For investors and high-net-worth individuals looking to secure European residency, two of the most popular options are Malta’s Permanent Residency Program (MPRP) and Portugal’s Golden Visa. Both offer residency in the European Union, access to the Schengen Area, and a pathway to citizenship. However, each program has its own advantages, costs, and requirements.
If you’re considering investing in an EU residency program, this guide will break down the key differences between Malta and Portugal’s Golden Visa so you can decide which is the better fit for you.
1. Overview of the Malta and Portugal Golden Visa Programs
Malta Permanent Residency Program (MPRP)
Malta’s residency-by-investment program offers a permanent residence permit with no minimum stay requirement. It allows investors to reside in Malta and travel freely within the Schengen Area.
- Investment Requirement: Minimum €220,000 in real estate or a combination of fees and government contributions
- Processing Time: 5-6 months
- Residency Validity: Permanent
- Path to Citizenship: Not directly linked, but possible after 7 years of actual residence
- Physical Presence Required: No minimum stay requirement
Portugal Golden Visa
Portugal’s Golden Visa grants a residency permit in exchange for an investment, historically in real estate, but now primarily in investment funds, job creation, or research. It allows visa-free travel across the Schengen Zone and provides a pathway to Portuguese citizenship.
- Investment Requirement: Minimum €500,000 in investment funds
- Processing Time: 12+ months
- Residency Validity: 2 years, renewable
- Path to Citizenship: After 5 years
- Physical Presence Required: Only 7 days per year
2. Investment Requirements & Costs
Malta
To obtain Maltese permanent residency, investors can choose between a real estate investment or a government contribution:
- Option 1: Buy a property worth at least €220,000 in South Malta or Gozo, or €275,000 in other regions
- Option 2: Rent a property for a minimum of €10,000 per year
- Additional Fees:
- Government contribution: €28,000 (if purchasing property) or €58,000 (if renting)
- Administrative fee: €40,000
- Donation to a Maltese NGO: €2,000
Total minimum cost: Around €100,000-150,000 (non-refundable government fees included)
Portugal
Since Portugal phased out real estate as an eligible investment option for the Golden Visa, investors now primarily choose:
- Investment funds: Minimum €500,000 in approved investment funds
- Scientific research: Minimum €500,000
- Job creation: Minimum €500,000 for business investment creating jobs
Total minimum cost: €500,000 investment + legal and administrative fees
Which is better?
- If you prefer a lower initial investment, Malta is the more cost-effective option.
- If you are willing to invest more and want a stronger pathway to EU citizenship, Portugal is better.
3. Residency & Travel Benefits
Malta
- Permanent residency from day one
- Visa-free travel within Schengen Zone
- No physical stay requirement
Portugal
- Temporary residency (renewable every two years)
- Visa-free travel within Schengen Zone
- Requires only 7 days per year stay
Which is better?
- If you want permanent residency immediately, Malta is the better choice.
- If you prefer minimal stay requirements and citizenship eligibility after 5 years, Portugal is superior.
4. Pathway to Citizenship
Malta
Malta’s Permanent Residency Program (MPRP) does not directly lead to citizenship. However, investors can apply for naturalization after 7 years of actual residence.
Alternatively, Malta offers a Citizenship by Investment program, but it requires €600,000-€750,000 in contributions, plus additional investments.
Portugal
Portugal’s Golden Visa offers a direct pathway to citizenship after 5 years without requiring full-time residence. Investors only need to stay 7 days per year, pass a basic Portuguese language test, and meet standard requirements.
Which is better?
Portugal provides a clearer and faster path to an EU passport, making it the better choice if citizenship is your goal.
5. Tax Implications
Malta
- No worldwide income tax for non-domiciled residents
- Tax only applies to income earned in Malta
- No inheritance or wealth tax
Portugal
- No worldwide tax for non-habitual residents (NHR) for 10 years
- Some foreign income (like pensions) can be taxed at a flat 10% rate
- No inheritance or wealth tax
Which is better?
Both Malta and Portugal offer tax advantages,
6. Family Inclusion
Malta
- Spouse, children, and parents can be included in the application
- No additional investment is required for family members
Portugal
- Spouse, children, and parents can also be included
- No additional investment required
Which is better?
Both programs allow full family inclusion, making them equally attractive for family migration.
7. Which One Should You Choose?
| Feature | Malta Golden Visa | Portugal Golden Visa |
| Minimum Investment | €220,000 (real estate) or €100,000+ in fees | €500,000 (investment funds) |
| Residency Type | Permanent from day one | Temporary (renewed every 2 years) |
| Path to Citizenship | 7+ years of actual residence | 5 years with minimal stay |
| Physical Stay Requirement | None | 7 days per year |
| Tax Benefits | No worldwide tax for non-domiciled residents | 10-year NHR tax exemption |
| Best For | Immediate permanent residency | Fastest citizenship path |
Final Verdict
- Choose Malta if you want permanent residency immediately with a lower investment requirement.
- Choose Portugal if you want a faster path to citizenship and stronger investment potential.
How to Get Started?
Both the Malta and Portugal Golden Visa programs are excellent opportunities for investors looking to gain EU residency and global mobility. If you’re unsure which one is best for you, our team of experts at Soland World can help you navigate the application process, handle all legal requirements, and ensure a smooth investment experience.
Contact us today to start your journey!📞 +971 4 266 8615
📩 info@solandworld.com
