Buying Property in Malta

Buying property in Malta is simple and straightforward. Different conditions apply, depending on whether you are an EU citizen or not, but this is the basic procedure.

A preliminary agreement is signed between the buyer and the seller, in the presence of a notary or lawyer; this is binding on both parties and a 10% to 20 % deposit is usually paid by the buyer at this stage, as well as a percentage of the tax on purchase.

The preliminary agreement is in force for an agreed period, during which time the buyer’s notary or lawyer carries out the necessary research on deeds pertaining to the property, which are filed in the Public Records Office.

When permits (if necessary) are issued by the government of Malta, the final contract is entered into. The balance of the purchase price, tax and legal fees are paid and ownership is transferred to the buyer.