Malta Start-up Programme
The Malta Start-Up Residence Programme gives non-EU entrepreneurs a fast track to building their business inside the EU, with a residence permit covering founders, co-founders and key early employees.
- Initial permit
- 3 years
- Renewable for
- Up to 5 years
- Minimum investment
- €25,000
- Business age
- Under 7 years
Eligibility
Who can apply
Founder status
Nationality and age
Investment
Genuine presence
Standing
What you'll need
- Business plan for submission to Malta Enterprise
- Proof of investment or paid-up share capital
- A valid passport
- Health insurance covering Malta
- Police conduct certificate
- Proof of accommodation — a Housing Authority registered lease
Duration and fees
- Initial permit
- 3 years
- Renewal
- Up to 5 further years
- Minimum investment
- €25,000
- Additional co-founders
- +€10,000 each beyond four
- Maximum co-founders
- 6
- Route to permanent residency
- 5 years continuous residence
Benefits
Why this route works
EU market access
A central Mediterranean location with straightforward, low-cost incorporation and access to the European market.
Funding schemes
Dedicated support through Malta Enterprise — Business Start, Startup Finance, Business Development and the Soft Loan Scheme.
Favourable tax regime
Malta's tax framework is well suited to early-stage companies scaling into Europe.
Path to permanent residency
Five years of continuous residence opens the door to permanent residency.
How we help
Accommodation that meets the requirement
Applications are delayed or refused when accommodation documentation isn't compliant. We provide leases built for exactly this purpose.
- Registered room leases from €400 per month
- Registration with the Housing Authority
- An official correspondence address
- Mail handling and ongoing administrative support
See our full range of services, or walk through the application process step by step.
Common questions
Which sectors qualify?
The programme targets genuinely early-stage companies in technology, software, biotech, life sciences, manufacturing, and green or blue economy ventures.
Are any nationalities excluded?
Yes. Nationals of certain restricted countries are not eligible — currently including Afghanistan, Iran, North Korea, Syria, Yemen and Venezuela, among a small number of others. Confirm current restrictions before applying.
What is the application sequence?
Submit your application and business plan to Malta Enterprise for eligibility approval, incorporate your start-up in Malta and register with the relevant authorities, and your residence permit is issued once approved and incorporated.
Do I need an address before incorporating?
Yes. Malta Enterprise will expect a registered business address, and you will need compliant accommodation for the residence permit. Both are services we provide.
Need a registered lease for the Malta Start-up Programme?
Tell us your timeline and we'll confirm what you need and how quickly we can arrange it.