To qualify for the Startup Residence Programme, applicants must satisfy carefully defined requirements designed to attract genuine innovators and growth-focused entrepreneurs.
Malta Startup Residence Programme
Transform your entrepreneurial vision into European reality. Live, work, and scale your startup from the heart of the Mediterranean.
Get in Touch
Programme Overview
A Gateway to European Innovation
The Malta Startup Residence Programme (SRP) invites driven entrepreneurs, founders, and core employees from non-EU countries to live and work in Malta whilst developing their businesses within the European Union. This is not merely a visa—it’s your foundation for building a thriving international enterprise.
Established in 2022 under Subsidiary Legislation 217.26 of the Immigration Act (Cap. 217), the programme was launched by Residency Malta Agency in collaboration with Malta Enterprise. It is designed to attract high-potential startups, providing them with the legal stability and supportive environment needed to expand their operations across Europe.
The programme offers non-EU innovators the ability to establish and operate their startup in Malta, whilst enjoying access to European markets, world-class infrastructure, and a safe, English-speaking environment perfectly positioned between three continents.
Key Programme Features
- Three-year residence permit with extension options
- Legal right to operate your business in an EU member state
- Visa-free Schengen travel across 29 countries
- Whole-family relocation support
- Access to Malta Enterprise grants and mentoring
- Transparent, competitive tax framework
Why Malta for Your Startup?
Strategic Location
Malta sits at the crossroads of Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East—offering unparalleled access to emerging and established markets.
English-Speaking Hub
Conduct business seamlessly in English, Malta’s official language, eliminating communication barriers across your operations.
Political Stability
Benefit from a secure, EU-regulated environment with strong rule of law and investor protection frameworks.
Modern Infrastructure
Access cutting-edge digital connectivity, world-class facilities, and a thriving ecosystem of innovation-focused professionals.
Malta’s pro-business ecosystem, startup-friendly government policies, and vibrant international community make it a natural hub for founders and entrepreneurs with global ambitions. Whether you’re scaling a SaaS platform, developing breakthrough biotech, or pioneering sustainable solutions, Malta provides the foundation for sustainable growth.
Who Can Apply?
Nationality Requirements
You must be a third-country national (non-EU, non-EEA, non-Swiss) aged at least 18 years.
Business Role
You must be a founder, co-founder, or core employee of a startup registered for no more than seven years anywhere in the world.
Financial Stability
Demonstrate stable and regular financial resources to support yourself and dependents without relying on Malta’s social assistance system.
Character & Intent
Maintain a clean police record, pass due-diligence screening, and show genuine intention to develop your business from Malta
Physical Presence Requirement: You must maintain at least 183 days of residence per year in Malta and pay taxes locally to retain your residence status.
Eligible Startup Activities
The programme focuses on innovation-driven businesses operating in strategically important sectors. To be recognised as eligible, startups must be engaged in one or more of the following high-value activities:
Manufacturing & Industrial Services
Advanced production, precision engineering, and high-value industrial solutions with export potential.
Software, ICT & AI
Software development, artificial intelligence, machine learning, blockchain, and digital transformation technologies.
Health & Life Sciences
Biotechnology, pharmaceutical innovation, medical devices, and healthcare technology solutions.
Green & Sustainable Industries
Renewable energy, circular economy solutions, environmental technology, and blue economy initiatives.
Technology-Enabled Innovation
Knowledge-intensive activities leveraging technology to create new markets or transform existing industries.
Innovation Criteria: Demonstrating Your Potential
Your startup must meet at least two of the following innovation criteria to qualify:
International Market Potential
Products or services designed for cross-border scalability and global commercialisation.
Substantial Improvement
New or significantly improved solutions compared to existing market offerings
Novel Processes
Employment of innovative technologies or methodologies within your operations.
FINANCIAL REQUIREMENTS
Investment & Administrative Costs
The programme requires applicants to demonstrate financial self-sufficiency and the capacity to sustain both personal and business expenses without state support. Startups must maintain adequate capital to fund operations, staffing, and premises in Malta
€25
K
Minimum Share Capital
Required paid-up capital or tangible investment for the startup
€10
K
Per Additional Founder
Required for startups with more than four co-founders
€
750Administrative Fee
Per adult applicant (including dependents)
€
690Employment Licence
Valid for three years through Jobsplus
€25K
Minimum Share Capital
Required paid-up capital or tangible investment for the startup
€10K
Per Additional Founder
Required for startups with more than four co-founders
€750
Administrative Fee
Per adult applicant (including dependents)
€690
Employment Licence
Valid for three years through Jobsplus
Additional Requirements
Residence card (Identità Malta): €82.50 per applicant
Comprehensive EU health insurance: minimum annual coverage of €100,000
Residential property in Malta (rented or purchased): no minimum value specified
Core Employee Criteria
Essential team members may also apply provided they hold specialised skills, earn at least €30,000 annually, and are critical to the startup’s success. Family members may be included in the same application.
Core Employee Criteria
Essential team members may also apply provided they hold specialised skills, earn at least €30,000 annually, and are critical to the startup’s success. Family members may be included in the same application.
Additional Requirements
- Residence card (Identità Malta): €82.50 per applicant
- Comprehensive EU health insurance: minimum annual coverage of €100,000
- Residential property in Malta (rented or purchased): no minimum value specified
Programme Benefits: Building Your European Future
Long-Term Residence Rights
Secure a three-year residence permit, extendable to a further five years, providing stability for you and your business.
Whole-Family Inclusion
Relocate with your spouse or partner, financially dependent children, and even parents under the same application.
Schengen Area Access
Travel visa-free across 27 European countries for 90 days in every 180-day period.
Malta Enterprise Support
Access grants, mentoring programmes, networking events, and business development incentives.
Transparent & Competitive Taxation
Malta offers one of Europe’s most attractive tax frameworks for entrepreneurs, governed by the Income Tax Act (Cap. 123):
Foreign Income
Taxed only if remitted to Malta—providing significant planning flexibility for international revenue streams.
Progressive Rates
Maltese-source income taxed at 0% to 35% on a progressive scale, ensuring competitive effective rates.
No Wealth Taxes
Zero wealth, estate, or inheritance taxes— protecting your assets and family legacy.
Your Journey to Malta: Next Steps
Embarking on the Startup Residence Programme is a transformative decision that positions your business at the heart of European innovation. Our streamlined process ensures clarity, efficiency, and confidence at every stage.
PARTNERSHIP
Why Partner with Finanzi?
Choosing the right residency option is not merely a tax decision—it’s about creating a secure foundation for your business and a fulfilling lifestyle for your family. At Finanzi, we provide endto-end guidance to ensure your move is seamless and strategically aligned with your personal and professional goals.
We understand that relocating a startup involves complex intersections of immigration law, tax planning, corporate structuring, and practical logistics. Our integrated approach removes the guesswork and stress.
Integrated Support
Tax, immigration, and business planning in one place—no need to coordinate multiple advisers across different jurisdictions.
Tailored Strategies
Customised solutions that reflect your financial structure, family needs, and long-term business priorities.
On-the-Ground Expertise
Local knowledge paired with global insight—we understand Malta’s regulatory environment and international business dynamics.
Strategic Planning
Ensure your residency, tax structures, and corporate setup are optimised from day one for scalability and compliance.
Tailored Strategies
Introductions to trusted property agents, schools, banking partners, and relocation specialists throughout Malta.
Get in Touch
Email: info@finanzi.com, Phone: +356 1234 5678
Why Partner with Finanzi?
Choosing the right residency option is not merely a tax decision—it’s about creating a secure foundation for your business and a fulfilling lifestyle for your family. At Finanzi, we provide endto-end guidance to ensure your move is seamless and strategically aligned with your personal and professional goals.
We understand that relocating a startup involves complex intersections of immigration law, tax planning, corporate structuring, and practical logistics. Our integrated approach removes the guesswork and stress.
Integrated Support
Tax, immigration, and business planning in one place—no need to coordinate multiple advisers across different jurisdictions.
Tailored Strategies
Customised solutions that reflect your financial structure, family needs, and long-term business priorities.
On-the-Ground Expertise
Local knowledge paired with global insight—we understand Malta’s regulatory environment and international business dynamics.
Strategic Planning
Ensure your residency, tax structures, and corporate setup are optimised from day one for scalability and compliance.
Tailored Strategies
Introductions to trusted property agents, schools, banking partners, and relocation specialists throughout Malta.
Your Companion on the Pathway to Global Mobility
Finanzi stands ready to guide you through the complexities of citizenship and residence planning with expertise, discretion, and unwavering commitment to your success.
Contact us today for a confidential consultation with our experienced migration consultants.
Contact us for more information
