Best Golden Visa Lawyers in Mosta

About Golden Visa Law in Mosta, Malta

The Golden Visa program in Mosta, Malta refers to the Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP). This is a residency-by-investment scheme that allows non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss nationals to obtain the right to reside in Malta on a permanent basis. Mosta, a central town near Valletta, is a popular area for expatriates and investors seeking to benefit from Malta’s residency options. Applicants are required to make a qualifying property investment or lease, a government contribution, and a donation to a Maltese non-governmental organization. The program offers benefits such as visa-free travel within the Schengen Area and the right to live, settle, and stay in Malta indefinitely.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Engaging a lawyer is highly recommended in the process of applying for a Golden Visa in Mosta, Malta. Common situations where legal assistance is needed include preparing and reviewing application documents, performing due diligence for property purchases or leases, ensuring that investment requirements are met, interpreting Maltese immigration law, handling correspondence with the Residency Malta Agency, and appealing a rejected application. A lawyer can also help address tax planning issues, arrange for translations of documents, and represent you in cases where legal disputes arise regarding your residency status or property investments.

Local Laws Overview

Local laws governing Golden Visa applicants in Mosta, Malta, stem from national legislation specific to the Malta Permanent Residence Programme Regulations, Subsidiary Legislation 217.26. Key aspects include:

• Applicants must be third-country nationals (not EU, EEA, or Swiss citizens).
• A qualifying property investment or an annual lease agreement in Malta is required.
• A non-refundable government contribution (currently at least 68,000 euros if property is purchased, or 98,000 euros if leased) is mandatory.
• A donation to a registered local philanthropic, cultural, scientific, artistic, sport, or animal welfare NGO is required.
• Applicants must have a clean criminal record, reliable income, and adequate health insurance.
• The principal applicant can include spouses, dependent children, and in some cases, dependent parents or grandparents.
• Applicants may need to pass strict due diligence checks by Maltese authorities.

It is important to note that while the scheme grants residency rights, it does not confer Maltese citizenship.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Malta Golden Visa?

The Malta Golden Visa, officially the Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP), allows non-EU nationals to obtain permanent residency in Malta by making a qualifying property investment or lease, paying a government contribution, and making a charitable donation.

Who is eligible for a Golden Visa in Mosta, Malta?

Eligibility is limited to non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss nationals who have stable and regular resources, a clean criminal record, health insurance, and can fulfill the investment requirements.

What are the investment requirements?

You must either purchase property for at least 350,000 euros in Mosta or its surrounding towns (or 300,000 euros in South Malta/Gozo), or lease a property at a minimum of 12,000 euros per year (10,000 euros in South Malta/Gozo), plus pay a government contribution and a donation to a local NGO.

Can family members be included in my application?

Yes, you can include your spouse or partner, dependent children, and dependent parents or grandparents in the same application.

How long does the application process take?

On average, the process takes between 4 to 6 months from submission of a complete application to final approval, assuming all requirements are satisfied and documents are in order.

Does the Golden Visa grant citizenship?

No, the Golden Visa only grants the right to reside in Malta permanently. Citizenship is a separate process with different requirements.

What are the main benefits of the Maltese Golden Visa?

Benefits include the right to live indefinitely in Malta, visa-free travel within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, no minimum stay requirements, and advantages regarding tax planning and family inclusion.

Can I work in Malta with the Golden Visa?

The Golden Visa grants residence, but not the automatic right to work. You must apply separately for a work permit if you intend to take up employment in Malta.

What documents are needed to apply?

Main documents include your passport, birth certificate, proof of source of funds, health insurance, police conduct certificates from each country you have lived in, property purchase or lease agreement, and other supporting documents for each family member.

What happens if my application is rejected?

If your application is rejected, you may appeal the decision or submit a new application. Legal help is essential to review reasons for rejection and guide you through the appeals process or rectifying deficiencies.

Additional Resources

For more information or assistance regarding Golden Visa applications in Mosta, Malta, consider reaching out to the following organizations:

• Residency Malta Agency - the government authority managing the Malta Permanent Residence Programme.
• Malta Chamber of Commerce - for business-related advice if you are investing.
• Maltese Embassy or Consulate in your country - for guidance on document authentication.
• Local law firms in Mosta with expertise in immigration and real estate law.
• Property agencies registered with the Malta Financial Services Authority.
• Maltese NGOs for fulfilling the philanthropic contribution requirement.

Next Steps

If you are considering applying for a Golden Visa in Mosta, Malta or have encountered challenges during your application, it is advisable to seek professional legal assistance. Begin by:

• Contacting a qualified lawyer in Mosta experienced in immigration and property law.
• Gathering all necessary personal and financial documents as early as possible.
• Preparing questions or concerns you may have about the process, especially regarding eligibility and document requirements.
• Requesting a consultation to discuss your specific situation and obtain tailored legal assistance.

A legal professional can guide you through each step, help you avoid common pitfalls, and ensure that your application is accurate and complete. Taking these steps early will help pave the way towards a successful residence application under the Golden Visa program in Mosta, Malta.