Important Update: 4 Crucial Steps Every Landlord Must Take Before Leasing a Property in Malta

Step 1: Verify Property Registration with Identità Malta

First, the property must be checked with Identità Malta to ensure no previous tenants or owners are still registered.
If someone is still listed, you must complete an Identità de-registration form and provide the Housing Authority’s deregistration confirmation email.

Special Case: The process is more complex if the person still registered has a Maltese ID card issued on the said property.

• If they are abroad, their physical ID card must be sent by courier to Identità Malta, Identity Cards Unit — together with the ID 21 form signed by the holder. The card is held until they return and update their address in person.
• If they cannot be reached, Identità issues a formal notice, giving them 30 days to comply before cancelling the registration.

Identità Malta requires a copy of the landlord’s deed of sale to confirm legal ownership before proceeding.

Step 2: Register the Property on the Housing Authority Portal

Every leased property must appear on the Housing Authority’s database.
If the property is new or missing, the landlord or agent must email the Authority with a recent ARMS bill. The listing is usually updated within four working days.

Step 3: Confirm the Full Address with the Address Management Unit (AMU)

Accurate addressing is critical. The AMU no longer accepts listings based solely on block names.
The full address must include door and apartment numbers. Since there is no public database, AMU officers cross-check details manually against the Government Gazette. If updates are needed, they issue confirmation along with the relevant gazette notice. This process can take up to seven working days.