What is the AIP permit in Malta?

The AIP (Acquisition of Immovable Property) permit is a government permit required for most non-EU nationals and non-resident EU citizens to buy property in Malta. It is issued by the Malta Tax and Customs Administration (MTCA). The permit limits non-EU buyers to purchasing one property for personal residential use, unless they qualify for an exemption.

How much does the AIP permit cost?

The AIP permit application fee is approximately €230 (as of 2026). This is paid to the Malta Tax and Customs Administration. Verify the current fee at mtca.gov.mt before applying.

How long does the AIP permit take?

The AIP permit typically takes 4–12 weeks to process. Your notary or legal representative can track progress with the MTCA. The promise of sale (konvenju) period is used to wait for the permit while securing the property.

Is there a minimum price for AIP permit property?

Yes. For non-EU buyers, there is a minimum purchase price threshold for AIP permit properties. The threshold applies to ensure the permit is used for genuine residential purposes rather than speculation. Verify current thresholds with the MTCA or your notary, as these can be updated.

AIP Permit Malta: Who Needs It and How to Apply 2026

The Acquisition of Immovable Property permit is required by most foreign nationals to buy property in Malta. This guide explains who is exempt, how to apply, what documents are needed, and how long it takes.

Official SourceLast updated 9 June 2026

What is the AIP permit?

The Acquisition of Immovable Property (AIP) permit is a Maltese government permission that allows foreign nationals to purchase property in Malta. It was introduced to manage foreign property ownership on the small island and continues to apply to most non-EU buyers and some EU buyers.

The permit is issued by the Malta Tax and Customs Administration (MTCA) and is usually processed by the buyer’s notary as part of the conveyancing process.

Who needs the AIP permit

Buyer profile	AIP required?
EU/EEA citizen, 5+ years continuous residence in Malta	No
EU/EEA citizen, fewer than 5 years in Malta, first property	Yes
EU/EEA citizen buying a second property in Malta	Yes
Non-EU national in any situation	Yes
Any buyer — property in a Special Designated Area (SDA)	No

MTCAVerify your eligibility with a Maltese notary. Last verified: 2026-06-09.

Property restrictions under the AIP permit

For non-EU nationals, the AIP permit is generally issued subject to these conditions:

The property must be used as the applicant’s primary or sole residence in Malta.
The property may not be let or used for commercial purposes unless a separate permit is obtained.
A minimum purchase price threshold applies (verify current threshold with MTCA).
Only one property per AIP permit, unless the applicant qualifies for an exemption.

Special Designated Areas bypass the AIP requirement

Buying in a government-approved Special Designated Area (SDA) exempts any buyer — regardless of nationality or residency — from the AIP requirement. SDAs include Portomaso, Tigne Point, Fort Cambridge, and others. See the buying property guide for the full SDA list.

Documents typically required

Completed AIP permit application form (your notary will provide this)
Copy of passport (all pages with data)
Proof of personal details (birth certificate or equivalent, translated if not in English or Maltese)
Copy of the promise of sale (konvenju) for the target property
Details of the property (address, description, purchase price)
Application fee payment (approx. €230)

Your Maltese notary will guide you through the exact current requirements and submit the application on your behalf.

How the AIP permit fits into the purchase timeline

Accepted offer — agree price and terms with the vendor.
Promise of sale (konvenju) — signed and 10% deposit paid. AIP application submitted at this stage.
AIP permit processing — typically 4–12 weeks.
Due diligence — notary verifies title and encumbrances during the waiting period.
Final deed — signed once AIP permit is granted. Full purchase price paid. Title transferred.

AIP fee and thresholds change

The AIP permit fee and minimum price thresholds are set by regulation and may be updated. Always verify the current figures at mtca.gov.mt or with your notary before budgeting.

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Maintained by MaltaPathway

This guide is written from public official sources and labelled limitations. MaltaPathway is independent, not a law firm or government agency. Founder proof, source policy, correction policy, and monetization disclosure live on the About and trust page.

Sources

Official SourceAcquisition of Immovable Property in Malta by Non-ResidentsVerified 9 Jun 2026

Official SourceAIP Permit — Acquisition of Immovable Property by Non-ResidentsVerified 9 Jun 2026

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MaltaPathway is not a law firm, immigration consultancy, or government agency. The information on this page is based on publicly available official sources and is provided for informational purposes only. Immigration rules change — always verify with the relevant authority before making decisions. If your case is complex, consult a licensed immigration lawyer.