Malta has introduced significant changes to its Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) through the Malta Permanent Residence Programme (Amendment) Regulations, 2025, published under Legal Notice 146 of 2025. These amendments aim to tighten regulatory oversight, streamline agent licensing, and revise applicable fees and contributions. The changes reflect Malta’s continued commitment to transparency, compliance, and the integrity of its residency-by-investment framework.
Key Highlights of the 2025 Amendments
1. New Licensing Regime for Agents
One of the central reforms is the establishment of a new licensing system for agents assisting applicants under the MPRP:
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Agent Licensing by the Agency: Agents must now be licensed directly by the Agency responsible for the programme, replacing the previous framework governed by the Agents (Licences) Regulations.
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Qualifications: Agents must be public accountants, auditors, lawyers, or licensed financial advisors, and meet additional conditions laid out in official guidelines.
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Due Diligence and Professional Standards: Agents are required to undergo rigorous due diligence checks upon application and annually. They must also hold a professional indemnity insurance policy of at least €500,000.
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Annual Licensing Fee: A new annual licence fee of €5,000 is now applicable.
Existing agents licensed under the previous regulations may continue operating until 31st December 2025, after which the new licensing framework becomes mandatory.
2. Agent Responsibilities and Enforcement
The updated regulations hold agents personally accountable for maintaining compliance, including the conduct of their employees and associates. The Agency now has clearer powers to:
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Suspend or revoke licences if an agent or their representative is deemed unfit.
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Require substitution of representatives deemed unsuitable.
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Refuse surrender of licence if it suspects the agent is attempting to evade legal responsibilities.
Agents must also notify the Agency in advance of their intention to surrender a licence and may be asked to delay doing so under specific conditions.
3. Revised Administrative Fees and Contributions
The amendments introduce a new fee and contribution schedule, which applies to all applications submitted on or after 1st January 2025, including those still pending at the time the amendments come into force:
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Main Applicant:
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€60,000 non-refundable administration fee (€15,000 payable upon application, €45,000 upon approval).
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€37,000 contribution (whether the qualifying property is owned or rented).
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Dependants:
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€7,500 administration fee per dependant (exemptions apply for certain categories such as minor children and spouses with specific circumstances).
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No additional contribution required for dependants.
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4. Temporary Residence Permits Introduced
Applicants can now apply for a one-year temporary residence permit while their application is being processed. This permit is renewable annually until the permanent residence application is finalized, provided all required documentation is submitted within six months.
5. Other Notable Changes
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The definition of “dependant” and related contribution requirements have been clarified.
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The Agency is now authorized to issue guidelines regulating the use of qualifying property, particularly regarding absences from Malta.
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Certain outdated references to previous legislation have been replaced or removed to reflect the new framework.
The 2025 amendments to the Malta Permanent Residence Programme mark a significant step toward reinforcing Malta’s commitment to transparency, regulatory consistency, and the safeguarding of its international reputation. Individuals or agents interested in the MPRP are strongly encouraged to familiarize themselves with the updated regulations or consult a licensed agent under the new regime.
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