How does Malta’ residence-by-investment program compares with other European residency programs and the Caribbean citizenship programs?

Malta had been offering residency schemes for high-net-worth individuals long before other European residence programs were launched. The Malta Permanent Residence Program allows individuals and families to become residents in Malta, if they make a government contribution and lease/buy a property. The program has its advantages and limitations:

Advantages:

1- Straightforward investment requirements. Less initial outlay (expenditure) if the applicants opt for leasing a property;

2- Right to reside and settle in Malta permanently from day 1. Unlike other European programs, Malta directly offers indefinite residency from the beginning;

3- Visa-free travel across the Schengen area for 90 out of 180 days. However, the beneficiaries do not acquire right to settle in other Schengen/EU states automatically;

4- Possibility to include up to four generations in a single application;

5- Access to business and investment opportunities in Malta.

Limitations:

a) Acquisition of Maltese citizenship is not possible through this program. Malta has a separate program for citizenship;

b) Although the beneficiaries get indefinite (permanent) residence, they need to get private health insurance.

Maltese residency program is a decent option for someone wishing to have a second residency with access to Europe, knowing that it wouldn’t lead to citizenship.