Can non-EU nationals buy property in Malta?

Yes, but most non-EU nationals require an AIP (Acquisition of Immovable Property) permit from the Malta Tax and Customs Administration before completing a purchase. EU citizens with five or more years of continuous residence in Malta are exempt. Properties in Special Designated Areas are exempt from the AIP requirement for all buyers.

How much does it cost to buy property in Malta?

In addition to the purchase price, buyers pay: 5% stamp duty on the purchase price, notary fees (typically 1–2% of purchase price), estate agent fee (1–5% typically paid by vendor, but verify), and AIP permit fee (~€230 if required). A solicitor or conveyancer may also charge additional fees.

What is a Special Designated Area in Malta?

Special Designated Areas (SDAs) are specific new-build residential developments approved for unrestricted foreign purchase without an AIP permit. Examples include Portomaso (St Julians), Tigne Point (Sliema), and Fort Cambridge. SDAs are typically high-end developments.

How long does it take to buy property in Malta?

From accepted offer to completion typically takes 3–6 months. The AIP permit process (if required) adds approximately 4–12 weeks. The process involves a promise of sale (konvenju), which locks in the price while due diligence and permits are processed, followed by the final deed.

Buying Property in Malta as a Foreigner: 2026 Guide

The step-by-step process for foreign nationals purchasing property in Malta — from AIP permit to notarial deed, including all costs and the Special Designated Areas exemption.

Official SourceLast updated 9 June 2026

AIP permit required for most foreign buyers

Most non-EU nationals and EU citizens without five years’ continuous residence in Malta need an AIP permit. Always confirm your eligibility with a Maltese notary or legal adviser before making an offer. See the AIP permit guide.

Who can buy freely — and who needs the AIP permit

Buyer profile	AIP permit required?
EU citizen with 5+ years continuous residence in Malta	No
EU citizen with fewer than 5 years continuous residence	Yes (for first property only — one property limit applies)
EU citizen buying a second property in Malta	Yes
Non-EU national (any situation)	Yes — unless property is in a Special Designated Area
Any buyer — property in a Special Designated Area (SDA)	No

MTCA / AIP regulationsLast verified: 2026-06-09. Verify current rules with a Maltese notary.

The purchase process step by step

Find a property and make an offer.Most sellers use a registered estate agent. You can also search portals directly and deal with the vendor’s agent.
Appoint a notary.In Malta, a notary handles both conveyancing and legal due diligence. You may appoint your own notary, or use the vendor’s — but having independent legal representation is recommended for foreign buyers.
Sign a promise of sale (konvenju). This locks in the price and terms while due diligence is completed. A deposit (typically 10% of purchase price) is paid at this stage. If you withdraw, you lose the deposit. If the vendor withdraws, they must repay double.
Apply for the AIP permit (if required). Your notary will typically manage this. Turnaround is approximately 4–12 weeks. See the AIP permit guide.
Complete due diligence. The notary verifies title, confirms no encumbrances, and checks planning permissions. This happens during the konvenju period.
Sign the final deed (konvenju publiku). Both parties sign before the notary. The full purchase price is paid. Stamp duty and notary fees are settled at or shortly after completion.
Register with the Land Registry. The notary files the deed with the Land Registry to formally transfer title.

Total purchase costs

Cost	Rate / amount	Who pays
Stamp duty	5% of purchase price	Buyer
Notary fee	1–2% of purchase price	Buyer
AIP permit application fee	~€230	Buyer (if applicable)
Land Registry fee	Variable (usually €50–€500+)	Buyer
Estate agent fee	1–5% of purchase price	Usually vendor

MTCAEstimates based on published rates as of June 2026. Confirm with your notary. Last verified: 2026-06-09.

Special Designated Areas (SDAs)

SDAs are specific high-end residential developments where foreign buyers can purchase without an AIP permit and without property-number restrictions. Examples include:

Portomaso — St Julians
Tigne Point — Sliema
Fort Cambridge — Sliema
Cottonera Waterfront — Cottonera
Pender Gardens — St Julians
Smart City Malta — Kalkara
Ta’ Monita Residence — Marsaxlokk

Properties in SDAs are typically new-build apartments and tend to be priced above the general market. They are popular with investors and foreign buyers who want to avoid the AIP permit process.

Verify SDA status of any property

The official list of SDAs can change. Before purchasing in a development marketed as an SDA, verify its current designated status with the Malta Tax and Customs Administration or your notary.

Stay updated on Malta policy changes

Get notified when immigration rules, fees, or deadlines change. No spam — only policy updates.

Unsubscribe anytime. We never share your email.

Author and editorial standard

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

Official SourceLand Registry MaltaVerified 9 Jun 2026

Official SourceReal Estate Agents Registration — MFHEAVerified 9 Jun 2026

Was this page helpful?

Found this useful? Share it:

ShareWhatsApp Facebook

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.