The basic requirement to obtain a property in Malta is to get an AIP permit. AIP represents Acquisition of Immovable Property. The requirements in terms of the AIP are set out in the table below.

AIP Permit

Maltese and EU Citizens - both with 5 years continuous residence in Malta Maltese and EU Citizens - without 5 years continuous residence in Malta Non-Maltese and Non-EU citizens
Primary Residence No restrictions - No need to apply No restrictions - No need to apply Prior authorisation is required*
Secondary Residence or any other immovable property No restrictions - No need to apply Prior authorisation is required* Prior authorisation is required*
Property in a Special Designated Area** No prior authorisation is required and no limit No prior authorisation is required and no limit No prior authorisation is required and no limit
Immovable Property required for the person's business activities' or supply of services by such person No prior authorisation is required and no limit No prior authorisation is required and no limit No permit granted unless required for an industrial or touristic project or as a contributor to the development of the economy of Malta

*A permit will not be granted if applicant has already acquired immovable property in Malta – an exception however lies with 'Special Designated Areas'. ** The Special Designated Areas are the following:

  1. Portomaso Development, St. Julian's, Malta
  2. Portomaso Extension I, St Julian's, Malta
  3. Cottonera Development, Cottonera, Malta
  4. Manoel Island / Tigne Point, Tigne/ Gzira, Malta
  5. Tas-Sellum Residence, Mellieha, Malta
  6. Madliena Village Complex, Malta
  7. Smartcity, Malta
  8. Fort Cambridge Zone, Tignè, Malta
  9. Ta' Monita Residence, Marsascala, Malta
  10. Pender Place and Mercury House Site, Malta
  11. Metropolis Plaza, Gzira, Malta
  12. Fort Chambray, Ghajnsielem, Gozo
  13. Kempinski Residences, San Lawrenz, Gozo
  14. Pender Place and Mercury House Site, Extensions I, II, III, IV and V, Malta
  15. Vista Point, Marsalforn, Gozo

The purchased property must be intended for one of the following:

  1. Personal residential use of the applicant exclusively;
  2. Other purposes approved by Government;
  3. An approved industrial or touristic project;
  4. Any other project or purpose which is considered to contribute to the development of the Maltese economy.

Transaction costs/ Disbursement:

  1. Government stamp duty - 5% of the value of the property. 1% is paid on the preliminary agreement and 4% upon the final deed;
  2. Approximately 1 % of the purchase price of the property is charged by the notary;
  3. Approximately €582 due as disbursement for the researches into title, liabilities amongst other – depending on the nature of the property and when it was built;
  4. €233 as a fee for an AIP permit (if required);
  5. Legal fees (where applicable) paid by the party engaging such services;
  6. Agency fees due are usually borne by the vendor.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.