Citizens of all European Union member states who have resided in Malta continuously for a minimum period of five years at any time preceding the date of acquisition, may freely acquire immovable property without the necessity of obtaining a permit under Chapter 246 of the Laws of Malta.
Citizens of all European Union member states, who have not resided continuously in Malta for a minimum period of five years, may only purchase their primary residence or any immovable property required for their business activities or supply of services without the necessity of obtaining a permit under Chapter 246 of the Laws of Malta.
Citizens of all European Union member states, who have not resided continuously in Malta for a minimum period of five years, require a permit under Chapter 246 of the Laws of Malta to acquire immovable property for secondary residence purposes.
Individuals who are not citizens of a European Member state may not acquire any immovable property unless they are granted a permit in terms of Chapter 246 of the Laws of Malta.
There are defined zones in Mata, referred to as special designated areas, where there are absolutely no restrictions to acquisition. There is also no restriction on acquisition through inheritance and there are also several other special exemptions. Different rules apply to the acquisition by bodies of persons.