Malta Startup
Residence Programme
In order to facilitate the migration process for non-EU entrepreneurs, the Malta Startup Residence Programme grants a three-year residence permit (which may be extended to five years), during which beneficiaries are able to reside in Malta while launching their startup venture.
This ensures a seamless residency period that provides peace of mind to entrepreneurs, while they focus on launching their business or direct their energy towards scaling up.
The programme is run by Residency Malta and Malta Enterprise, and is open to founders, co-founders, core employees and immediate family members. The Malta Startup Residence Programme offers beneficiaries long-term business and family stability, as well as the opportunity to attract and retain international talent, and reach business contacts across Europe through visa-free access to Schengen countries.
Eligibility Criteria for Founders
To be eligible, founders and co-founders must:
- Be an 18+ third country national (TCN) and not hail from non-eligible countries listed by Residency Malta from time to time
- Have a concrete intention to develop and/or expand a highly innovative business in Malta
- Be the founder or co-founder of an enterprise, which has been registered anywhere globally for seven years or less, has not taken over the activity of another enterprise, or formed through a merger
- Be fit-and-proper, of good conduct and pose no potential threat to national security, public policy, public health or public interest
- Be in possession of sufficient financial resources to support themselves and any dependants
- Must not have had previous applications for permanent residency, residency-by-investment or citizenship rejected in Malta or abroad
Investment and Programme Requirements
The Malta-incorporated startup is required to place a tangible investment and/or paid-up minimum share capital of €25,000. In cases where more than four co-founders apply, an additional €10,000 needs to be placed per additional co-founder. A maximum of six eligible co-founders is allowed.
The founder and/or co-founders that benefit from this programme need to have a physical and tangible presence in Malta, not only from a business point of view, but also in terms of living and paying taxes in Malta.
Applicants must also secure health insurance that covers risks in Malta, and other European countries, for themselves and any dependants.
Permit Duration, Renewal, and Fees
A residence permit will be issued for an initial period of three years. This can be renewed for a further five years (three years for core employees) as long as the startup is still operational, and the founder/co-founders still meet the Programme’s eligibility criteria. After five years residency, long-term residency may then be applied for.
A cost-competitive application fee of €750 per adult applies, in addition to a residency card fee of €82.50.
Why Launch Your Startup in Malta?
Choosing Malta as the home for your startup offers a strategic advantage in the heart of the Mediterranean. As a full EU member state, Malta provides a stable, English-speaking business environment with a highly skilled workforce. The nation boasts a burgeoning tech scene, robust government support for innovation, and a favourable tax system. Entrepreneurs benefit from a high quality of life, excellent connectivity to Europe and North Africa, and a secure and welcoming environment to grow their business and family.
Our Step-by-Step Application Guidance
Navigating the application process for the Malta Startup Residence Programme requires careful attention to detail. At Acumum, we simplify this journey for you. Our process includes:
Step one
Initial Consultation and Eligibility Check
We start with a thorough assessment of your business idea and personal circumstances to confirm your eligibility for the programme.
Step two
Business Plan Review
Our experts assist you in preparing and refining a comprehensive business plan that meets the stringent requirements of Malta Enterprise.
Step three
Document Collation and Submission
We guide you in gathering all necessary documentation, from personal records to financial statements, ensuring your application package is complete and accurate before submission to Residency Malta.
Step four
Agency Liaison and Follow-Up
We act as your dedicated point of contact, managing all communications with the relevant Maltese authorities and providing timely updates on your application’s progress.
Step five
Post-Approval Support
Once your permit is approved, we provide ongoing assistance with company incorporation, tax registration, and other relocation logistics to ensure a smooth transition to living and working in Malta.
Benefits for You and Your Family
The Malta Startup Residence Programme is designed to provide stability for you, your business, and your family. Key benefits include:
A 3-Year Residence Permit
Gain the security of a long-term residence permit, extendable for an additional 5 years.
Family Inclusion
Your spouse, financially dependent unmarried children, and financially dependent parents/grandparents can be included in the application.
Schengen Area Access
Enjoy visa-free travel throughout the 27 countries of the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
Path to Long-Term Residency
After legally residing in Malta for five years, you become eligible to apply for long-term residency status.
Access to Talent
Attract and retain key international talent by offering them residence permits as core employees of your startup.
