Alongside its supportive community, Malta provides a range of residency and citizenship options, including the Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) and Citizenship by naturalisation for Exceptional Services by Direct investment, making it an ideal choice for those seeking both opportunity and a secure, diverse home.
LGBT Rights and Inclusivity in Malta
Malta's journey towards becoming a leader in LGBT rights has been marked by significant milestones. In 2014, a bill was approved to protect LGBT individuals from discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation. This was followed by the legalization of same-sex marriage in 2017 and the introduction of adoption rights for same-sex couples.
These progressive policies reflect Malta’s commitment to creating a safe, inclusive society, making it a prime choice for LGBT expats. With legislation that safeguards individual rights and ensures equal access to resources, LGBT individuals and families can enjoy a supportive community in Malta.
Same-sex couples can also apply jointly for the Malta Permanent Residence Programme, and also the citizenship programme which requires a marriage or civil union certificate or evidence of a relationship.
Quality of Life for LGBT Expats in Malta
Malta is celebrated not only for its inclusivity but also for its vibrant and welcoming culture. The island offers LGBT expats a wide range of resources, support groups, and social opportunities. Organizations like the Malta Gay Rights Movement (MGRM) work actively to promote and protect LGBT rights, while events like the Malta Pride showcase the island’s dedication to diversity and solidarity. For expats, this means a stable, high quality of life in a country that respects and celebrates diversity.
Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP)
The Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) offers non-EU nationals a straightforward path to permanent residence, ideal for LGBT expats seeking stability and freedom of movement within the Schengen Zone.
The main applicant under the MPRP must beat least 18 years old and possess capital assets of not less than €500,000, of which €150,000 must be financial assets.
- Eligibility Requirements: The MPRP requires a real estate investment (renting or purchasing property) and a contribution to the Maltese government of €68,000 if purchasing or €98,000 if renting a property. Applicants must also contribute €2,000 to charity and demonstrate financial stability, ensuring that they can support themselves and their families without reliance on Maltese public funds.
- Benefits: MPRP residents gain the right to live in Malta indefinitely, with visa-free travel throughout the Schengen Area. As an MPRP resident, you are eligible to bring family members, including spouses and children, creating a secure pathway for LGBT families who wish to reside together in a welcoming environment.
- Living in Malta as an MPRP Resident: Beyond the residency status, LGBT expats can immerse themselves in a culture that values diversity. Malta offers a strong LGBT community, support networks, and a variety of LGBT-inclusive spaces and events.
Malta Citizenship by Investment
For those who wish to fully integrate into Maltese society, Malta offers a route to citizenship through naturalisation by exceptional investment. This option can be especially appealing to LGBT expats who want to enjoy the rights and privileges of EU citizenship.
This pathway involves a significant investment in Malta, along with a residence period before citizenship can be granted. This period allows individuals and families to experience life in Malta while fulfilling requirements.
To qualify for Maltese citizenship by investment, applicants must meet the following financial requirements:
- Exceptional Direct Investment: €600,000 for a residency period of 36 months, or €750,000 for a residency period of 12 months
- Additional Investment for Dependents: €50,000 for each dependent included in the application
- Property Purchase or Rental: Purchase a residential property in Malta worth at least €700,000, which must be held for five years or rent a property with a minimum annual rent €16,000, also to be held for 5 years.
- Contribution to Charity: Applicant must also donate €10,000 to a registered philanthropic, cultural, sport, scientific, animal welfare, or artistic non-governmental organization approved by the citizenship agency.
Our Immigration Services
For more than 20 years, our firm has been a leading authority in citizenship and naturalisation law, successfully assisting LGBT individuals and families secure Maltese citizenship or residency in Malta.
Malta’s forward-thinking approach to LGBT rights, combined with its accessible residence and citizenship options, makes it a top destination for LGBT expats worldwide. Known for its warm and inclusive community, Malta offers LGBT individuals and families a safe, welcoming environment to call home. Through programmes like the Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) or citizenship by investment, LGBT expats can enjoy long-term residency, high quality of life, security, and various benefits. As a beacon of inclusivity and progressiveness in Europe, Malta invites LGBT individuals to experience all it has to offer.
