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Malta closed down it’s citizenship program this past week as of the day this article was posted, but today we’re covering the Malta PR program vs Spain’s passive income PR program. Although Spain has paused it’s Golden Visa program, also earlier in April 2025, you can still obtain a residency through the passive income residency program – which is what we are comparing head-to-head today against Malta’s permanent residency program (MPRP).
These are the lowest cost residency programs for both Spain and Malta.
Both countries are on located by the Mediterranean, are full EU members, and you can reside with your family in these EU countries based on the programs we are covering today.
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We will be comparing these 2 programs in this article, however for your convenience we have also posted this comparison in a clear table format below on this page to check each criteria side by side for both Malta & Spain – making it easier for you to make an informed decision.
Let’s start with the minimum required amount you need to have to qualify for both programs (Malta’s PR program and Spain’s passive income residency program, also called the non-lucrative visa which does not require an investment in Spain).
For the Spain Passive income visa you will need to prove that you (as the main applicant) have a monthly minimum required passive income.
Passive income means you are not on salary or wages – and you don’t need to go to work every day to earn that income. Examples include interest payments from term deposits, investment funds, dividend payments from a company in which you are a passive shareholder, or even pension income. Sometimes even rental income can be eligible too – but you would have to prove in such cases that you have a full time property management company handling your rental income since you won’t be able to manage it while overseas in Spain. The key is to make sure the income you are providing as proof to the Spanish embassy is not ‘active income’ meaning you don’t need to report or go to work to earn that money. You can be overseas or sitting at home and that income will hit your account no matter what on a consistent basis. This is the basis of the Spanish non-lucrative visa also known as passive income leading to residency.
For this program in Spain, a passive income amount of € 2,400 per month (CAN ~$3,063/ USD ~$2,220) should be proven by the main applicant as per the 2025 Spanish government figures posted. An additional amount of € 600 per month (CAN ~$897/ USD ~$555) for each family member should be added to the main applicant's application – meaning that if you and your dependents are 4 persons you will need to show a minimum income of €4,200 per month (CAD$ ~$6321/ USD ~$4581). Keep in mind that this is a bare minimum income. The higher passive income you can prove, the higher chances of approval by the Spanish embassy in your current country of residence. You need to use your common sense, so if you only have passive income for the past 3-4 months, this would not be sufficient. We recommend closer to at least 12 months consecutive and consistent proof of passive income into your own account or joint account with your spouse or documented common-law partner.
On the other hand, Malta’s PR program is a bit different. Definitely a bit more costly but unlike the Spain passive-income program, Malta offers a permanent residency right upfront, and the country is bilingual (English and Maltese).
To qualify for the program financially you would need to have a net worth of €500,000 which can be in the form of fixed assets, shares, or jointly with your spouse or documented common-law, along with €150,000 in liquid funds which can be part of the original €500,000 net worth. Or alternatively a net worth of €650,000 with €75,000 of this amount to be in liquid funds. Keep in mind that no audit is required and this is all based on self-declaration as well – and you don’t need to spend this money – just need to prove that you are worth that much. The reason for the liquid funds requirement is to be able to pay all the government fees, contributions and donations as part of the Malta PR program - otherwise how would you qualify if you don’t have the funds to pay the required amounts to the government in Malta?
The main applicant has to make an official contribution to the Malta government for €60,000, and a local charity contribution in Malta for €2,000. In addition, a non-refundable administrative fee of €50,000 also needs to be paid by the main applicant to the Malta government. For each dependent that is your common-law, spouse or child, you will be paying an additional administrative fee of €10,000 per person to the Malta government. In case you want to include your parents, each parent would require a contribution of €7,500 additional as well to the Malta government.
In all, a single adult’s cost for the Malta PR program would be approx. €112,000 in addition to legal fees, the PR card issuance fees. This is excluding the minimum rental of a property for each family. The minimum acceptable rental amount is €14,000 per year and would need a lease for 5 years – although it could in theory be paid every year. A property purchase option is also available at €375,000 but that would be outside of the scope of this article today as we are checking the lowest cost pathways to these two countries.
As an example, a family of 4 (1 main applicant, 1 spouse or common-law partner, and 2 children) would be look at a total combined government fee of €152,050.- excluding legal fees, government PR issuance fees which would be €550.- , and rental fee of a property in Malta to accommodate the family.
Obviously this is a much bigger cost to the applicant and their family compared to the non-lucrative Spain visa, but there is a reason for this and we’ll cover these key points which you need to know about before you decide purely on the price tag.
The Malta PR program restricts applicants from renting out their main residency in Malta or sub-leasing. Any kind of short or long term rental is prohibited for the main residency which is the only tie to the country for the applicants receiving their permanent residencies. Of course the applicant can rent out other properties they have invested in, but not the primary residency they have rented or purchased for the PR program of Malta.
In Spain, no such restrictions exist. If your landlord approves, you can rent out or sub-lease, since property rental or investment is not part of this immigration program (non-lucrative Visa) for Spain.
Under the non-lucrative Spain visa, your initial permit is granted for 1 year, with a possible 2 year renewal followed by another 2 year renewal. Some cities have allowed a third, exceptional renewal, though regions like Galicia do not offer this option. Typically, at the 5 year mark you have the opportunity to convert to permanent status if you meet the requirements as we have listed below in this article. A policy change expected in May 2025 for the Spain non-lucrative visa is set to extend the first renewal period to 4 years after the initial 1-year grant. It's still unclear whether the consulates will require proof of funds for the entire 4-year period and if following extensions will be granted for the same amount of time.
For the Malta PR program, no renewal is required on an annual basis, but rather every 5 years your PR cards should be renewed. In theory you only need to return to Malta every 5 years in case you don’t plan to stay in the country while you hold the permanent residency card of this EU country.
Here are the key differences to note: For the Spain non-lucrative visa (passive income) which provides you and your family a temporary residency, unlike Malta which issues a permanent residency from the very beginning, in Spain you do need to spend 183 days per year to maintain this residency. This means if you plan to maintain and renew your residency under this specific program in Spain, which is not the Golden Visa option, then you do need to spend half the year in Spain. This has been successfully challenged in the Supreme Court of Spain before 2025, however as of May 2025 new stricter regulations have been clearly outlined in the law requiring this minimum residency in Spain to maintain and renew your status after the first year.
For Malta, you will receive a permanent residency status for 5 years and do not need to renew it or stay in the country during the first 5 years. Your main ties to the country is the property which you will rent (or perhaps purchase later on). There is no residency requirement at all except to enter initially to complete your biometrics and collect your PR cards. No renewals until the 5 years of your PR status are completed, in which case you can file to renew if the regulations have not changed by then.
Having permanent residency status in an EU country as you can imagine is significantly different than a temporary residency.
In the Spain program, if you plan to convert your temporary residency to permanent residency, then you need to continuously stay in Spain for 5 years before being eligible to apply for Permanent Residency status. You are allowed to be absent for a total of 10 months during the 5 year period, unless it’s a work related absence which would allow you to stay absent for 12 months total in 5 years – and in no one year can it exceed 6 months absence, meaning that the minimum 183 days presence is not negotiable.
Of course after you have converted to permanent residency, the residency requirements are more relaxed, unless you plan for citizenship in Spain which would take another 5 years as a PR status.
So far what we have covered, is that Spain issues a temporary residency under this program for 1 year, renewable for every 2 years, with the regulations planned to be changed for a 4-year renewable – giving you 5 years in the country before deciding and becoming eligible to convert to PR. While Malta issues you a 5-year permanent residency from the very beginning.
This is a very interesting question to be asked now, since Malta just closed it’s exclusive citizenship investment program this past week (as of the publishing date of this article). However, the Malta Permanent Residency Program never automatically made applicants eligible for citizenship anyways. However, we do except Malta to revamp its programs due to the EU court rulings, potentially creating a new PR to citizenship pathway but with higher investment thresholds. Spain on the other hand is more ‘citizenship’ friendly meaning that if you convert your temporary residency to permanent status in 5 years and stay 9 months per year minimum for the rest of the 5 years, you can become eligible for citizenship in Spain (total 10 years). Keep in mind that if you were born in an Ibero-American country, in other words an ex-colony of Spain, you can become eligible for citizenship in Spain within 2 years of residency (This applies to for nationals who are born in Latin American countries, Andorra, the Philippines, Equatorial Guinea, Portugal, or individuals of Sephardic origin).
This is the biggest difference between the Malta and Spain programs we are covering in this article. As an applicant for the non-lucrative visa in Spain, you are not allowed to work since the whole foundation of the program is for people and families who have passive income and can support themselves financially without engaging in any type of work or profession in Spain. Whether you work remotely or not is a different matter, and is a gray area in the regulations and laws of Spain, but could increase refusal under this program – and we would suggest to rather apply as a digital nomad, and not for the non-lucrative visa of Spain in case you are actively working remotely.
You could technically own a business in Spain under this visa, but you cannot actively manage it or work on it.
On the other hand, Malta’s program does not give the automatically authorization to a Malta PR holder to work, however it is legally allowed to apply for a separate work permit from inside Malta based on an offer of employment – and the same is true for the spouse or common-law partner of the main applicant. Therefore, Malta is more flexible in terms of work permit authorizations for PR holders.
Yes, in Malta, if your adult children under the age of 29 who are single and 100% financially dependent on you can be included in your PR application.
In Spain, dependents under the age of 18 can be included, and it is also possible to include adult children above the age of 18 in their mid 20’s if they are single and 100% financially dependent on the main applicant (i.e. parent) with supporting documentation.
In Spain this would not be possible during the first 5 years as a temporary residency under the non-lucrative visa. However, in Malta, it is possible to include parents as additional dependents under the Malta Permanent Residency Program.
Under the non-lucrative visa (also known as the passive income residency) in Spain, the main applicant and dependents are not permitted to engage in any form of employment. However, the non-lucrative residency visa in Spain does allow for study programs and unpaid internships.
In Malta, under the MRPR, free education rights are not automatically available to Permanent Residency holder of Malta. If the parent or guardian of the dependent applies for a work permit, under a special exemption children can obtain free education.
Applicants need to provider their own private health insurance coverage as part of the application process – and free healthcare or insurance is not covered by the Spanish government for temporary residents under this program.
In Malta, the same regulations apply, and private healthcare insurance needs to be obtained by the applicant and their families for the application eligibility criteria of the MPRP.
Unless the applicant becomes a citizen of the country where they obtained residency, they are not permitted to reside and work in any other EU country unless they apply separately for the residency program of that country. Please refer to the regulations for more information (long term EU residency rights apply to the country where the residency is obtained – not any other EU countries as per this government link: https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/policies/migration-and-asylum/legal-migration-resettlement-and-integration/long-term-residents_en )
An individual is considered to have their habitual residence in Spain for tax purposes when any of the following conditions are met:
• They spend more than 183 days in Spain during a calendar year.
Spain has tax treaties with many countries, which help avoid double taxation. Therefore, being a tax resident in Spain does not automatically mean you will be required to pay taxes there. It is advisable to review the tax treaty between Spain and your country of residence for specific guidance.
Tax treaties here: https://sede.agenciatributaria.gob.es/Sede/normativa-criterios-interpretativos/fiscalidad-internacional/convenios-doble-imposicion-firmados-espana.html
https://sede.agenciatributaria.gob.es/Sede/en_gb/no-residentes/residencia-personas-fisicas-juridicas/persona-fisica-residente-espana.html
https://sede.agenciatributaria.gob.es/Sede/en_gb/no-residentes/residencia-personas-fisicas-juridicas/persona-fisica-residente-espana.html
Obtaining permanent residency in Malta through the Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) doesn't automatically make you a tax resident. To be considered a tax resident, you must spend more than 183 days in Malta during a calendar year. Taxation treaties exist with countries such as USA and other jurisdictions. Malta has very reasonable and flexible global income tax regimes available – more favorable than most other EU countries. Refer to our other articles our website regarding favorable tax regimes in Europe.
Hopefully you now have a clear picture of the main differences of these two programs in Spain and Malta and which program would be more beneficial for you, your family and potentially your future residency in Europe.
Spain’s program is cheaper, but also more restrictive – while Malta’s program has higher initial costs but does open up more options to work and study in the country – although citizenship eligibility is a different matter.
Spain – Non Lucrative Visa |
Malta - MPRP |
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Renewal Frequencies |
Initially granted for 1 year, with a possible 2-year renewal followed by another 2 years. Some cities have allowed a third, exceptional renewal, though regions like Galicia do not offer this option. A policy change expected in May 2025 is set to extend the first renewal period to 4 years after the initial 1-year grant. It's still unclear whether the consulates will require proof of funds for the entire 4-year period and if following extensions will be granted for the same amount of time. |
The residence card is valid for 5 years or until cut-off dates, at ages 14 and 18, following which the beneficiary should reapply for the card renewal with our office. Note: The Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) grants permanent residency, meaning you don't need to renew your residency status, but you do need to renew your residence card every 5 years |
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Residency requirements for renewals |
Current regulation requires a 180-day stay for renewal. However, the Supreme Court has not upheld this rule, as it conflicts with the right to free movement. As a result, renewals have been approved even with shorter stays. The new regulation, effective May 2025, sets a minimum stay of 183 days—aligning with tax residency requirements. However, this too may be challenged under the same Supreme Court mandate, potentially rendering it invalid. Note: For long-term permanent residency applications, prolonged absences from the country will negatively impact eligibility. |
Hold real estate during the entire duration of the residency. Either lease of property or purchase in Malta. |
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Permanent OR Temporary Residency |
Temporary Residency |
Permanent Residency |
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Residency requirements to convert to PR |
Having legally and continuously resided in Spanish territory for five years. |
PR issued initially during first application. The beneficiary is not required to maintain ownership of the specific qualifying property outlined in the relevant legal notice after the first 5 years. However, in order to retain the residence permit, they must continue to hold a residential property in Malta or Gozo. |
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Minimum Investment for family of 2 |
The monthly minimum required amount for 2025 is € 2,400 (CAN $3,589/ USD $2,220). To this amount must be added € 600 (CAN $897/ USD $555) for each family member in the applicant's care.
Note: For renewals, some cities may require payment equivalent to a two-year period. |
Estimated at €147,225 for a family of 1 adult and 1 dependent child. This included government admin fees, application fees, donations and contributions and legal fees. No property rental or purchase amount included in this total estimate. Please add 5 year property leasing or property purchase to your budget for this program. |
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Leads to Citizenship? |
Yes. To do so, it is necessary to have legally and continuously resided in Spain for ten years immediately prior to the application. A minimum stay of 9 months per year in Spain is typically required to obtain Spanish passport. While this requirement is not explicitly stated in the law, it is commonly enforced by consulates during the application process. Individuals of Ibero-American descent may apply for citizenship after two years of legal residence in Spain.
Paginas/index.aspx?scca=Nacionalidad&scco=Chile&scd =260&scs=Nacionalidad+espa%C3%B1ola+por+residencia |
No. |
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Can rent out residence during absence? |
Yes. If any property is rented or purchased, can be rented out based on permissions from the landlord/building. |
Not allowed. |
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Main Applicant has ‘open’ work authorization |
No, you cannot work on a Spanish non-lucrative visa, as it is designed for individuals who can financially support themselves without engaging in any work or professional activity in Spain. Income shown in the application MUST BE PASSIVE. The regulation does not explicitly address remote work, but there is a newer mention that clarifies that employment must not be carried out within Spanish territory. However, this remains a gray area, and declaring that you are working while applying can significantly increase the risk of refusal. |
Obtaining a work permit is a separate process from the MPRP application. Obtaining a permanent residency in Malta does not give the right to work for the main applicant or their family. A separate work permit needs to be applied under separate regulations. Spouse of main applicant is not entitled to work in Malta unless they apply for a work permit. |
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Can Family members be added to the application? |
Yes, the following family members may also obtain the visa:
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Yes. Dependent family members and even parents can be added based on specific eligibility and additional fees. The program is very flexible based on the fees that are paid. |
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Dependent family can study & work? |
The main applicant and dependents are not permitted to engage in any form of employment. However, the non-lucrative residency visa in Spain does allow for study programs and unpaid internships. |
Free education rights are not automatically available to Permanent Residency holder of Malta. If the parent or guardian of the dependent applies for a work permit, under a special exemption children can obtain free education. |
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Eligible age of dependent children |
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Under the age of 29 – if single and financially dependent. |
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Access to Healthcare |
Original and a copy of the certificate accrediting the public or private health insurance with no co-pay (or deductible) contracted with an insurance entity authorized to operate in Spain. The insurance policy must be valid for 1 year and must cover all the beneficiaries of the visa for the risks insured by Spain's public health system. No travel insurances with medical assistance coverage will be accepted. |
Private healthcare insurance needs to be obtained by the applicant and their families for the application eligibility criteria. |
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Tax residency |
An individual is considered to have their habitual residence in Spain for tax purposes when any of the following conditions are met:
Spain has tax treaties with many countries, which help avoid double taxation. Therefore, being a tax resident in Spain does not automatically mean you will be required to pay taxes there. It is advisable to review the tax treaty between Spain and your country of residence for specific guidance.
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Obtaining permanent residency in Malta through the Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) doesn't automatically make you a tax resident. To be considered a tax resident, you must spend more than 183 days in Malta during a calendar year. Taxation treaties exist with countries such as USA and other jurisdictions. |
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Ability to live & work in another EU country |
Unless the applicant becomes a citizen of the country where they obtained residency, they are not permitted to reside and work in any other EU country unless they apply separately for the residency program of that country. Please refer to the regulations for more information (long term EU residency rights apply to the country where the residency is obtained – not any other EU countries as per this link: https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/policies/migration-and-asylum/legal-migration-resettlement-and-integration/long-term-residents_en ) |
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