Moving Your Business to Malta: Visa Routes for Founders and Investors

This guide covers the 1 verified route for founders and investors moving a business to Malta. Every figure comes from our program review dated September 15, 2026. Rules change often, so treat this as a starting point and confirm the details with an expert before you commit money or time.

Startup Residence Programme (MSRP)

The MSRP grants a 3-year residence permit (extendable to 5) to founders of innovative startups, requiring a minimum €25,000 tangible investment or paid-up share capital, plus an additional €10,000 for each co-founder beyond the program's base limit. Unlike some comparable programs, MSRP explicitly requires physical presence in Malta of 183+ days per year — this is not a program for founders who want to operate remotely while holding residency elsewhere. Core employees hired under the scheme need a minimum salary of €30,000.

Who it suits: Non-EU founders and co-founders (up to 6) plus core employees of innovative startups less than 7 years old. Minimum investment: €25,000 tangible investment / paid-up share capital, plus €10,000 per additional co-founder. Active involvement: Yes — 183+ days/year physical presence required. What you receive: 3-year residence permit, extendable to 5 years. Family: Yes — immediate family included. Path to permanent residence: Conditional — long-term residency after 5 years of continuous residence.

Worth knowing: This programme is separate from Malta's citizenship and residence-by-investment schemes. Its eligibility rules are versioned (V4.2, 27 August 2025) and can change, so check the current version before you apply.

This guide is directional guidance only and is not legal or immigration advice. A consulting session will tell you which route fits your business and what to prepare first.