Malta announces sweeping new visa regulations aimed at curbing rising overstays and attracting high-net-worth investors under a revised residency program.
The government of Malta has confirmed a major overhaul of its immigration policies, effective immediately. The changes, enacted through an official ministry directive, tighten rules for short-term visitors while expanding avenues for wealthy foreign nationals seeking long-term residency. Officials reported that the new policy targets a documented 25% increase in tourist visa overstays over the past year. Under the revised scheme, applicants for the Malta Permanent Residence Programme must now demonstrate a minimum capital of 500,000 euros, a 20% increase from previous thresholds. Immigration Minister Byron Camilleri stated in a Monday press conference that the measures are designed to balance economic growth with national security. The announcement sparked immediate debate among business groups and expatriate communities, with hotel associations calling for implementation delays through the peak summer season. The policy shift positions Malta as a more selective European hub for investment migration, amid growing scrutiny of golden visa programs across the European Union.