Revised Lower Costs: More Accessible for Families

The government has restructured the MPRP fee schedule to create more attractive pricing for families, particularly those choosing the rental route. Key changes include:

• Unified Contribution Structure: The contribution amount is now set at €37,000, regardless of whether applicants purchase or lease property. Previously, rental applicants paid €60,000 while purchasers paid €38,000—resulting in a €23,000 savings for those opting to rent.

• Lower Family Costs: The former €10,000 contribution for each additional family member has been waived entirely for spouses and all minor children, and reduced to €7,500 for each adult dependant (age 18+). This significantly eases the financial burden for family applications.

• Streamlined Administration Fee: The €60,000 administration fee is now retained, but paid in two stages: €15,000 at the time of application submission, and €45,000 upon final approval. This split-payment structure supports better capital planning for applicants.

As a result, the total capital outlay for a typical family to obtain permanent residence is now approximately €100,000, excluding the cost of property lease or purchase. This positions Malta as one of the most cost-effective European options for permanent residence—especially for families seeking long-term relocation.

Licensing Authority Consolidation Under RMA

Licensing of accredited MPRP agents will now fall exclusively under the Residency Malta Agency. Previously managed by Agenzija Komunitá Malta, the shift aims to streamline compliance and bring all operational oversight under one dedicated authority.

Existing licenses under Subsidiary Legislation 188.05 will remain valid through December 31, 2025, allowing a full transition window for current agents. The RMA will issue updated licensing guidelines and application documents in the coming weeks.

Strategic Reform Through Industry Dialogue

“I applaud not just the content of the reforms but also the foresight behind them,” Ryan comments. “These reforms reflect the forward-thinking mindset of the RMA and the Maltese government. They are not only securing the country’s competitive edge but also ensuring that investment migration continues to benefit Malta’s communities and economy.”

These changes result from sustained engagement between Residency Malta and leading industry stakeholders. Many of the enhancements announced echo practical suggestions raised by agents and advisors—prioritizing efficiency, affordability, and real-world usability for families and investors alike.

Laying the Groundwork for What’s Next

By delivering speed, flexibility, and lower costs, Malta’s updated permanent residence framework sets the stage for long-term program stability and future evolution—potentially including updates to naturalization pathways or family eligibility criteria.

“With these reforms, Malta has not only refreshed its residence program but also laid the groundwork for further developments,” Ryan concluded.

“Given the progressive nature of these updates, we are confident that enhancements to the citizenship pathway will follow.”