Patricia Casaburi
A Malta immigration lawyer is a licensed professional who helps people move to Malta by guiding them through the country’s visa, residency, and citizenship programs.
Whether you are relocating for work, retirement, investment, or family reasons, an immigration lawyer helps you understand which program is right for you, prepares your application, makes sure all your documents meet Maltese requirements, and communicates with government agencies on your behalf. They also support you after you arrive by helping you register for tax, open bank accounts, renew permits, and stay compliant with the law.
In this article, we will explain the services a Malta immigration lawyer can offer, the types of programs they work with, and how to choose the right lawyer for your move.
What does a Malta Immigration Lawyer do?
A Malta immigration lawyer helps people and families move to Malta through legal programs like residency, citizenship by investment, retirement, or work visas. They guide you through each step of the process, making sure your application follows all the legal rules, is complete, and is submitted correctly.
This is especially important in Malta, where the government uses one of the strictest due diligence systems in the world. A lawyer helps you prepare financial records, background checks, and legal documents to meet these high standards. They can also assist with real estate contracts, AIP permits, and working with notaries if you’re buying or renting property and talk directly to government authorities like Identity Malta, the Residency Malta Agency and Community Malta Agency (CMA).
Services Offered by a Malta Immigration Lawyer
Moving to Malta can be a big step, and a Malta immigration lawyer helps make the process easier. They guide you through every stage from choosing the right visa to handling documents and speaking with the government. Here are the main services they offer.
1. Eligibility assessment
Before starting any application, a Malta immigration lawyer will assess your background, financial status, and goals to determine which immigration route fits best.
This saves time and avoids applying for the wrong program or being rejected due to overlooked conditions.
2. Application preparation and submission
Your lawyer prepares your full application package, including financial documents, police clearance certificates, health insurance, and proof of accommodation. They ensure all paperwork is complete and compliant with Maltese law before submission.
3. Legal review of documents
Immigration lawyers verify that all documents, especially those coming from foreign countries, are properly translated, apostilled, and legally valid in Malta. This step is critical to pass Malta’s strict due diligence processes.
4. Malta’s four-tier due diligence process
Malta has one of the strictest due diligence systems in the world. It includes four levels of background checks:
- Identity and document checks
- International screening through databases and watchlists
- Deep financial and source of funds investigations
- Final risk assessment by the Maltese government agencies
A Malta immigration lawyer helps by carefully reviewing your documents, making sure your source of income is clearly explained, and preparing all the required declarations. They also answer any questions the authorities may have during this process and help you stay compliant.
5. Property and Investment Guidance
For residency or citizenship by investment, your lawyer plays a key role in reviewing or drafting lease or purchase agreements to make sure they meet program rules. They perform legal checks on the property, review title deeds to confirm ownership and any restrictions, and assist in obtaining the required Acquisition of Immovable Property (AIP) permit from the Maltese authorities.
Your lawyer also works closely with licensed notaries to complete the transaction, guaranteeing that all legal documents are correctly prepared, signed, and registered according to Maltese law. This support helps avoid delays or legal issues that could affect your immigration application.
6. Communication with authorities
A Malta immigration lawyer is your point of contact with government offices. They handle correspondence, respond to follow-up requests, and represent you in case of clarifications or delays from agencies like Identity Malta, Residency Malta and Community Malta Agency.
7. Post-approval services
Once your residency or citizenship is granted, your lawyer helps you:
- Register for a Maltese tax number (TIN).
- Set up personal or family bank accounts.
- Renew permits and comply with ongoing residency rules.
- File any required tax declarations or assist with fiscal planning to ensure tax compliance based on your global income.
These post-approval services are especially valuable for families or investors relocating permanently.
To learn more about the Malta Permanent Residency by Investment Program
Malta Immigration Programs
A Malta immigration lawyer’s job is more than just filling out forms. They help you choose the right program, make sure your documents meet the legal requirements, and guide you step by step through the whole process.
If you are working with a Malta Golden Visa lawyer for residency under the MPRP or a Malta citizenship by investment lawyer for the CES program, they make sure you meet all requirements and have all the documents needed.
Here are some of the immigration programs an immigration lawyer can guide you with:
Program | Basic Requirements | Role of an Immigration Lawyer |
Malta Citizenship by Investment also known as Malta Citizen Naturalization for Exceptional Services (CES) | - Exceptional investment: €750,000 (12 months) or €600,000 (36 months). - Real estate: Rent for €16,000/year or buy a property worth €700,000 (kept for 5 years, no renting allowed). - Donation: €10,000 to an approved NGO. | - Advise on eligibility and timeline options. - Conduct legal due diligence on property. - Draft/review purchase or lease agreements for compliance. - Manage the full application to the Community Malta Agency (CMA). - Oversee the investment, donation, residence card, and citizenship oath process. - Assist with family applications and biometric appointments. |
Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) | Rental: Rent a property worth €14,000/year (5-year minimum), €60,000 government contribution €2,000 NGO donation. Purchase: Buy a property for €375,000 (held for 5 years, cannot rent), €30,000 government contribution €2,000 NGO donation. | - Explain the difference between rental vs purchase paths. - Handle property search, due diligence, and contract review. - Ensure compliance with non-rental clauses. - Submit the application to Residency Malta. - Coordinate biometric appointments, residence cards, and follow-up steps. - Advise on long-term obligations and renewals. |
- Buy property: €275,000 (Malta) or €220,000 (Gozo/south). - Or rent: €12,000/year (Malta) or €9,600/year (Gozo/south). - 15% tax rate on foreign income remitted to Malta. - Must not reside in another country for over 183 days/year. | - Assess eligibility based on income and tax residency. - Review and register property or lease contracts. - File application with the Inland Revenue Department. - Register special tax status. - Provide ongoing support for residency conditions and compliance audits. | |
- At least 75% of income must come from a pension. - Rent: €12,000/year (Malta) or €9,600/year (Gozo/south). - Or buy: €275,000 (Malta) or €220,000 (Gozo/south), held for 5 years. - 15% tax rate on pension income remitted to Malta. | - Verify pension income and retirement eligibility. - Assist with lease/purchase agreements. - File full application and supporting documents. - Register tax residency and flat rate pension tax. - Assist with renewals and long-term compliance. | |
- Minimum income of €42,000/year. - Must be employed or self-employed with clients outside Malta. - Must rent property in Malta (purchase not required). - Full health insurance and clean criminal record needed. | - Verify remote income source and employment structure. - Prepare and review rental agreements. - File an application with Residency Malta. - Ensure documentation (contracts, insurance, income proof) is valid. - Help with residence card issuance and renewals. - Advise on potential tax implications and digital compliance. |
How to Find the Best Immigration Lawyer in Malta
Finding the best Malta immigration lawyer can make a big difference in the success and simplicity of your application. Here are the aspects to look out for:
1. Look for specialization in Maltese immigration law
Not every lawyer is trained in immigration. Choose a lawyer or law firm that specializes in Malta’s immigration programs. They should understand the specific program requirements, legal timelines, and compliance rules.
Reputable immigration agencies like Global Citizen Solutions have immigration lawyers who are highly knowledgeable in Maltese laws and residency programs, to guide applicants through all the legal and procedural requirements from start to finish
To learn more about the Malta Citizenship by Investment Program
2. Check if they are licensed and registered
Make sure the lawyer is licensed to practice in Malta and ideally registered with the Community Malta Agency (CMA) or Residency Malta Agency (RMA) if they handle citizenship or residence programs. Ask for their license number or verify through official websites.
3. Verify experience with property and investments
If you’re applying through a program that involves real estate (e.g., CES or MPRP), your lawyer should:
- Help draft or review lease or purchase agreements
- Work with notaries and real estate agents
- Conduct title checks and apply for AIP permits if you’re not an EU/EEA/Swiss national
4. Look at client reviews and case outcomes
Search for online reviews, testimonials, or case studies. Good lawyers or firms often have detailed examples of successful applications or are mentioned in reputable media and immigration blogs.
5. Request a clear fee structure
Avoid hidden costs. Ask for a detailed quote upfront that breaks down:
- Legal fees
- Application fees
- Government contributions
- Real estate processing or notary fees
You want someone transparent and honest about costs and timelines.
6. Evaluate communication and responsiveness
Your lawyer will be your direct link to Maltese immigration authorities. Choose someone who:
- Responds quickly to emails or messages
- Speaks clear English
- Updates you regularly on your case
As part of our commitment to providing transparent and reliable services, we are proud to be a licensed agent in Malta, holding the official license number AKM-AGEN. This certification demonstrates our dedication to the highest standards in the investment migration industry and further enhances our ability to offer expert guidance and support to our clients.
How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?
Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique migration consultancy firm with years of experience delivering bespoke residence and citizenship by investment solutions for international families. With offices worldwide and an experienced, hands-on team, we have helped hundreds of clients worldwide acquire citizenship, residence visas, or homes while diversifying their portfolios with robust investments.
We guide you from start to finish, taking you beyond your citizenship or residency by investment application.
Frequently asked Questions about Malta Immigration Lawyer
What does a Malta immigration lawyer do?
A Malta immigration lawyer helps individuals and families apply for residency, citizenship, or visas. They prepare documents, ensure legal compliance, and communicate with Maltese government agencies on your behalf.
Do I need a lawyer for Malta Golden Visa or Citizenship by Investment?
Yes, legal representation is essential for these programs. Lawyers guide you through Malta’s strict due diligence, review investment agreements, and ensure all requirements are met.
How do I choose the right immigration lawyer in Malta?
Look for lawyers who specialize in Malta’s immigration laws and are familiar with programs like the CES and MPRP. Agencies like Global Citizen Solutions offer licensed experts with local legal experience.
How much does a Malta immigration lawyer cost?
Fees vary depending on the service, such as application support, due diligence, or property handling. Costs are typically higher for investment based routes due to complexity and legal responsibilities.
Can a Malta immigration lawyer help with buying property?
Yes. Lawyers handle contract review, title checks, AIP permit applications, and work with notaries to complete the purchase according to Maltese law.
What documents will my lawyer need from me?
You’ll need to provide identification, proof of income or assets, police clearance, medical insurance, and legal documents for dependents if applying as a family.
Are Malta immigration lawyers licensed?
Yes. Reputable lawyers must be registered with the Malta Chamber of Advocates or affiliated with regulated immigration firms. Always verify credentials before hiring.
Can they help after I get residency or citizenship?
Absolutely. Lawyers assist with tax registration, bank accounts, renewals, compliance reporting, and family relocation services even after approval.
