The Malta Retirement Program (MRP) is designed for foreigners interested in relocating to Malta. If you are interested in this process, we invite you to review the following information and reach out to our immigration lawyers in Malta for additional details and legal support.
| Quick Facts | |
|---|---|
| Retirement programs available for foreigners | Retirement Scheme in Malta or Maltese Retirement Program (MRP) |
Who can retire to Malta? | Both EU and non-EU citizens are accepted in the program. |
Conditions to join MRP | – owning a property worth at least EUR 220,000, or renting a house for around EUR 8,750 per year in Gozo, for example, – health insurance, – stable income, – certification of good health |
| Is it possible to accept jobs in Malta as a retiree? | No, the legislation does not allow retired foreigners to work in Malta, however, they can maintain non-executive posts. |
| Source of income | Pension |
| Clear criminal record solicited (YES/NO) | YES |
| Minimum income for American citizens retired in Malta | Around USD 26,000 |
| Bank account required in Malta | Not imposed, but recommended |
| Visa for Canadian retirees in Malta | Not solicited |
| Taxation for retirees in Malta | A flat tax rate of 15% on foreign-sourced income transferred to Malta |
| Administration fee | Around EUR 2,500 |
| Other conditions to retire to Malta | – proof of domicile, – medical certificate, – 6 photos, – valid passport, – bank statements |
| Residence permit issued (YES/NO) | YES |
| Reasons to retire to Malta | – great living conditions, – culture, – great health system, – dedicated programs to gain citizenship |
| Why choose our Maltese immigration lawyers? | – experience, – professionalism, – affordable costs, – complete legal services |
Table of Contents
Who can retire to Malta? Are there any nationality restrictions?
Both EU and non-EU citizens can retire to Malta. There are no nationality restrictions imposed.
Is MRP available for Maltese residents?
No.
What are the key features of MRP in 2026?
- a popular relocation scheme that grants residency in Malta,
- a preferential tax scheme is offered,
- must have a pension when applying for MRP, etc.
We invite you to watch the following infographic with details about the benefits of retirement in Malta:
What are the key conditions to retire to Malta by accessing the MRP?
Applicants must:
- prove the source of income, respectively, the pension,
- spend at least 90 days/year in Malta,
- purchase a property of at least EUR 220,000 or rent one starting at EUR 8,750/year,
- present a health insurance policy with coverage in Malta and the EU,
- not working in Malta, etc.
NOTES:
- if working in Malta through the retirement program is not possible, applicants can accept non-executive board positions or participate in research activities, philanthropic events, etc.
- properties acquired in Malta when applying for MRP cannot be sub-rented.
Is a clear criminal record required when applying for the retirement scheme in Malta?
Yes.
Do I need to open a bank account in Malta when retiring here?
It is not imposed but recommended.
Is a residence permit issued when accessing MRP?
Yes.
Can family members join the retirement scheme in Malta?
Yes: spouses, minor children, long-term partners, and in some situations, household staff.
IMPORTANT: The application for the retirement scheme in Malta requires the appointment of an Authorized Registered Agent first. He or she will be in charge of all procedures and formalities for retiring to Malta.
Please watch the following video presentation on this topic:
Is there a minimum annual tax payable when applying for MRP?
Yes, EUR 7,500 for the main applicant and extra fees for family members included in the program.
Is there an application fee imposed?
Yes, EUR 2,500.
Does accessing MRP offer permanent residency in Malta?
No. This program offers temporary residency, the main path to permanent residency.
Are there any precautions to consider when applying for a retirement scheme in Malta in 2026?
- the immigration authorities in Malta have strict background checks and can conduct specific due diligence verifications,
- applicants must obtain a police conduct certificate within 6 months of their arrival in Malta. The Commissioner for Revenue is the institution that makes such verifications and issues this kind of certificate.
How do I retire to Malta from the US?
Retiring in Malta as an American means providing information about personal finances. An income of at least USD 26,039 per year is required for US citizens retiring to Malta.
What is the time frame for getting an answer on an MRP in Malta?
About 3 months. A Letter of Approval will be issued first.
Is MRP destined for High-Net-Worth Individuals?
No.
What are the tax benefits for retirees in Malta in 2026?
15% tax rate on foreign pension income.
Are there any city recommendations for retiring in Malta?
Gozo, Qrendi, Luqa, Gudja, Cospicua, Safi, Kirkop, Kalkara, Paola, Tarxien, and Zabbar are a few of the cities part of the MRP Program.
What are the benefits of MRP in 2026?
- no wealth or inheritance tax imposed,
- visa-free travel throughout the countries of the Schengen Area,
- flexible residence regulations,
- English-speaking country, etc.
Foreign citizens interested in the Retirement Scheme in Malta are invited to speak with one of our immigration lawyers in Malta to learn more about the conditions involved. Please feel free to contact us to learn how you can relocate to Malta via available routes.