See how and why south african residence visit and live in Malta to benefit from the low tax rates in the country.
Have you ever dreamt of moving abroad to an English speaking Island in the middle of the Mediterranean where crime is practically non-existent, the climate is pleasant throughout the year, the standard of living is high and the cost of living being reasonably low? Well, you can stop dreaming because your wishes may even be closer than you think. You might just want to start packing your bags after you read this.
For some years now, Malta has become a popular destination for South African Nationals (amongst people from other nations) who have headed to this Mediterranean Island country to take up residency and live in Malta and take up a lifestyle that up to that time did not seem could be a reality. English is very widely spoken, in fact it is the second language by most of the locals who are also well known for their very friendly nature thus making it easier to integrate into the Maltese community and understand the way of life and the general system. It is in fact no casual coincidence that there is already a sizable expatriate community made up of foreigners who are in Malta on work assignments, permanent residence holders, retiree’s as well as business travelers that keeps growing from year to year.
Malta enjoys several double taxation agreements with various countries including South Africa. There are two types of Residence status that one may take up in Malta. In both cases, one must purchase or rent a property in Malta.. Individuals residing in Malta are taxable only on income arising and/or remitted to Malta at the applicable rates depending on the residence status one has opted for.
The property market in Malta might be an interesting prospect. It is an ideal investment as well as the perfect home away from home. The procedures are straight forward and foreign investors are encouraged and assisted actively by government to invest in Malta. There are also options to set up business in Malta where Malta has become a hub for the IT, financial and gaming industries amongst others due to their tax advantages.
The Below regulations are outdated. The Maltese Government has recently introduced a New Global Residence Programme which is suitable for South African Nationals interested in purchasing real estate in Malta as well as taking up residence on the Maltese Islands. Read Global Residence Programme page on the main website for a more details picture.
Residents Scheme Regulations, 2004
One may take up residence in Malta by obtaining a certificate from the Inland Revenue Department, which certificate is issued for an indefinite period as long as certain conditions are satisfied on an annual basis. Holders may therefore reside indefinitely in Malta and may enter and leave Malta as and when required without the need of any other formalities.
The following is a list of incentives and advantages applicable to holders of a certificate in terms of the Residents Scheme Regulations:
Conditions for Application
One must own worldwide capital of at least €352,000 (or equivalent) or have an annual income of not less than €23,500 (or equivalent) arising outside Malta. The permit holder is also required to remit €14,100 per annum (plus €2,350 for each dependant, including the spouse) into Malta. The minimum remittances must not be repatriated out of Malta.
Furthermore, a holder of a Residents Scheme certificate is required to purchase or lease property in Malta, having the following minimum values:
Application Process
The application form has to be accompanied by the following documents:
All the above documents must be certified by a Notary and apostilled by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the country of nationality.
Timing
The issue of a certificate typically takes around three months from the date of the application. The minimum amount of tax shall be payable within thirty days of approval of the application and shall be credited against the tax due for the first year of residence. The holder of a permit must take up residence within 12 months from the issue of the said permit.
Endorsement of Passport
Non EU citizens are required to have their passport endorsed with the residence stamp. This is obtained by filing an application with a separate department, which stamp is valid for a period of one year and may be renewed on an annual basis as long as the annual conditions on the residence permit certificate have been fulfilled. A fee of €23.29 is payable to the respective department on submission of the application.
Other Residents
This scheme is intended for individuals seeking to transfer their tax residence from high tax countries to those offering lower tax regimes.
An individual who is economically self-sufficient must prove to the authorities that he or she is in receipt of an annual income of €23,000 if married and €14,000 if single.
An individual may also become a resident of Malta as a consequence of taking up employment in Malta. A foreigner taking up such employment would require employment permission, which would be applied for by his employer. Tax Benefits as outlined under the Residence Scheme above will however cease to be applicable to be replaced by rates as shown in the below table.
Taxation
For tax purposes an individual is normally regarded as being resident in Malta for a particular year if, in that year, his stay in Malta exceeds 183 days.
The applicable income tax rates are, however, the normal rates of income tax applicable to residents, which are as follows:
Non EU citizens are required to have their passport endorsed with the residence or employment permit stamp depending on the purpose of residence. This stamp is obtained by filing an application and is valid for a period of one year and may be renewed on an annual basis. A fee of €23.29 is payable to the respective department on submission of the application.An individual who is in receipt of income arising and/or remitted to Malta however does not reside in Malta is subject to such income at the nonresident rates as follows: Married couples may also opt for “single” rates individually on certain income.
Non EU Citizens may import their household effects into Malta free of VAT and import duties. For non-EU citizens Customs may initially require either a deposit or a bank guarantee for the amount of VAT/duty in question. Upon the expiry of 200 cumulative days stay in Malta, any such deposits or bank guarantees are refunded or cancelled, provided that the duration of stay can be proved upon request. Household Effects
Inheritance and capital transfer tax
Identity Cards
Non EU residents in Malta may apply for an identity card only once they have obtained the stamp on their passport. A Maltese identity card is obtained by completing an application with the relevant authority. A Maltese identity card is not a travelling document for foreigners, however it may be found useful for applying for various services in Malta such as television, telephone, banking and other services.
Buying Property in Malta
Whether you are Buying a property in Malta as an Investment or as your own personal residence in Malta our associates understand that you need to make an informed decision. This is the reason why we train our people to be professional and precise with the information they provide. All of our associates go through a strict screening process and are put through our world renowned training programme “Succeed” which is an A-Z educational programme specifically designed by leading real estate associates in the Industry for real estate professionals.
It has been a long standing custom in Malta where locals have always believed in purchasing property rather than renting. This tradition has said to have contributed to the increase in property prices over the years and has continued to keep the industry solid. Over the past decade the real estate industry in Malta has seen a year on year increase in property prices up until the last couple of years where we have seen different markets affected differently. The low end to middle price ranges has seen a drop in prices over the last couple quarters whereas the high end market has not been affected as much if at all. There are opportunities in every type of market and it will be a pleasure to guide you step by step in purchasing your property our country.
Our buying procedure is simple and straight forward plus it protects both the vendor and the buyer unlike in some other countries where one may experience Gazumping or outbidding. Just as most Maltese are bilingual, legal documents tend to be in either English or Maltese. As leading realtors in Malta we are able to recommend a Notary to you however you may also get advice from your own.
One may also rent a property beforehand to get an idea of the market before taking the plunge. We are able to organize hotel accommodation for you should you prefer through our contacts in Malta at preferential rates as well as any other service required through our concierge service.
The opportunities are endless and RE/MAX Malta can show you the way professionally and advise you through the full process accordingly. Hereunder is a guide to buying your property in Malta. Of course should you have any queries you may contact our International real estate liaison and Regional Director Jeff Buttigieg on +356 99475620 or send an email to him directly on jeff@remax-malta.com
General Procedures and Costs
Once the immovable property has been selected and we have assisted you in negotiating the price as well as any special conditions duly negotiated and agreed upon an appointment is set to sign the Preliminary Agreement or what is commonly known as ‘Konvenju’. This is essentially an agreement binding both the purchaser and the vendor to conclude the transaction within an established date (term of Konvenju) subject to a set of conditions.On signing of the ‘Konvenju’ you will be required to pay 1% provisional stamp duty as part payment of the full 5% which the balance is due on signing of the final deed and an agreed deposit which is generally 10% in such circumstances.
During the ‘Konvenju’:
During this time we can be called upon to assist in any queries the client might have. We have very good relationships with all the leading banks on the island and can therefore also assist you as the client in setting up meetings with the bank of your choice.
Once all the above has been completed by all parties concerned a date is set for the actual signing of the Final Deed. The venue of the signing will be held at the local banks legal offices in the case that one may be obtaining finance or either at one of the RE/MAX offices or at the office of the Notary Public. The final deed is read and agreed upon and the balances due will be paid accordingly. Theses are; balance of the selling price to the vendor; the balance due to the Commissioner of Inland Revenue for stamp duty as well as 1% Notary fees to the Notary Public.
Buying a Property in Malta as a second home/Non-EU Resident
If you are a foreigner to the European Union or if you are a Citizen of a European Union however the property you are purchasing is not for a prime residence in order to purchase a property in Malta there is a minimum price that one must pay for an apartment as well as for a house or a villa to be able to obtain an AIP (Acquisition of Immovable Property) permit which is granted by the Ministry of Finance and usually takes some 6-8 weeks. These prices are € 174, 703 (Lm75, 000) (if a house or villa) or € 98, 066 (Lm42, 100).
Buying a Property in Malta as a primary residence
Citizens of all European Union member states, who have resided in Malta continually for a minimum period of five years at any time preceding the date of acquisition, may freely acquire more than one immovable property without necessity of obtaining a permit.EU Citizens, who have not resided in Malta for at least five years, but have the intention of purchasing their primary residence (take up residence in Malta), do not require a permit, under chapter 246, nor do they require a permit to purchase immovable property required for their business activities or supply of services.
Acquisition of Companies
A body of persons, other than a commercial partnership, established in, and operating from a European Union member state may freely acquire immovable property that is required for the purpose for which it has been set up as long as it is directly controlled by citizens of the European Union Member state who has resided in Malta continuously for five years. A commercial partnership established and operating from a European member state (therefore including Malta) may freely acquire immovable property that is required for the purpose for which it has been set up as long as such partnership is controlled by and at least 75% of its share capital is held by a person (or persons) who is a European Union member state citizen and who has resided in Malta continuously for five years. Any other body of persons require a permit, which is only granted if the property is required for an industrial or touristic project or as a contributor to the development of the economy of Malta.Permission may be refused for the purchasing of property, which is considered to be of historical interest
Income Tax/ Tax on Capital Gains
The good news regarding real estate in Malta is that our legal system does not impose wealth or property taxes, adding one more important advantage to buying property in Malta which at the time of preparation of this document this regime was structured as follows:
Renting out:
In cases where income is derived from activity generated directly through the employment of the immovable property itself. In other words if the property is rented out resulting in revenue being generated through this activity then this revenue will become subject to taxes which as foreign nationals will be subject to the (still) very favourable flat rate of 15%.
Selling:
The tax structure set out for this eventuality although simple to follow is detailed to explain and does not really fall within the scope of this document.
Benefits of Buying Property in Malta
In summary, Citizens of an EU Member State enjoy the benefit that they can buy their first property in Malta without restriction. Permits are not required in most cases and when they are they are easily issued to all bona-fide purchasers without any major requirements.
Typical assistance provided by a RE/MAX Associate
1. Identify the most suitable properly according to the clients requirements and criteria, from our extensive database;
2. Organise and carry out viewings;
3. Follow up, continually assisting the client until the properly has been selected;
4. Carry out negotiations with the Endeavour of obtaining the best market price and payment terms. Our office will also assist in organising the preliminary agreement (Promise of Sale or, as mare commonly known, Konvenju (where a Notary Public will be appointed either as chosen by the client or through our office. This document will bind both vendor and purchaser during the term required to carry out the appropriate searches to verify legal title and during which our associate, through our office, will remain available to offer any assistance required.
Portomaso, located within the Hilton Complex, is one of the most prestigious property developments in Malta. It is one of those luxurious locations where the travelling businessmen, expatriates and local families find very convenient. With everything at your feet, including an underground high end Supermarket with all amenities, shopping arcade, Hilton Hotel, various restaurants and other entertainment places as well as underground parking, the complex has become a prime investment development where buyers are almost guaranteed return on investment and a rental return if required.
Here are a couple of sample properties:
PORTOMASO – Brand new, double fronted APARTMENT being sold fully furnished. Highly finished property comprising an open plan kitchen with a split level living area leading onto a good size terrace and double bedroom ensuite overlooing the marina complete with walk-in wardrobe as well as a jacuzzi. Property includes a large laundry (potential second bedroom). €628,931
PORTOMASO – Highly finished three-bedroom APARTMENT available in one of Malta’s most prestigious developments, comprising of an open plan kitchen/breakfast/living leading to a terrace enjoying marina views, three good sized bedrooms, main with an en-suite, and a guest bathroom. One car parking space included in price as well as all the high quality furniture. € 885, 162
PORTOMA SO – Opportunity to acquire a DUPLEX APARTMENT situated in this prestigious development. Property measuring 113.4sqm is being offered highly finished and comprising a large open plan kitchen/living/dining with terrace, main bathroom and a double bedroom. Residence is still on plan and will be complete in June 2009. Car spaces are also available. €442,581
View other Property for sale in Portomaso
Tigne Point
Tigne Point, located on the peninsula tip of Sliema, is a new residential, commercial and leisure development, exceptionally set against the dramatic backdrop of 500 years of history. Completely pedestrianised, the development comprises of two different schemes of residential apartments, as well as a commercial centre and additional sports and leisure facilities.
Two hundred and forty high quality apartments hug the south shore, offering residents some spectacular views of the world renowned Valletta Bastions, unrivalled landscaping and a calm environment of private gardens and courtyards. On the north side of the peninsula, facing the sea, are an additional 200 luxury apartments against a bustling urban backdrop.
The two main residential branches of the project, Tigne North and South, converge upon Pjazza Tigné. Inspired by the busy atmosphere typical of Malta’s many picturesque town squares, the Pjazza forms the project’s natural hub, bringing together a wide-ranging assortment of exclusive shops, cafés and bars. Elsewhere, health and well-being facilities, restaurants, a clubhouse, and a shoreline swimming pool can all be enjoyed at Tigné Point.
The combination of the old with the modern architecture, the beautiful sea and the fantastic fortifications is quite simply captivating!
Here are a couple of sample properties:
SLIEMA (TIGNE) – Fantastic south facing Duplex Apartment prominently located on the prestigious Tigne Seafront, offering stunning views of Valletta and the open sea from it’s large terraces, magnificent living areas and main bedroom suite. Boasting an overall area of 319sq.m. and offering extremely spacious and bright accomodation in the form of a beautiful combined kitchen (inc.pantry) / living (incl. guest toilet) with a seperate split level sitting/dining both leading onto own sunny terraces. Upper level sleeping quarters offer two double bedrooms and a stunning seafront main bedroom suite inc. walk in wardrobe/ensuite bath. Property is being offered highly finished making this an overall great investment. € 715, 118
TIGNE’ POINT – Luxury PENTHOUSE, with private pool, located on the 10th floor and forming part of the most exciting project presently being developed on the island. Set right on a tip of a peninsula directly opposite the historical Valletta Bastions the whole development offers a setting of a unique kind. The apartment is presently being finished to the highest specifications and offers a layout in the form of 3 double bedrooms all inclusive of en-suite bathrooms, a guest cloakroom, very large kitchen (complete with pantry) adjoining the day family room, large sitting/dining, spacious surrounding terrace, pool deck and good sized swimming pool. Price includes 3 car spaces. € 1, 770, 324
TIGNE POINT – A 174 sqm APARTMENT available in Malta’s most prestigious up-coming development Tigne Point. Being offered highly finished including full air-conditioning and under-floor heating in bathrooms and Master bedroom) this lovely property offers an entrance hall, large sitting/dining, kitchen/living all leading to a sizeable front terrace. Two good size bedrooms(main with en-suite and walk in wardrobe), main bathroom, spare toilet, and utility room complete with a drying terrace. Optional car space. € 423, 954
View other Property for sale in Tigne Point
Typical Seafront Apartments
SLIEMA – Fort Cambridge – New on the market, being sold at pre-construction prices, APARTMENT being offered in Malta`s most exclusive development ‘FORT CAMBRIDGE’, truly an attractive APARTMENT with approximately 135sqm plus a beautiful terrace. Accommodation in the form of a massive lounge/living, kitchen/breakfast, two double bedrooms main with ensuite, main bathroom and a terrace. Optional garage available. Priced to sell. € 323 783
SLIEMA SEAFRONT – Beautiful APARTMENT consisting of large entrance hall, three double bedrooms, two bathrooms (one of which is en-suite), a good sized living / dining with secluded kitchen, front balcony with breathtaking views of Manoel Island and Valletta, approx 125sqm with one car space included. Must be seen. €595,000
View other Property for Sale in Fort Cambridge
Typical Villa
MADLIENA – This luxury Villa enjoys a large living space, kitchen, dining room and bathroom overlooking the pool area on ground floor level. Three double bedrooms (master with en-suite) with balconies and one bathroom on first floor level. A separate gym and laundry room is situated at roof top level also enjoying its unobstructed sea and country views. This luxury residence also benefits from an utility room and a four car garage at semi-basement level with an interconnecting lift to all floors. € 556 720
View other villas for sale in Malta