Given the local tendency to value home ownership and the limited supply of property on the small islands, Malta restricts the sale of real estate to non-residents to just one residential property.
While Maltese and European Union citizens who have lived in Malta for at least five continuous years can purchase an unlimited amount of real estate, those who do not meet this condition must obtain an Acquisition of Immovable Property (AIP) permit before being able to buy a second residential property. It is worth noting that no such permit is required when buying property for commercial use.
Non-EU buyers face further restrictions, requiring an AIP permit to buy any property outside Special Designated Areas (SDAs). They can only acquire commercial real estate for specific (albeit broad) reasons.
Beneficiaries of Malta’s various residency schemes are also largely exempt from the AIP requirement.
A reliable property consultant can provide further guidance.
