Thinking about moving to Malta? The first thing to know is that there isn’t just one route to residency.
The right option depends on whether you are coming to work, run a business, work remotely, invest or make Malta your long-term home.
For South Africans, some of the main routes include:
Single Permit One of the most common options for non-EU nationals who have secured employment with a Maltese company. It allows you to live and work in Malta and is linked to your employment.
Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) Designed for qualifying non-EU nationals looking for permanent residence in Malta. Applicants can choose to rent or purchase a qualifying property, together with meeting the programme’s other financial and eligibility requirements.
Global Residence Programme (GRP) A tax residence programme for qualifying non-EU nationals, offering favourable tax treatment subject to certain conditions and requirements.
Nomad Residence Permit Designed for people who work remotely for a company, business or clients based outside Malta while choosing Malta as their base.
Malta Startup Residence Programme An option for qualifying founders, co-founders and key employees looking to establish and develop an eligible startup in Malta.
And what about property?
One common misconception is that moving to Malta automatically means you need to buy a property.
That is not always the case. Depending on the programme, renting can be an option and can give you time to get to know the island before making a longer-term decision.
With several routes available, the important question is not simply:
How do I get residency in Malta?
Which residency route is right for what I am trying to achieve?
Every situation is different, and the right residency programme will depend on your individual circumstances, family needs, business interests and long-term plans.
Contact us to discuss the options and identify the programme best suited to you.
http://www.capservicesmalta.com/contact-us
Next article: Hearing directly from South Africans who have made Malta home, built businesses here, or moved their business to the island.
“Please note that changes to some of Malta’s tax-residence programmes will take effect from 1 January 2027.”
