FAQ
Common questions.
How much income do I need for the Malta retirement visa?
There is no set figure. Your pension must make up at least 75% of your taxable income, and all of it must be paid into Malta. You pay at least EUR 7,500 tax a year, plus EUR 500 for each dependant.
Is there an age limit for the Malta retirement visa?
The rules set no age, but you must receive a pension.
What do I need for the Malta retirement visa?
The official page asks for: a home in Malta you own or rent at the minimum price or rent, proof of pension, health insurance, special tax status certificate from the Commissioner for Revenue and registered lease or purchase deed.
Do I need health insurance?
Health insurance with at least EUR 100,000 of cover, for outpatient and hospital care in Malta and other European countries.
Can I work on the Malta retirement visa?
You may not be in a job. The rules allow only a non-executive board seat or work for a public charity, education or research body.
How long do I need to spend in Malta?
The tax status ends if you live in Malta for less than 90 days a year on average over 5 years, or spend more than 183 days in another country in a calendar year. The residence permit depends on this status.
Does the Malta retirement visa lead to permanent residence?
The official pages do not set out a path to permanent residence from this permit. The retirement tax status ends if you become a long-term resident of Malta.
How long does the Malta retirement visa last?
The official page does not say how long the first permit lasts. Yes, renewals are issued for 2 years at a time.
How much does the Malta retirement visa cost?
EUR 2,500 to apply to the Commissioner for Revenue for the tax status, then EUR 100 for the residence permit.
Who can apply for the Malta retirement visa?
Open to people from outside the EU, the EEA and Switzerland. Retired people who live on a pension, are not in a job, and have been granted the special tax status of the Malta Retirement Programme.
Can I bring my family?
A spouse or partner, minor children and adult children who cannot support themselves because of serious illness or disability can be included.
How do I apply?
First apply to the Commissioner for Revenue for the tax status, through a registered agent such as a lawyer or accountant. Then apply online to Identità for the residence permit.
Sources
- Malta: Economically self-sufficient residence permit under the Malta Retirement Programme (identita.gov.mt)
- Malta: Economically self-sufficient residence permit under the Malta Retirement Programme (legislation.mt)
- Malta: Economically self-sufficient residence permit under the Malta Retirement Programme (mtca.gov.mt)
General information, not legal advice. Last checked 11 Oct 2026.