the main applicant and dependents (if any) have a clean criminal record and do not pose a threat to national security, public policy, or public health.
• Sanctions Screening: Verifying that the main applicant and dependents (if any) you are not from a sanctioned country and have not been refused residency or citizenship before.

After passing Preliminary Due Diligence, the Licensed Agent can be sure that the applicant is eligible and can move on to the next steps of the application process with confidence. This initial check greatly increases the chances of approval by solving any possible issues early on.

The Residency Malta Agency adopts a four- tier due diligence process composed of the following:

First Tier:
The Agent applies KYC principles when onboarding applicants using the Residency Malta Agency´s official forms to persons and families interested in the MPRP.

Second Tier:
The Residency Malta Agency then verifies the application´s completeness and correctness. All documentation submitted by the Agent is checked in its entirety by the Agency to ensure validity.

Third Tier:
Police clearance and check against Interpol and Europol data are then obtained following the above-mentioned thorough checks.

Fourth Tier:
International databases are used to check for sanctioned individuals and companies, as well as family members of applicants including but not limited to their corporate affiliations such as business partners or associates, if any.

Through the above four-tier due-diligence process, the Agency will be able to put together the applicant ‘story’ which is fundamental for the Agency´s Approvals Board to issue a letter of Approval in Principle or Rejection.

The process of getting permanent residency in Malta under the Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) is detailed and requires careful preparation. The next important step after the preliminary due diligence is collecting the necessary documents to be able to submit a complete and accurate application. Depending on the applicant, this stage usually takes few weeks and involves key tasks that applicant needs to prepare.

Why is Document Collection Important?

Collecting documents is crucial because it gives the Residency Malta Agency all the necessary information to check if the applicant qualifies for the MPRP. Proper documentation makes sure the application is complete, reducing the chances of delays or rejection due to missing or incorrect information.

This step involves gathering personal and financial documents, translating them into English, and certifying them to meet the Agency’s standards prior to the application submission.

Key Activities in the Document Collection Process

1. Engagement with Licensed Agents: The first step is to engage with experienced licensed agents, like the experts at DZ Advisory. The Agent will guide the applicant through the document collection phase and provide a detailed list of the required documents.

2. Compiling Personal and Financial Documents: The Agent works closely with the applicant to collect their personal and financial documents, which include:

• Personal Documents: Passports, proof of address, birth certificates, marriage certificates (if applicable), and other identification documents.
• Financial Documents: Bank statements, proof of income, asset declarations, and other financial records that show the applicant’s financial standing.

Each document must be translated into English if it is not already. Approved translators should be used to ensure compliance with the Residency Malta Agency’s requirements.

3. Certification of Documents: Once the documents are gathered and translated, some of them may need to be certified by a notary public. This certification confirms that the copies of the documents are true and accurate representations of the originals. Notarisation is a critical step that adds a layer of authenticity to the application.

4. Filling Out Application Forms: The Agent helps the applicant fill out the necessary application forms. This requires careful attention to detail to make sure all information is accurate and complete. Errors or omissions in the forms can cause delays or even rejection of the application.

5. Administration Fee Payment Upon Submission: Once application is submitted, the main applicant shall pay a non-refundable administration fee of €15,000. This fee is part of the formal submission process and must be paid before the application can be processed further.

Importance of Professional Assistance

Engaging professional assistance, such as the services provided by DZ Advisory, is crucial during this phase. Experienced agents can navigate the complexities of the documentation process, ensuring that all requirements are met, and that the application is submitted correctly. Their expertise reduces the risk of errors and increases the chances of a successful application.  DZ Advisory is listed as the number one Agent on the agent list which can be found on the website of Residency Malta Agency.

After collecting documents and submitting the application, the next important phase in the MPRP is the review process by Residency Malta Agency. This step ensures that all information given by the applicant is thoroughly checked by the Residency Malta Agency. This process may take up to six months.

Why is Due Diligence Important?

Due diligence is crucial for keeping the MPRP secure and trustworthy. This thorough process ensures that only qualified and reputable individuals get permanent residency in Malta.

Key Components of the Due Diligence Process:

1. Verification of Submitted Information: The Residency Malta Agency carefully reviews all documents and information provided in the application, including passports, bank statements, and certificates. This cross-checking confirms their accuracy and authenticity.

2. Background Checks: Comprehensive background checks are conducted to look into the applicant’s history. This involves checking international databases to ensure the applicant has no criminal record or involvement in activities that could pose a risk to Malta’s national security or reputation. Detailed background checks include criminal record checks and screening against international sanctions lists.

3. Source of Funds Verification: The Agency checks the source of the applicant’s funds to make sure they are legitimate and not from illegal activities. This step is critical to prevent money laundering and other financial crimes.

4. Reputational Due Diligence: The applicant’s reputation is assessed through various means, including media searches and consultations with international law enforcement agencies.

5. Financial Scrutiny: The Agency evaluates the applicant’s financial standing, ensuring that the declared assets and income meet the required thresholds.

Outcome of Due Diligence:

Decision:
If the applicant passes the due diligence checks, the application will be approved.

Request for Additional Information:
If there are any concerns, the applicant may be asked to provide more documentation or clarification prior to taking the decision.

Fulfilment of Investment Conditions:
Once the review by Residency Malta Agency has been complete and an approval in principle has been granted, the next step is for the applicant to fulfill the investment conditions.

1. Administrative Fee:

• Pay the remaining balance of the non-refundable fee of €45,000.
• An additional non-refundable administration fee of €7,500 for each and every adult dependent (except for the spouse) of the Main Applicant (payment terms: 2 months upon Approval in Principle.

2. Qualifying Property Requirements:

• Buy a property for at least €375,000, or rent a property for at least €14,000
• The main applicant needs to ensure that the qualifying property is held for a minimum of 5 years.  During such period the applicant is able to change qualifying property as long as there are no gaps.  Following the lapse of the initial 5 years, the applicant shall still keep a residential address in order to renew the Maltese residency card, however at this stage there would be no minimum requirements.
• The main applicants who acquire a qualifying property will be permitted to lease the property to third parties for temporary periods during which they are not present in Malta. Furthermore, applicant who lease a qualifying property may, with the landlord’s consent, sublet the leased property after the initial 5-year lease period has elapsed.

3. Government Contribution:
Pay a contribution of €37,000 in case where the main applicant has bought or leased a qualifying property within 8 months from the issuance of the letter of approval in principle.

4. Donation to a Maltese NGO:
Donate €2,000 to a registered non-governmental organisation (NGO) in Malta.

5. Insurances:
Purchase a health insurance policy covering all risks in Malta and other European Countries for each applicant.

These investment conditions are mandatory for the successful approval of the MPRP application. Non-compliance or not providing necessary documentation can lead to delays or failure to receive final approval.

Licensed agents, like DZ Advisory Ltd., provide valuable support in navigating the investment conditions. Their expertise ensures all requirements are met promptly and accurately, increasing the chances of a successful application.

By fulfilling these investment conditions, applicants show their commitment to Malta, paving the way for final approval and getting permanent residency.

After meeting the investment requirements, and the letter of final approval is issued, biometrics capturing is the next step in getting permanent residency in Malta under the Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP). This means the main applicants and their dependents (if any), travel to Malta have their biometric data taken by the Residency Malta Agency, which is essential to verify the identity and issue the residence cards.

Steps in the Biometric Process:

1. Scheduling a Biometrics Appointment: Your licensed agent will book a biometrics appointment according the applicant’s availability with Residency Malta Agency.

2. Travel to Malta: The main applicant and dependents (if any) must travel to Malta in order for biometric capturing to take place.

3. Capturing of Biometrics data: Applicants need to visit the Residency Malta Agency to have their fingerprints taken. This is a simple process that usually takes less than an hour.  It is important to follow Residency Malta Agency’s instructions to ensure the process goes smoothly.

4. Residence Cards: Once the biometrics are captured, and all residence related forms are submitted, the Malta Residence Card is printed. The licensed agent shall collect the residence card on behalf of the applicants.

Once Applicants collect the Maltese residence cards, they are able to enjoy living in Malta and to travel freely in Schengen.

The Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) offers a clear and structured pathway for individuals seeking permanent residency in Malta. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step overview of the process, ensuring applicants understand each stage and what is required to achieve successful residency, following the receipt of the Approval in Principle Letter.

The main applicant will be granted an 8-month window to finalise the investment and this includes:

Step 1: Settling remaining fees,

Step 2: Purchasing a qualifying property or formalizing a lease,

Step 3: Making the Government contribution

Step 4: Donating to a local registered NGO

Step 5: Visit Malta to complete the process which entails, the taking of Biometric data (finger print, photo and signature) at Residency Malta Agency’s office

Once the details in Step 1 to Step 4 are complete, supporting proof is submitted, and verified by Residency Malta Agency, the Main applicant will be issued the Letter of Final Approval along with Permanent Residence Certificate. The Malta Residency Card will only be issued once Step 5 is completed.

Steps to Receiving Permanent Residence Cards

1. Submission of Biometrics:
Process: After submitting biometrics, the Residency Malta Agency produces the permanent residence cards. These cards are then sent to the licensed agent in order to be handed over to the applicants.

Validity: The permanent residence card for adult applicants is valid for five years. For minors, the card is renewed one month after they reach the ages of 14 or 18.

Applicants do not need to travel to Malta again to collect the residence cards, as these are sent directly to their Agent.

2. Certificate Issuance:
Process: The Residency Malta Agency issues a Certificate of Residence after the final approval. This certificate confirms the applicant’s new status as a permanent resident.

Annual Review of Compliance with the Programme Terms

Once you have received your permanent residence cards, maintaining compliance with the MPRP terms is crucial. For the first five years, the Residency Malta Agency conducts annual reviews to ensure all conditions of the programme are being met.

Key Aspects of the Annual Review:

1.  Real Estate Compliance:
Requirement: The main applicant must continue to own or rent qualifying real estate in Malta.

The main applicant who acquire a qualifying property will be permitted to lease the property to third parties for temporary periods during which they are not present in Malta. Furthermore, applicant who lease a qualifying property may, with the landlord’s consent, sublet the leased property after the initial 5-year lease period has elapsed.

2. Financial Compliance:
Requirement: The main applicant must maintain a capital of at least €500,000, out of which a minimum of €150,000 must be financial assets; OR €650,000, of which €75,000 must be in the form of financial assets.

3. Other Compliance Checks:
The Residency Malta Agency may also verify other aspects such as the validity of health insurance coverage and any other requirements specified by the MPRP.

Maintaining compliance with these terms is essential to retain permanent resident status in Malta. Failure to comply with any of the programme requirements may result in the revocation of residency status.

DZ Advisory, can assist in ensuring ongoing compliance with the programme terms, making the annual review process straightforward and stress-free for the applicant.

Applicants, along with their dependents, will now have the option to apply for a Temporary Residence. Issued at the start of the application process following standard background checks, the said permit will be valid for one (1) year.

Applicants will be required to submit all necessary documentation within the first six months, ensuring compliance with MPRP regulations. Upon Approval in Principle and full compliance with Programme obligations, the Temporary Permit will convert to a Permanent Residency Certificate. In the case of application refusal, the Temporary Permit will be revoked within fifteen (15) days of the rejection notice.

Process flow to obtain the temporary one-year residence card

Step 1: Power of Attorney 
The Power of Attorney (POA) is the initial step in the application process. By signing the POA document, the Main Applicant authorises the licensed agent to act on their behalf for matters related to the MPRP.

Step 2: Preparation of the Initial Application Pack
The licensed agent must submit the application pack on behalf of the applicant during the biometric data capturing appointment. The List of Forms and Documents to be prepared prior to the booking of the biometric data capturing appointment includes but is not limited to the following:

• Covering Letter by the licenced agent clearly expressing the applicant’s intention to apply for the Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP)
• Power of Attorney explicitly granting the licensed agent full authorisation to act on behalf of the applicant throughout the entire application process.
• Copies of International Passport. All applicants are required to submit a valid and complete copy of their international passport, including a certified true copy of the biometric data page.
• Health Insurance Cover. All applicants must possess health insurance that provides coverage for medical risks in Malta and the Schengen Area, with a minimum coverage amount of €100,000.
• Evidence of Due Diligence Process (Know Your Customer)
• Current Bank Statement covering the last three months and demonstrating sufficient financial means to support themselves and sustain the application process.

Property Documents. Main Applicant must lease or purchase a qualified property.

In case of a purchased property, the below is required:

• Purchase agreement
• Utility bill (not older than 6 months)

In case of a leased property, the below is required:

• Lease agreement (covering the duration of the residency card)
• Receipt of rent
• Utility bill (not older than 6 months)
• Housing Authority Approval
• Lessors’ declaration

Step 3: Biometric Data Capturing Appointment
At the time of the biometrics data capturing appointment, the initial application pack will be vetted and if deemed in order, prospective applicants and any dependents will be allowed to proceed with capturing their biometric data.

Step 4: Pay Applicable Fees
To apply for a temporary residence permit, the Main Applicant is required to pay an initial administrative fee of €15,000. Proof of payment must be presented at the time of the biometric data capturing appointment. An additional fee of €100.00 applies to each temporary residence card, which must be paid during the biometric data capturing appointment.

Step 5: Processing and Collection of Temporary Residency Cards
The processing and issuance of residency cards require approximately four weeks from the date of biometric data capturing, provided the application is complete and accurate.

Step 6: Conversion to Permanent Residency Certificate
Applicants will be required to submit all necessary documentation within the first 6 months ensuring compliance with MPRP regulations. Upon approval in Principle and full compliance with programme obligations, the temporary permit will convert to a permanent residency certificate. In case of application refusal, the temporary permit will be revoked within 15 days of the rejection notice.