Malta Property Glossary (2025) – Yitaku

Buying, renting, or investing in property in Malta comes with its own set of terms and processes. This glossary, specific to Property in Malta, explains the most important real estate terms in simple language, so you can make informed decisions faster.

Key Property Terms in Malta - The complete property glossary

Konvenju (Promise of Sale)

A preliminary agreement signed between buyer and seller before the final contract.

• Usually valid for 3 to 12 months.

• Buyer pays a 10% deposit and 1% provisional stamp duty.

  
  

  👉 Read our Guide to Buying Property in Malta.

Stamp Duty

A government tax paid by buyers when purchasing property.

• Standard rate: 5% of the property price.

• First-time buyers: pay 0% on the first €200,000.

• Second-time buyers: can claim refunds on up to €86,000.

  
  

  👉 First-Time vs Second-Time Buyers Blog.

First-Time Buyer Scheme

An incentive for people buying their first property.

• Exemption from stamp duty on the first €200,000.

• Applies to both locals and EU citizens residing in Malta.

  
  

  👉 FAQ: What help is available for first-time buyers?

Second-Time Buyer Scheme

A refund of stamp duty when purchasing a second home.

• Refund on the first €86,000 of property value.

• Increased to €150,000 for people with disabilities or their guardians.

  
  

  👉 Read our Buyer Incentives Blog.

AIP Permit (Acquisition of Immovable Property)

A permit required for non-EU citizens buying property outside designated areas.

• Not required for Maltese or EU citizens who are residents.

• Fee: ~€233 per application.

  
  

  👉 FAQ: What is an AIP permit in Malta?.

Special Designated Areas (SDAs)

Developments where foreigners can buy without restrictions.

• Examples: Portomaso, Tigné Point, Fort Chambray.

• Properties in SDAs can be freely rented or resold.

  
  

  👉 Investment Properties Blog.

Ground Rent (Cens)

A fee paid annually to the landowner if the property is not fully freehold.

• Some properties in Malta are sold with ground rent.

• Buyers can redeem it to become freehold.

Freehold vs Leasehold

• Freehold: You own the property and land indefinitely.

• Leasehold: You own the property for a fixed term (usually 99 or 125 years).

Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)

A legal requirement when selling or renting property.

• Shows how energy-efficient the home is.

• Must be presented by the seller or landlord.

Notary

A qualified legal professional who:

• Drafts contracts.

• Performs searches to confirm property ownership and debts.

• Registers the sale with the authorities.

ARMS (Utilities Registration)

The official provider of electricity and water in Malta.

• Tenants or buyers must register to apply for residential tariffs.

  
  

  👉 Moving to Malta Checklist.

Capital Gains Tax (CGT)

Tax applied when selling property in Malta.

• Usually 8% of the property price, but exemptions apply for primary residences.

How Yitaku Helps

With Yitaku, you don’t just search for properties — you also get tools and guidance to navigate Malta’s property market:

• Property Alerts – daily updates for new listings.

• Loan Calculator – estimate your repayments.

• My Coupons – save on home-related services.

• Neighbourhood Guides – explore the best areas before you buy.

👉 Download Yitaku to simplify your property journey.

FAQ – Malta Property Terms

What is a Konvenju in Malta?

It’s a promise of sale agreement, valid for around 3 months, with a 10% deposit.

Do foreigners need a permit to buy property in Malta?

Yes, non-EU citizens need an AIP permit unless buying in a Special Designated Area.

How much is stamp duty in Malta?

The standard rate is 5%, but first-time and second-time buyers enjoy exemptions.

What’s the difference between freehold and leasehold in Malta?

Freehold means you own the property forever, leasehold is time-limited ownership.