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Emigration

Malta Real Estate Market 2026: The Complete Guide for Foreign Buyers

by Philipp M. Sauerborn8 min read

Last updated: 10 February 2026

Status: March 2026 – The Maltese real estate market is recording stable price growth of 5.7% (NSO Malta RPPI, Q3 2025). Average price: EUR 3,300/m², Stamp Duty 5%, no annual property tax, 15% flat tax on rental income. This guide explains prices, taxes, the buying process, and the best areas to live – from the perspective of a tax advisor based in Malta.

When it comes to the Maltese real estate market, you'll find plenty of half-truths and glossy agent brochures. What's missing is an honest assessment – especially from a tax perspective.

That is exactly what I want to provide in this article.

I have lived and worked in Malta since 2011. As a tax advisor at Dr. Werner & Partners, I advise international clients who are moving to Malta or looking to invest here. And one question comes up time and again:

"Is it worth buying property in Malta?"

The answer, as always, is: It depends. It depends on your situation, your goals, and above all, how you structure the purchase for tax purposes.

For the market side of things, I've brought in my colleague Mark Molnar from Let Buy Mark – one of the most experienced real estate agents for international buyers in Malta. Mark provides the market expertise; I provide the tax context.

Together, we have put together a guide that goes far beyond what you'll find on the usual property portals. With current figures, concrete tax comparisons, and the perspective of someone who has known the Maltese market for over a decade.

Malta Real Estate at a Glance

Average Price
EUR 3,300/m² (NSO Malta, Q3 2025)
Top Locations
Sliema & St. Julian's: EUR 3,500–4,500/m²
Stamp Duty
5% (First-Time Buyers: first 200k tax-free)
Annual Property Tax
None (EUR 0)
Rental Income Tax
15% Flat Tax on gross rent
Buying Costs
7–9% of purchase price
Time to Buy
8–12 weeks (POS to Final Deed)
SDAs for Foreigners
14 zones with no buying restrictions

Chapter 1

Current State of the Malta Real Estate Market

Market Situation 2026

The Maltese real estate market remains robust in early 2026. The Residential Property Price Index (RPPI) from the National Statistics Office Malta stood at 174.63 points in the third quarter of 2025 – an increase of 5.7% compared to the previous year (NSO Malta, RPPI Q3/2025).

For comparison: The EU average was 5.4% over the same period (Eurostat Housing Price Statistics, Q2 2025). Malta is growing slightly above average, but without the overheating we see in markets like Portugal (+17.7%) or the Netherlands. For those wondering whether Malta or Cyprus is the better choice: Cyprus is currently stagnating at -1.0% – a clear difference.

What Drives Growth?

Three factors are driving demand:

  1. iGaming and Fintech: Malta is the hub of the European online gaming industry. Thousands of high-earning professionals move to the island every year.
  2. Remote Workers and Digital Nomads: Since 2021, Malta has offered a specific visa for digital nomads. By mid-2025, the number of registered rental contracts exceeded 70,000.
  3. Limited Supply: Malta has a land area of just 316 km². That's smaller than the Isle of Wight. New housing space is limited – so prices remain stable.

Malta vs. UK Economy

What surprises many is that despite stable growth, Malta isn't an overheated market. With GDP growth of 4.1% (2025) and a forecast of 4.0% for 2026, economic development is significantly stronger than the UK's 1.5%. Transaction volume rose to 9,788 sales in the first three quarters of 2025 (+4.6% year-on-year) with a total value of EUR 2.89 billion.

Most British clients who come to Malta are surprised by how quickly the buying process moves. From the first viewing to moving in, it often takes just 10–12 weeks.

Mark MolnarFounder, Let Buy Mark

Chapter 2

Best Places to Live in Malta

The Best Residential Areas

Malta is small – yet there are significant differences between regions. Not just in price, but in lifestyle. Here is an honest overview of the most popular residential areas.

Sliema

Sliema is what you might call the "prime location." Situated directly on the seafront promenade, with countless cafes, restaurants, and shops. Most of the expats I know live here.

Purchase Prices: EUR 3,500–4,500/m² | Rent (2 BR): EUR 1,200–1,800/month

St. Julian's

St. Julian's is the business and financial hub of Malta. This is where the big iGaming companies are based, where the nightlife is, and where life pulses. If you're young and want to be in the middle of the action, this is the place – it's no coincidence that many poker players move to Malta. St. Julian's is also home to most Special Designated Areas (SDAs), making purchasing particularly straightforward for foreigners.

Purchase Prices: EUR 3,500–4,500/m² | Rent (2 BR): EUR 1,300–2,000/month

Valletta

The UNESCO World Heritage capital has transformed enormously in recent years. The once somewhat sleepy old town has become a vibrant cultural centre. Prices have risen accordingly – Valletta is now the most expensive location on the island.

Purchase Prices: EUR 4,000–5,500/m² | Rent (2 BR): EUR 1,100–1,600/month

Gzira

Gzira is centrally located between Sliema and Valletta and offers good value for money. The area is multicultural, with a growing expat community. For families and couples who want to live centrally without paying Sliema prices, it's a solid choice.

Purchase Prices: EUR 3,000–3,500/m² | Rent (2 BR): EUR 1,000–1,400/month

Mellieha

If you're looking for peace and quiet but still want to be near the beach, you'll like Mellieha. Located in the north of the island, with Malta's largest sandy bay, it is ideal for families and retirees. Prices are significantly lower than in Sliema or St. Julian's.

Purchase Prices: EUR 2,000–2,800/m² | Rent (2 BR): EUR 800–1,200/month

Msida

Msida is home to the University of Malta and is correspondingly multicultural. Well-located for commuters, with mid-range prices. Not the most picturesque area, but practical.

Purchase Prices: EUR 2,500–3,500/m² | Rent (2 BR): EUR 900–1,300/month

Gozo – The More Affordable Alternative

The smaller sister island of Gozo is the rural side of Malta. Less traffic, more nature, significantly lower prices. If you don't have to commute to Malta daily, you'll find excellent value for money here. Plus: 7 of the 14 SDAs are located on Gozo.

Purchase Prices: EUR 1,500–2,200/m² | Rent (2 BR): EUR 600–1,000/month

Prices as of Q3 2025 – Sources: NSO Malta, Frank Salt Real Estate, Investropa
RegionBuy EUR/m²Rent (2 BR)CharacterIdeal For
Sliema3,500–4,5001,200–1,800 EURUrban, PromenadeProfessionals, Couples
St. Julian's3,500–4,5001,300–2,000 EURFinance Hub, NightlifeYoung Professionals
Valletta4,000–5,5001,100–1,600 EURUNESCO, HistoricCulture Lovers
Gzira3,000–3,5001,000–1,400 EURCentral, AffordableExpat Families
Mellieha2,000–2,800800–1,200 EURBeach, QuietFamilies, Retirees
Msida2,500–3,500900–1,300 EURMulticultural, UniStudents, Commuters
Gozo1,500–2,200600–1,000 EURRural, NaturePeace Seekers

Sliema and St. Julian's remain the most sought-after locations. But if you want a quieter life, take a look at Mellieha or Gozo – you get significantly more for the same budget there.

Mark MolnarFounder, Let Buy Mark

Chapter 3

Buying Property in Malta as a Foreigner

What Foreign Buyers Need to Know

As an EU/UK citizen, you can generally buy property in Malta. However, different rules apply depending on where you buy. The most important term you need to know is: Special Designated Areas (SDAs).

Special Designated Areas (SDAs) – Where You Can Buy Without a Permit

SDAs are 14 designated zones where both EU and non-EU citizens can purchase property without restrictions. No AIP permit (more on that in a moment), no quantity limits, no waiting.

7 SDAs on Malta:

  1. Portomaso Development (St. Julian's)
  2. Spinola (St. Julian's)
  3. Portomaso Extension I (St. Julian's)
  4. Pender Place Extensions I–V (St. Julian's)
  5. Pender Place Extension VI (St. Julian's)
  6. Mercury House Zone (St. Julian's)
  7. The Shoreline Residences, Smart City Malta (Kalkara)

7 SDAs on Gozo: 8. Rabat Gozo 9. Triq Wied Sara (Rabat) 10. Gozo Innovation Hub (Xewkija) 11. Triq il-Pitkalija (Xewkija) 12. Villa Stellini (Santa Lucia) 13. St. Mary Flats (Zebbug) 14. Fontana (Entrance)

Good to Know

In Special Designated Areas, you can buy as many properties as you like – without an AIP permit and without waiting. Outside of SDAs, you are generally limited to one property (Chapter 246, Laws of Malta).

AIP Permit: Buying Outside SDAs

If you want to buy outside an SDA – for example in Sliema, Valletta, or Mellieha – you will need an AIP permit (Acquisition of Immovable Property Permit). The facts:

  • Fee: EUR 233 upon approval
  • Processing Time: 4–8 weeks
  • Restriction: Maximum of one property for personal residential use
  • Exception: EU citizens who have lived in Malta for at least 5 years do not need an AIP

The AIP is applied for at the Ministry for Transport, Infrastructure and Capital Projects. The process is straightforward but requires a little patience.

EU Citizens vs. Non-EU Citizens (including UK)

Buyer GroupIn SDAOutside SDA
EU Citizens (<5 years residence)No AIP needed, unlimitedAIP required, max. 1 property
EU Citizens (5+ years residence)No AIP needed, unlimitedNo AIP needed
Non-EU / UK CitizensNo AIP needed, unlimitedAIP required, max. 1 property

I generally recommend my clients buy within an SDA. Not just because you avoid the AIP requirement, but also because you can purchase unlimited additional properties there for investment purposes.

Philipp M. SauerbornTax Advisor, Dr. Werner & Partners

Chapter 4

The Buying Process Step-by-Step

How the Purchase Works

The buying process in Malta is relatively fast and unbureaucratic compared to many other countries. Usually, only 10–12 weeks pass between the first viewing and moving in. Here is the process in detail:

  1. Find a Property(1–4 weeks)

    Via agents, online portals (maltapark.com, remax.com.mt), or Facebook groups. Viewings are often possible on the same day – Malta is small.

  2. Sign Promise of Sale (Konvenju)(1 day)

    The preliminary contract is signed at the notary. 10% deposit and 1% provisional stamp duty are due. Important: Must be submitted to the Commissioner for Revenue within 21 days.

  3. Due Diligence by the Notary(8–10 weeks)

    The notary checks the land registry (Title Search), existing mortgages or encumbrances, and planning permits. For AIP properties: Apply for permit (EUR 233, 4–8 weeks).

  4. Secure Financing (if mortgage)(Parallel to Due Diligence)

    Apply for pre-approval at a Maltese bank. Loan-to-Value up to 80% for residents, 70–80% for non-residents. Current interest rate: approx. 2.85–4.0% (variable).

  5. Final Deed & Registration(1 day)

    Final contract at the notary. Balance payment plus 4% remaining stamp duty. The notary registers the property with the Land Registry within 15 days.

Watch the Deadline

The Promise of Sale must be submitted to the Commissioner for Revenue within 21 days. Late submission incurs a penalty of 20% of the stamp duty due.

Important: Choosing the Right Notary

In Malta, the buyer chooses the notary – and the notary represents your interests. Make sure to choose a notary who has experience with international buyers. I always tell my clients: Don't skimp on the notary.

Another key difference: The agent's fee is usually paid by the seller (3–5% + VAT). As a buyer, you generally don't pay an agent's commission. However, be careful with unlicensed providers – unfortunately, there are black sheep in Malta too.

Financing: Mortgages in Malta

All major Maltese banks grant mortgages to foreign buyers:

BankInterest Rate (variable)LTV ResidentsLTV Non-Residents
Bank of Vallettaapprox. 3.5%up to 80%70–80%
HSBC Maltaapprox. 2.85%up to 80%70–80%
APS Bankapprox. 3.5%up to 80%70–80%
MeDirectapprox. 4.0%up to 80%70–80%

Requirements: Proof of income, proof of address, and a Maltese bank account. Processing time usually runs parallel to the notary's due diligence.


Chapter 5

Taxes on Property Purchase and Ownership

The Tax Side – What I Look For as a Tax Advisor

Now we come to the part that distinguishes this article from the usual agent guides. As a tax advisor in Malta, I see every day how much money clients save – or lose – depending on how they structure their property purchase.

Stamp Duty: 5% and the Exceptions

Stamp Duty in Malta is 5% of the purchase price. Payment is made in two steps:

  • 1% provisional upon signing the Promise of Sale
  • 4% upon the Final Deed

There is a significant benefit for first-time buyers: The First-Time Buyer Scheme (permanent since Budget 2026) exempts the first EUR 200,000 of the purchase price from stamp duty. For an apartment costing EUR 300,000, you only pay stamp duty on EUR 100,000 – saving you EUR 10,000.

No Annual Property Tax

This is one of the biggest advantages compared to the UK or other European countries: Malta charges no annual property tax. No Council Tax, no wealth tax on real estate. Zero Euro. Every year.

In the UK, Council Tax can easily cost you £1,500–£3,000 per year. Over 20 years, that adds up to £30,000–£60,000. In Malta: EUR 0.

What many don't realize: Malta has no annual property tax. Combined with the 15% flat tax on rental income, this is a massive advantage compared to the UK tax burden.

Philipp M. SauerbornTax Advisor, Dr. Werner & Partners

Rental Income: The 15% Flat Tax

If you rent out your Malta property, you have two options for taxation:

Option 1 (Recommended): 15% Flat Tax on gross rental income. This tax is final – no further charges apply. No social security, no other levies. Just 15% and you're done. (Article 31D, Income Tax Act, Cap. 123)

Option 2: Progressive taxation of 0–35% according to standard tax rates.

In almost all cases, the 15% flat tax is the better choice. On a monthly rent of EUR 1,500, you pay EUR 225 in tax. In the UK, higher-rate taxpayers would pay 40% or even 45% on that income.

Capital Gains Tax: 8% on Sale

When selling a Malta property, a final withholding tax of 8% applies to the transfer value (sales price). For properties acquired before 2004, a rate of 12% applies; for restored UCA properties (Urban Conservation Areas), it's 10% (MTCA, Property Taxes).

Compare this to the UK, where Capital Gains Tax on residential property is 18% (basic rate) or 24% (higher rate).

Malta Limited or Private Individual?

A question I hear weekly: "Should I buy the property privately or through a Malta Limited?"

The honest answer: For tax purposes, it makes no difference. Stamp duty (5%), rental income (15% flat tax), and capital gains (8%) are identical for individuals and companies.

A Malta Limited only becomes worthwhile for larger portfolios with three or more rental properties – because of limited liability and easier transfer of shares. For a single apartment or house, buying as a private individual is almost always the better choice. If you are interested in setting up a company, check my article on common mistakes when forming a company in Malta.

The question "Should I buy privately or via a Limited?" comes up constantly. Tax-wise, it's the same. A Limited usually only makes sense if you have three or more rental properties – mainly for liability protection.

Philipp M. SauerbornTax Advisor, Dr. Werner & Partners

Non-Dom Status and Property Ownership

Many of my clients use the Non-Dom Status in Malta. Important to know: Rental income and capital gains from Malta properties are always taxable in Malta – regardless of Non-Dom status. Non-Dom status only protects foreign income that is not remitted to Malta.

However, Malta has no inheritance tax and no wealth tax on real estate – a significant advantage for succession planning. If you keep your residence in another country while running a Malta Limited, you should definitely read the 10 Commandments for Malta Limited Shareholders.

Comparison: Taxes Malta vs. UK

Status February 2026 – Sources: MTCA Malta, HMRC UK
Tax TypeMaltaUK
Property Transfer Tax5% (First-Time: 200k free)0–12%+ (SDLT tiers)
Annual Property TaxEUR 0£1,500–£3,000 (Council Tax)
Agent Fee (Buyer)0% (Seller pays)0% (Seller pays)
Rental Income15% Flat Tax20–45% (Income Tax)
Capital Gains on Sale8% Final Tax18% or 24% (CGT)
Inheritance TaxNone40% (above threshold)
Notary Costs0.5–1%0.5–1%

Calculation Example: Tax Savings Malta vs. UK

With a rented apartment (Purchase Price EUR 300,000, Monthly Rent EUR 1,500 / ~£1,250), you pay significantly less tax in Malta. Rental Tax: In Malta, you pay EUR 225 (15%). In the UK (at 45% top rate), you would pay approx. £560. Annual Tax: You save the entire cost of Council Tax (approx. £2,000/year). Total annual savings: Over EUR 6,000 compared to a similar tax burden in the UK.

Want to invest tax-efficiently in Malta? I can advise you personally on all tax aspects of buying property.

Benefit from our expertise. We advise you individually and without obligation.

Free Initial Consultation

Chapter 6

The Real Cost of Buying Property in Malta

Overview of Purchasing Costs

Besides the purchase price, there are additional costs when buying property in Malta. In total, you should budget for 7–9% of the purchase price.

5%
Stamp Duty
1% at POS + 4% at Final Deed
0.5–1%
Notary Fees
Title Search & Registration
1–1.5%
Legal Fees
Legal Services, recommended
300–600 €
Architect
Property Valuation
0.5–1%
Bank Fees
Only with mortgage
7–9%
Total
Excl. Agent (Seller pays)

Example Calculation: EUR 300,000 Apartment in St. Julian's

ItemAmount
Purchase Price300,000 EUR
Stamp Duty (5%)15,000 EUR
Notary Fees (0.75%)2,250 EUR
Legal Fees (1.25%)3,750 EUR
Property Valuation450 EUR
Bank Fees (Mortgage) (0.75%)2,250 EUR
Registration (0.15%)450 EUR
Total Costs324,150 EUR

As a first-time buyer, you save an additional: EUR 10,000 due to the stamp duty exemption on the first EUR 200,000.

Running Costs

ItemMonthly
ARMS (Water & Electricity)60–100 EUR
Condominium / Maintenanceapprox. 283 EUR
Home Insuranceapprox. 16 EUR
Internet & Phone30–50 EUR
Total390–450 EUR

And a reminder: No annual property tax. That alone saves you thousands compared to owning property in the UK or France.


Chapter 7

Renting vs. Buying – Maltese Rental Law

The Rental Market in Malta

Rental apartments in Malta cost between EUR 600 (Gozo) and EUR 2,000 (St. Julian's) per month for a two-bedroom apartment. Maltese rental law stipulates a minimum contract period of 1 year, and landlords can tax rental income at just 15% flat tax.

Not everyone wants to buy immediately – and that's perfectly fine. In fact, I advise many clients to rent in Malta for a year before making a purchase decision. This way, you get to know the island and find out which area really suits you.

Rental Contracts and Notice Periods

Maltese rental law was modernized in 2020 by the Private Residential Leases Act (Cap. 604). The key rules:

  • Minimum Term: 1 year
  • Landlord Notice: 3 months written by registered mail
  • Automatic Renewal: For 1 year if not terminated in time
  • Registration: Mandatory within 10 days with the Housing Authority
  • Deposit: Typically 1–2 months' rent (no statutory cap)
  • Inventory List: Mandatory – without a valid inventory list, the contract is voidable

An important point: There is no rent control in the strict sense in Malta. Rent is freely negotiated. However, the landlord cannot unilaterally increase the rent during the contract period.

Airbnb and Short-Let

If you want to rent out your property via Airbnb or similar platforms, you need two permits:

  1. MTA License (Malta Tourism Authority)
  2. Planning Authority Permit

Short-term letting is limited to a maximum of 90 consecutive days per rental period.

Airbnb Without a License?

Anyone renting out short-term without an MTA license and Planning Authority permit risks a 3-year ban – both for themselves as an operator and for the property itself.

Taxing Rental Income

As described in Chapter 5: 15% Flat Tax on gross rental income (Article 31D). This applies to both long-term and short-term rentals. Form TA24 must be submitted to the Commissioner for Revenue by April 30th of the following year (MTCA, Rental Income FAQ).


Chapter 8

Malta Real Estate as an Investment

Is Malta Property a Good Investment?

Yes, under the right conditions. Malta offers gross rental yields of 4–6% in prime locations, stable price growth of 5.7% (2025), and a rental tax of just 15% – significantly more attractive than comparable locations in the UK or Dubai. Here are the details.

Rental Yields by Region

In prime locations like Sliema and St. Julian's, gross rental yields are around 4–6% per year. After the 15% flat tax, you are left with 3.4–5.1% net. For comparison: In major cities like London or Munich, net rental yields after tax are often below 2%.

Add to that the moderate but constant price growth of 4–6% annually (NSO Malta RPPI). Over the last 10 years, the property price index has almost doubled.

Residency through Property Purchase (MPRP)

For non-EU citizens (including UK nationals post-Brexit), Malta offers the Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) – a type of Golden Visa linked to property purchase.

Purchase OptionRent Option
Propertyfrom 375,000 EUR (purchase)from 14,000 EUR/year (rent)
Government Contribution37,000 EUR37,000 EUR
Administration Fee60,000 EUR60,000 EUR
NGO Donation2,000 EUR2,000 EUR

The MPRP grants permanent residence rights in Malta, family reunification (spouse, children, dependent parents), and access to over 70 double taxation treaties (Residency Malta Agency, MPRP). If you want to learn more about moving to Malta, you'll find all the details in my comprehensive guide.

Buy-to-Let Strategy

A buy-to-let strategy in Malta can pay off – provided you factor in all costs:

  • Gross Rental Yield: 4–6% (depending on location)
  • Minus 15% Flat Tax: effective 3.4–5.1%
  • Minus Running Costs: approx. 390–450 EUR/month
  • Plus Capital Appreciation: approx. 4–6% annually

For a EUR 300,000 apartment in St. Julian's with EUR 1,500 monthly rent, you get a gross yield of 6%. After taxes and costs, you're left with approx. 3.2% net yield – plus capital appreciation. That is significantly better than many UK buy-to-let scenarios.


Chapter 9

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Yes. In Special Designated Areas (SDAs), you can buy without restrictions. Outside SDAs, you need an AIP permit (Acquisition of Immovable Property Permit, cost: EUR 233). EU citizens living in Malta for 5+ years are exempt from this requirement.

The Malta average is EUR 3,300/m² (NSO Malta, Q3 2025). In prime locations like Sliema and St. Julian's, you pay EUR 3,500–4,500/m²; in Mellieha or Gozo, prices start from EUR 1,500/m². A 100m² apartment in Sliema therefore costs EUR 350,000–450,000.

Stamp Duty is 5% of the purchase price. First-time buyers benefit from the First-Time Buyer Scheme (permanent since Budget 2026): The first EUR 200,000 is tax-free. 1% is due upon signing the preliminary contract, the remaining 4% upon the Final Deed.

No. Malta does not charge any annual property tax. This is a significant advantage compared to the UK (Council Tax) or France (Taxe Foncière).

From the Promise of Sale (Konvenju) to the Final Deed usually takes 8–12 weeks. During this time, the notary conducts due diligence. For SDAs, it can often be faster.

SDAs are 14 designated zones in Malta and Gozo where foreigners can buy property without an AIP permit and without quantity restrictions. 7 are in St. Julian's and Kalkara, 7 on Gozo.

Yes. All major Maltese banks (BOV, HSBC Malta, APS Bank, MeDirect) grant mortgages to foreign buyers. Current interest rate: approx. 2.85–4.0% (variable). Loan-to-Value: 80% for residents, 70–80% for non-residents.

You have a choice: 15% Flat Tax on gross rental income (recommended) or progressive taxation of 0–35%. The 15% flat tax is a final tax – no further charges apply. (Article 31D, Income Tax Act)

No. You do not have to live in Malta to own property. However, outside SDAs, you need an AIP permit. For the MPRP (Residency Program), a property purchase of at least EUR 375,000 or a rental of at least EUR 14,000/year is required.

Malta records stable price growth of 4–6% annually (RPPI Q3 2025: +5.7% YoY). Rental yields are 4–6% gross in prime locations. The combination of 15% flat tax on rental income, no property tax, and moderate price growth makes Malta attractive.

The Konvenju (Promise of Sale) is the preliminary contract where a 10% deposit and 1% stamp duty are due. The notary then has 8–10 weeks for due diligence. The Final Deed concludes the purchase, with the balance and 4% remaining stamp duty paid.

Yes, but you need an MTA license (Malta Tourism Authority) and a Planning Authority permit. Short-term letting is limited to max. 90 consecutive days. Without a license, you risk a 3-year ban. Tax: 15% Flat Tax on income.

In Malta, the seller usually pays the agent's fee (3–5% + VAT). Buyers generally do not pay agent fees – a distinct advantage compared to some other markets.

Tax-wise, there is no difference: Stamp duty (5%), rental income (15% flat tax), and capital gains (8%) are identical. A Malta Limited is only worthwhile for larger portfolios or commercial use due to limited liability.

Upon sale, an 8% final withholding tax applies to the transfer value. For properties acquired before 2004, a rate of 12% applies. Restored UCA properties benefit from a 10% rate.


Chapter 10

Conclusion

Who Should Buy Property in Malta?

The Maltese real estate market offers an interesting combination: stable capital appreciation, attractive rental yields, and a tax system that is significantly more favourable than in the UK.

Buying is particularly worthwhile if you:

  • Want to move to Malta and live there long-term
  • Want to tax rental income at just 15% flat tax (instead of 20–45% in the UK)
  • Don't want to pay annual property tax (Council Tax)
  • Buy in an SDA to secure full flexibility for further purchases
  • Are a non-EU/UK citizen seeking residency via the MPRP

Malta is less suitable if you:

  • Are speculating purely on rapid short-term appreciation (Malta grows steadily, not explosively)
  • Are looking for large plots of land or gardens (Malta is densely populated)
  • Are not prepared to cover the purchasing costs of 7–9%

My personal advice: Come to Malta first, rent for a year, and get to know the island. And if you then decide to buy, speak to a tax advisor beforehand – not just an agent.

I am happy to support you with that.

Planning to buy property in Malta? I can advise you personally on taxes, purchase structure, and the best options for your situation.

Benefit from our expertise. We advise you individually and without obligation.

Free Initial Consultation

This article was last updated in March 2026. All information is based on laws and regulations in force at that time. Sources: NSO Malta (RPPI Q3/2025), MTCA Malta (Property Taxes), MTCA Malta (Rental Income 15%), Residency Malta Agency (MPRP), Eurostat Housing Price Statistics, Chapter 246 Laws of Malta (AIP Act), Cap. 604 Private Residential Leases Act, Legal Notice 146/2025 (MPRP Amendments). Tax information does not constitute individual advice.

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Disclaimer: The content of this article is for general information purposes only and does not constitute tax, legal or financial advice. Despite careful research, we make no guarantee for the accuracy, completeness and timeliness of the information provided. Tax regulations are subject to constant change. For individual advice, please consult a qualified tax advisor. Use of the content is at your own risk.

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