Key facts
- Legal basis
- Chapter 246, Laws of Malta
- Minimum value — apartment
- €174,274
- Minimum value — other
- €300,619
- Number of properties
- Normally one
- Letting out
- Not permitted
- Fee / target time
- €233 / 35 days
The Acquisition of Immovable Property (AIP) permit is the authorisation non-residents need to buy property in Malta outside the Special Designated Areas. It is issued under Chapter 246 of the Laws of Malta and processed by the tax authorities. For most buyers it is a formality handled by the notary — provided the property and the plan fit its conditions.
Who needs an AIP permit?
- Non-EU individuals buying outside an SDA.
- EU citizens who have not lived in Malta continuously for five years and are buying a property other than their first residence.
- Companies and other bodies registered abroad, or with 25% or more non-resident ownership.
- Non-resident trustees, with limited exceptions.
Who does not?
- Maltese citizens, and EU citizens resident in Malta for five years or more.
- The spouse of a Maltese or qualifying EU citizen buying jointly.
- Anyone buying in a Special Designated Area — see SDAs explained.
The conditions
Minimum value
The property must be worth at least a minimum amount, updated periodically by Legal Notice. Under Legal Notice 174 of 2024:
| Property type | Minimum value |
|---|---|
| Apartment or maisonette | €174,274 |
| Any other property (house, villa, townhouse) | €300,619 |
One property, for your own use
A permit is normally granted for one residential property, which must be used as a residence by you and your family. It cannot be let to third parties or subdivided into several dwellings.
How to apply
The application is usually filed by your notary after the promise of sale is signed. It includes:
- the completed application form;
- a copy of the promise of sale;
- a copy of your passport and photographs.
The application fee is €233, with a service target of around 35 days. Make the permit a condition of the promise of sale, so you can withdraw with your deposit if it is refused. After the deed, a copy is submitted to the authorities.
AIP or SDA — which is right for you?
| AIP permit property | SDA property | |
|---|---|---|
| Permit needed | Yes | No |
| Number of properties | One | No limit |
| Letting out | Not permitted | Permitted |
| Choice of location | Almost anywhere in Malta and Gozo | Designated developments only |
| Minimum value | Yes (see above) | Market price |
If you want a character home in a village, a villa with land or a Valletta palazzo, the AIP route is usually the way. If you want flexibility to let, or to own more than one property, choose an SDA.
