Acquisition Of Immovable Property In Malta

The acquisition of immovable property in Malta by non-resident persons is regulated by Chapter 246 of the Laws of Malta, namely the Immovable Property (Aquisition by Non-Residents) Act, which originally came into force on 9th August 1974 (the “Act”).  As the name suggests, the Act seeks to establish the requisite formalities involved in the acquisition of immovable property in Malta by non-residents, and the instances in which these apply, and when an acquisition of immovable property permit (“AIP Permit”) is required, and when it isn't.    

Who are non-residents?

Third-country nationals (excluding those holding long-term resident status in terms of the Immigration Act) and citizens of Malta or other Member States who have not resided in Malta for a minimum continuous period of five years prior to the date of acquisition (amongst others), are classified as falling under the definition of “non-resident persons” in terms of Article 2 of the Act.