Global Residence Programme

Global Residence Programme For Non-EU Nationals

The Malta Global Residence Programme (GRP) is designed to attract non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss nationals seeking tax-efficient residency in Malta. The programme provides an attractive pathway to establish residence in this sun-drenched Mediterranean island while enjoying ease of travel across the Schengen Zone. Beneficiaries are offered favourable tax benefits, including a flat tax rate on foreign-sourced income remitted to Malta, along with the ability to include dependants under the same application.

The Malta Global Residence Programme offers a host of advantages for non-EU nationals seeking residence in the Mediterranean. Beneficiaries enjoy a flat tax rate of 15% on foreign income remitted to Malta, no tax on foreign-sourced capital gains, and access to Malta’s comprehensive double taxation relief framework. The programme provides the freedom to live, work, and travel within the Schengen Zone, with minimal residency requirements in Malta. Additionally, applicants can pass on their special tax status to heirs under certain conditions, all while enjoying Malta’s strategic location, vibrant lifestyle, and high quality of life.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR THE MALTA GLOBAL RESIDENCE PROGRAMME

Applicants to the Malta Global Residence Programme (GRP) must meet specific criteria to qualify:

Residency Requirements: Applicants must be non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals and ensure they do not reside in another jurisdiction for more than 183 days in a calendar year.
Financial Independence: Demonstrate stable and regular income sufficient to support themselves and their dependents without recourse to Malta’s social assistance system.
Property Investment: Hold qualifying property in Malta either by purchase or rent:
- Purchase: Minimum property value of €275,000, or €220,000 if located in Gozo or South Malta.
- Rental: Minimum annual lease of €9,600, or €8,750 in Gozo or South Malta.
Insurance and Documentation: Possess valid health insurance covering risks across Malta and the EU and maintain a valid travel document.
Language and Integrity: Show the ability to communicate in English or Maltese and pass a Fit and Proper Test, ensuring no criminal record or adverse background history.

These criteria ensure applicants meet the programme’s standards while supporting themselves in Malta.

TAX TREATMENT UNDER THE MALTA RESIDENCE PROGRAMME

- Foreign-Sourced Income is taxed at a flat rate of 15% when remitted to Malta.
- Capital Gains are exempt from taxation, even if remitted.
- Malta-Sourced Income is taxed at 35%.
An annual minimum tax of €15,000 is applicable covering all income remitted to Malta by the main applicant and dependants. Beneficiaries may access Malta’s extensive double taxation treaties to avoid being taxed on the same income in multiple jurisdictions.

DEPENDANTS

One application can include the main applicant and his spouse, financially dependent ascendants and other non-family members and dependent relatives that are shown to be bona fide members of the household. Children under the age of 25 are automatically eligible for inclusion.

ADMINISTRATIVE FEES

A standard application processing fee of €6,000 applies if a property is purchased in Malta, and €5,500 if the property is bought or rented in Gozo or the south of Malta.

Applications must be submitted through an Authorised Registered Mandatory.

DOUBLE TAXATION RELIEF

Malta’s comprehensive Double Taxation Relief (DTR) network covers over 70 countries, preventing dual taxation on income such as pensions, dividends, and employment. Where no formal treaty exists, Malta applies Unilateral Relief, offering tax credits for foreign taxes paid. Moreover, Malta has no inheritance tax, although certain duties apply to local property and shares.

The GRP ensures that residents can optimise their tax obligations while enjoying Malta’s strategic location, Mediterranean lifestyle, and access to EU markets.

Overall, the DTR framework enables retirees to benefit fully from Malta’s favourable tax environment without duplicative taxation, preserving the value of foreign income and retirement funds.

YOUR TRUSTED PARTNER IN MALTA

Established in 1969, Frank Salt Real Estate brings over 55 years of expertise to Malta’s real estate and residency sectors. Renowned for our trusted reputation, we not only assist clients in finding the perfect property for sale or rent but also provide expert guidance through Malta’s residence and citizenship programmes.

With the largest selection of properties in Malta and a team highly experienced in assisting foreign clients, we ensure a seamless relocation or investment process. From personalised residency advice to an extensive range of real estate options, Frank Salt Real Estate is your dependable partner in making Malta your home.