Direct Answer
Malta's first-time buyer scheme offers a reduced stamp duty rate of 3.5% (instead of 5%) on the first €200,000 of a property purchase, and a full stamp duty exemption on the first €200,000 for qualifying applicants in some schemes. Additional government grants and subsidies have been introduced periodically.
First-time buyers in Malta pay 3.5% stamp duty on the first €200,000 of their property purchase price (instead of the standard 5%), and 5% on any amount above €200,000. This applies to Maltese nationals and EU citizens purchasing their primary residence.
Periodic government schemes have offered full stamp duty exemption on purchases up to €200,000 for first-time buyers. Availability changes with budget cycles — check with a Malta notary for current status.
Various government grants have been available for first-time buyers purchasing properties in Urban Conservation Areas (UCAs) and Gozo. These are typically €15,000–€30,000 towards renovation costs. Availability and terms change annually.
Generally: you or your partner must not have previously owned property in Malta. The property must be for your primary residence. You must be a Maltese national or EU citizen with residence rights. Non-EU nationals may have limited access to first-time buyer schemes.
Malta has historically offered additional incentives for property purchases in Gozo to encourage population stability on the island. These grants have included both stamp duty reductions and direct purchase grants.
Yes — EU citizens who are purchasing their first property in Malta as their primary residence generally qualify for the same first-time buyer benefits as Maltese nationals.
If both partners are first-time buyers, the full reduced rate applies. If one has previously owned property, eligibility may be affected — consult a notary.
The first-time buyer schemes generally apply to residential properties, not bare land.
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