In depth · Property
Buying property in Malta: how it works
The official rules for buying a home in Malta, and where to check the details. It is general information, not legal or tax advice, and we never publish prices.
Updated October 2026
Who needs a permit
Buyers who are not citizens of an EU member state generally need a permit to acquire property, granted under Chapter 246 of the Laws of Malta, the Acquisition of Immovable Property Act. EU citizens who have lived in Malta continuously for five years do not (Malta Tax and Customs Administration, mtca.gov.mt).
Special Designated Areas
In the Special Designated Areas, developments approved for the purpose, there are no acquisition restrictions (mtca.gov.mt). Ask your notary for the current list.
Living in Malta
Residence permits are a separate matter. Residency Malta Agency runs the Malta Permanent Residence Programme, which involves a four-tier due-diligence process, the Nomad Residence Permit and the Malta Startup Residence Programme (residencymalta.gov.mt). Identità issues residence documents (identita.gov.mt).
The notary
Property sales in Malta are completed by public deed before a notary. Take independent legal advice before you sign the preliminary agreement, the konvenju, and check the tax on the transfer with your notary.
Where people live
See our property guide for Sliema and Tigné, St Julian’s and Portomaso, Valletta, the Three Cities and Gozo, and the estate agencies we could check. We don’t publish prices.
Questions and answers
Can foreigners buy property in Malta?
Yes. Non-EU buyers generally need an AIP permit, except in the Special Designated Areas (mtca.gov.mt). Take legal advice.
Does buying a home give me residence?
Not by itself. Residence is handled by Residency Malta Agency and Identità.
General information only, not legal or tax advice. Confirm every step with a qualified notary or lawyer and the official sources.