Key facts
- Lease must be
- Written and registered
- Long lease minimum
- 1 year
- Annual increase cap
- 5% (if in the lease)
- Leave in year 1
- 1 month's notice
- EPC
- Landlord must provide
- MPRP lease minimum
- €14,000 a year
Renting first is the smart way to arrive in Malta. It lets you learn the neighbourhoods, test the commute and the school run, and then buy with confidence. The Private Residential Leases Act, in force since 2020, gives tenants a clear framework.
Where to look
- Sliema, St Julian’s and Gżira — walkable harbour-front living, cafés and co-working. See Sliema and St Julian’s.
- Swieqi, Pembroke and Madliena — quieter, greener, close to international schools. See Swieqi and Madliena and Pembroke.
- Valletta and the Three Cities — historic character, harbour views. See Valletta and the Three Cities.
- The Three Villages, Naxxar and Mosta — central, residential, family homes with gardens. See the Three Villages.
- Mellieħa — sea, space and a slower pace. See Mellieħa.
What the law guarantees
| Protection | Detail |
|---|---|
| Written contract | Every residential lease must be in writing |
| Registration | With the Housing Authority — ask for proof |
| Minimum term | Long leases at least 1 year |
| Rent increases | Once a year, max 5%, only if the lease provides |
| Leaving early | 1 month’s notice (under 2 years), 2 months (2–3 years), 3 months (3+ years) |
| Energy Performance Certificate | Must be made available by the landlord |
Short leases of up to six months are only permitted for specific purposes — non-resident workers, students and people needing alternative housing.
Deposits
There is no statutory maximum deposit in the Act. Agree the amount, what it can be used for and the timetable for its return in writing, and sign a photographic inventory on the day you move in.
Before you sign — ask
- Is the lease registered with the Housing Authority, and will I receive confirmation?
- What is included — furniture, appliances, air conditioning, parking, internet?
- Who pays utilities, and is the account on the residential tariff for the right number of residents?
- Who handles repairs, and how quickly?
- Are pets allowed? (See bringing pets to Malta.)
- Does the rent and lease meet my residency programme’s minimum, if I need it to?
Leases that qualify for residency
A lease can be your qualifying property for several programmes:
| Programme | Minimum annual rent |
|---|---|
| MPRP | €14,000 |
| Global Residence Programme | €9,600 (€8,750 South/Gozo) |
| Malta Retirement Programme | €9,600 (€8,750 South/Gozo) |
| Nomad Residence Permit | A valid lease |
Once you have the keys, work through our move-in checklist. When you are ready to buy, our advisors can show you homes in the neighbourhood you have come to love.
