Camilleri didn’t provide any data as to how many applications were filed and how many have been approved, and Lovin Malta has requested this information from the ministry. 

The Permanent Residence Programme offers people the chance to live indefinitely in Malta and benefit from visa-free travel across the EU’s Schengen Area. 

Applicants must have at least €500,000 in capital when applying and they must purchase a property worth at least €350,000 (€300,000 if in South Malta or Gozo) or rent one for at least €12,000 a year (€10,00 if in South Malta or Gozo). 

They must also pay the government an additional contribution of €28,000 (if purchasing a property) or €58,000 (if renting), as well as a €40,000 administrative fee and a €2,000 donation to a NGO.

“A record number of applicants means a record of direct investment in the economy through property purchases and rent, but also through money in the government’s consolidated fund that it can then use to subsidise energy, carry out infrastructural projects and increase pensions,” Camilleri said. 

“It doesn’t mean that people don’t have a point when they talk about higher food prices, but we understand them so much that we’re playing our part.”

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