Buying real estate in Malta can be a smart investment and an excellent choice of lifestyle. But do it like a foreigner? This is a completely different process. If you are ready to stop looking for and start acting, you need clear answers. This leadership covers every critical step, from the right to get the keys in the hand.
Key basic points
- Find out which areas in Malta are available for foreign buyers and which are not.
- Understand how to apply for permission on AIP and what documents you need.
- Find out how much money you need in advance and what additional expenses to expect.
- Meet how real estate agencies work in Malta and what needs to be monitored.
- Read the tips under the agreement on how your final price with confidence.
Who can buy real estate in Malta?
Foreign citizens can buy real estate in Malta, but there are rules. EU citizens and Countries are not in the EU They turn on the same. If you are not the Maltese, you will either need a permit for AIP, or you will receive qualifications for exceptions.
Key conditions:
- If you are an EU citizen who has continuously lived in Malta for more than five years, you can buy real estate without restrictions.
- If you buy your primary place of residence and are busy or work not for hiring on Malta, you are also exempted from restrictions.
- All other cases require AIP permission (acquisition of real estate).
You cannot just buy a house on the island. Certain properties are limited. That is why the knowledge of which areas fall under special prescribed areas (SDA) is vital.
These are investment zones approved by the government, where foreigners can buy with fewer restrictions. SDA includes popular places, such as Tigné Point in Sliema, Fort Cambridge and Portomaso in Saint -Julian.
How to choose the right location
Malta is small, but the lifestyle varies depending on where you live. Want peace and space? Look at the northern and central parts. Need nightlife And the walking cafe? Then Sliema or St. Julian's can be suitable.
Buying in heavy tourist zones often means higher prices, but a higher rental potential. The south offers more traditional houses and a more calm atmosphere. Your choice should depend on whether you buy for life, rent or own a long -term increase in capital.
If you feel like overloaded location options, consider the possibility of working with a real estate expert who understands both local nuances and the requirements of foreign buyers. Excel Homes Malta Great choice. Their team offers free real estate assessment services and personalized tips without pressure.
The correct agent is not just an intermediary. They can agree on your behalf, show you the properties that correspond to your legal status, and maintain your serious stress.
Step 1: Start with AIP resolution (if necessary)
Non -residents who want to buy real estate outside SDA must apply for AIP permission. This step is not mandatory.
What do you need:
- Passport copy
- Detailed real estate information
- Proof of financing or Banking extracts
- Application form and 233 euros (irrevocable)
Expect that it will take up to 35 business days for approval. Without this, the purchase is legally invalid. You are allowed to have only one real estate if it is not in SDA or you will not start a licensed rental business.
Step 2: set your budget and prepare for costs
Buying in Malta is not only a requested price. You also need to take into account legal fees, Certificate debtAnd the fee for the agency.
Here is the destruction of typical costs:
| Type of value | The average range |
| Certificate debt | 5% of the purchased price |
| Notarial fees | 1-2% of the purchase price |
| AIP permission to obtain permission | € 233 (once) |
| Agency Payment | Usually paid by the seller (5% + VAT) |
| Architect's payment (optional) | 300-500 euros |
Save at least 7-10% higher than the price of real estate to cover all these costs. Keep your financing simple. Some banks offer home loans to foreigners, but not all. If you need a mortgage, you will get preliminary approval early.
Step 3: Provide the promise of sales (Convention)
As soon as you agree with the price with the seller, both sides sign Konvenju, which is a promise of sale. This is a mandatory agreement. You must put a 10% deposit to reserve property.
Then your notary:
- Perform legal searches
- Confirm the right of ownership
- Apply for AIP if necessary
- Set the final date of the contract (usually within 3 months)
From this moment it becomes difficult to retreat without losing a deposit. Make sure everything is checked before signing.
Step 4: Close the transaction with the final case
When all the legal checks are completed, and you are ready to finance, the time has come for the final business. This signing usually takes place in the office of your notary public with the seller. After signing:
- You pay the remaining balance
- The keys are transmitted
- The notary registers the sale in the state registry
Congratulations – the property is now legally yours.
Ordinary mistakes, for the first time buyers make
Buying in Malta as a foreigner can be simple, but mistakes are time and money. Avoid this:
- Skip the notary: You need your own. Do not rely on the seller’s notary.
- Do not check the right to participate in SDA: Not all areas are open to foreign property.
- Cost underestimation: Taxes and legal fees are quickly compiled.
- Rush with offers: Some sellers inflate prices when they hear a “foreign buyer”.
- Assuming that verbal transactions are final: Only the signed Convent on protects you.
What type of real estate can you buy?
Foreigners are allowed to buy:
- Apartments
- Maisonettes
- Villa
- Pentus
- Farm houses (in some cases)
But if you buy outside the SDA, and you are not an EU citizen living in Malta in the long run, then this is only one property. There are no holiday houses. There is no lease if you do not receive a license as a lessor.
What happens after the purchase?
As soon as you consolidate the act, you need to take care:
- Registration of utilities (water and electricity)
- Weapon account setup (to avoid tourist tariffs)
- Subsequent tax and debt payments
- Furniture or repair plans (if necessary)
You can immediately move or rent – depending on the type of permission and license. Some areas generate strong profitability of lease from workers and students of expanses, so the return can be reliable.
The last thoughts
Malta offers a rare combination European lifestyleEnglish -speaking locals and laws favorable for investors. But buying your first real estate as a foreigner means more than just sending money and signing documents. You need a guide, legal support and a good understanding of what your rights begin and end.
Start early. Ask questions. Work with people who know the process inside out. Buying in Malta should not be difficult – if you follow every step without missing the details.
