AIP Permit
Dr. Michael LaferlaNotary · Notary, Notarial Council of MaltaThe Acquisition of Immovable Property Permit, required under Maltese law for certain non-resident purchasers of property in Malta. The AIP Permit is issued by the Minister responsible for Finance under Chapter 246 of the Laws of Malta — the Immovable Property (Acquisition by Non-Residents) Act. Not all foreign buyers require one; the requirement depends on nationality, residency status, and the intended use of the property.
The AIP Permit regime exists to regulate property acquisition by non-residents in Malta. Whether an individual buyer needs one depends on three factors: their nationality, their residency status in Malta, and whether the property will be a primary or secondary residence.
EU citizens and Maltese nationals generally do not require an AIP Permit if the property is for primary residence purposes, or if they have resided in Malta continuously for at least five years prior to acquisition. For secondary residence purposes (where the five-year residency hasn't been met), an AIP Permit is required.
Third-country nationals (non-EU citizens) generally require an AIP Permit for any property acquisition, with some exceptions for individuals holding long-term resident status under the Immigration Act.
Properties within Special Designated Areas (SDAs) are exempt from the AIP requirement entirely. These zones are listed in the First Schedule of Chapter 246 and include developments such as Portomaso, Tigné Point, Pender Place, Mercury House, and others designated by Government Gazette. No AIP is needed regardless of nationality, residency, or how many properties are acquired within SDAs.
One-property restriction. Where an AIP Permit applies, the holder may purchase only one property in Malta (unless that property is in an SDA). Property acquired under an AIP Permit cannot be rented out — it must be used for the purposes specified in the permit.
Application process. The AIP application requires a copy of the preliminary agreement of sale (Konvenju), passport copies, photographs, and other documentation. The permit is typically issued within 35 days of submission. Minimum property values apply (these vary and are periodically updated; current values are published by the Ministry of Finance).
Sources
- Immovable Property (Acquisition by Non-Residents) Act, Chapter 246 of the Laws of Malta — statutory authority for the AIP regime
- Ministry of Finance / Malta Tax & Customs Administration — administration of AIP applications, current minimum property values, list of Special Designated Areas
