Introduction

Portugal’s Golden Visa and Malta’s Permanent Residency Program (MPRP) are two of the most well-liked choices for investors and high-net-worth persons seeking to get European residency. Both provide a route to citizenship, entry to the Schengen Area, and residency in the European Union. Every program, however, has unique requirements, fees, and benefits. 

In this article, we will explore why both Malta or Portugal Golden Visa could be the one investment that changes your life.

Malta Residency by Investment

Malta’s residency-by-investment program provides a permanent residence status with no minimum stay required. It permits investors to live in Malta and travel around the Schengen Area without restriction.

• A minimum of €220,000 in real estate or a mix of fees and government payments must be invested.
• 5–6 months for processing
• Validity of Residency: Permanent Path to Citizenship: Possible after seven years of real residency, but not directly related
• Physical Presence No minimum stay is necessary.

Travel Benefits and Residency Plan

• For Malta, The investors have the access to Permanent Residency from day one.
• Traveling throughout the Schengen Zone without a visa
• No need for a physical stay

Pathway to Citizenship 

Maltese citizenship is not a direct result of the Permanent Residency Program (MPRP). Nonetheless, after seven years of real residency, investors are eligible to petition for naturalization.

Tax Benefits 

• Non-domiciled residents are exempt from worldwide income tax.
• Only income earned in Malta is subject to tax.
• No wealth or inheritance taxes

Portugal Golden Visa 

In exchange for an investment—historically in real estate, but currently mostly in investment funds, job development, or research—Portugal offers resident permits through the Golden Visa. It offers a route to Portuguese citizenship and permits visa-free travel throughout the Schengen Zone.

• A minimum of €500,000 in investment funds is required.
• Processing Time: more than 12 months
• Place of Residence Two-year validity period, renewable
• Citizenship Path: Five Years Later
• Physical Presence Needed: Just seven days a year

Travel Benefits and Residency

• Short-term (renewable every two years) residency
• Traveling throughout the Schengen Zone without a visa
• Only seven days must be spent there annually.

Pathway to Citizenship 

With just seven days of annual stay, passing a basic Portuguese language test, and other regular standards, investors can obtain Portugal’s Golden Visa, which provides a straight route to citizenship after five years without the necessity for full-time residency.

Tax Benefits 

• For ten years, non-habitual residents (NHR) are exempt from international taxes.
• Certain foreign income, such as pensions, may be subject to a flat 10% tax rate.
• No wealth tax or inheritance

Two Gateways to Citizenship – One European Dream

Portugal and Malta both have the most beautiful experiences and advantages to build a home away from home, supported by robust economies and friendly, safe communities. In the end, your choice is determined by your long-term objectives, level of investment tolerance, and if citizenship or permanent residency is more important to you.

Whichever route you go on, both programs provide something genuinely valuable: flexibility, freedom, and access to the most potent prospects in Europe.

Do you need assistance selecting the best program for your objectives?

Start your European adventure right now by contacting our knowledgeable advisors for a free consultation. TVG – Makes it Happen.