Malta First-Time Buyer Scheme
Malta’s First-Time Buyer Scheme provides financial assistance to eligible individuals purchasing their first home. Through the scheme, beneficiaries receive a grant of €10,000, paid in annual instalments of €1,000 over ten years, helping to offset some of the costs associated with homeownership.
The scheme applies to eligible buyers who acquired their first residential property after 1 January 2022.
In September 2026, the Housing Authority announced three important changes designed to extend the scheme to a wider range of individuals and families. These include increased assistance for persons with disabilities, eligibility for certain properties acquired through donation, and support for qualifying buyers purchasing a second property as their sole and primary residence.
What Changed in 2026?
Increased Assistance for Persons with Disabilities
Eligible applicants holding a valid EU Disability Card issued by Aġenzija Sapport may now receive financial assistance of €20,000.
The increased grant applies to qualifying applicants who purchase their first residential property after 1 January 2026. The assistance is paid over a period of ten years.
Properties Acquired Through Donation
The scheme is also being extended to cover certain cases in which a residential property was acquired through donation after 2022 and a home loan was subsequently taken out to construct or complete the property.
Eligible applicants in this category may receive €1,000 annually for ten years, subject to the Housing Authority’s applicable terms and conditions.
Extension to Certain Second-Time Buyers
The updated scheme also recognises that a person’s housing circumstances may change over time.
It may now apply to buyers who previously owned a residential property but no longer own any other property, apart from the home purchased after 1 January 2026 as their sole and primary residence.
This amendment is particularly relevant to individuals whose circumstances have changed, including separated persons purchasing another property to use as their primary home.
Eligibility for the First-Time Buyer Scheme
Eligibility depends on the applicant’s circumstances and the date and method through which the property was acquired. Under the updated scheme:
- Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
- First-time buyers must have acquired their first residential property after 1 January 2022.
- The standard grant amounts to €10,000, paid as €1,000 annually over ten years.
- Applicants with a valid EU Disability Card issued by Aġenzija Sapport may qualify for €20,000 when purchasing their first residential property after 1 January 2026.
- Certain applicants who acquired a property through donation after 2022 and subsequently took out a loan for its construction or completion may also qualify.
- A person who previously owned a residential property may qualify if they currently own no other property apart from the residence purchased after 1 January 2026 as their sole and primary home.
Applications are assessed by the Housing Authority, and additional documentation and conditions may apply depending on the applicant’s individual circumstances.
Other Incentives Available to Property Buyers
The €10,000 First-Time Buyer Grant is separate from other incentives that may be available when purchasing property in Malta, including stamp-duty concessions and schemes concerning qualifying properties in Urban Conservation Areas, vacant properties or properties developed in a traditional Maltese style.
Each incentive has its own eligibility requirements and application procedure. Buyers should therefore seek guidance from the relevant authority or their notary before relying on a particular exemption or grant.
Common Mistakes Made by First-Time Buyers in Malta
Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but careful financial and practical planning remains essential. Here are five common mistakes to avoid when purchasing your first property in Malta.
Miscalculating the Budget
Aside from the purchase price, buyers must account for additional expenses such as notarial fees, professional fees, utility connections, insurance, finishing costs and applicable taxes. Factoring these costs into your budget from the outset can help prevent unexpected financial pressure.
Rushing the Process
A property purchase involves several legal and administrative procedures. Take the time to review the Promise of Sale agreement, financing conditions, property searches and all supporting documentation before proceeding.
Having Unrealistic Expectations
Your first property may not meet every preference on your list. Establish your priorities and remain flexible regarding location, size or property type while ensuring that the purchase remains comfortably within your financial means.
Buying Impulsively
Before committing to a property, consider its location, condition, layout, ongoing costs and potential long-term value. A property should meet both your immediate requirements and your foreseeable future needs.
Not Working with Experienced Professionals
A trusted property consultant, notary and financial adviser can help you understand the buying process, identify potential issues and make a more informed decision.
Finding Your First Home in Malta
When looking for property for sale in Malta, begin by defining your preferred property type, location, size and budget. Consider proximity to your workplace, schools, shops, public transport and other amenities relevant to your lifestyle.
The team at Arcus Estates can help you identify suitable properties and guide you through the different stages of your search and purchase.
The Property-Buying Process in Malta
Promise of Sale Agreement
Once a property has been selected and the main terms have been agreed, the buyer and seller generally enter into a Promise of Sale agreement, commonly known as a konvenju.
A notary is appointed to conduct the necessary searches and verify the property’s legal title. The agreement will normally specify the deposit, financing conditions, applicable permits and the period within which the final deed must be completed.
Where an Acquisition of Immovable Property permit is required, the relevant application must also be submitted. Different requirements may apply to EU and non-EU nationals, while property situated within a Special Designated Area may generally be acquired without an AIP permit.
Final Deed of Sale
Once the necessary searches, financing arrangements and contractual conditions have been completed, the parties meet before the notary to sign the final deed.
The outstanding purchase price, taxes and applicable fees are settled at this stage. The notary subsequently registers the transfer with the Public Registry.
Conclusion
The 2026 changes to Malta’s First-Time Buyer Scheme broaden the assistance available to reflect different personal and family circumstances.
Alongside the standard €10,000 grant, the revised framework provides increased support of €20,000 for qualifying persons with disabilities and extends eligibility to certain donated properties and second-time buyers whose new property will be their sole and primary residence.
Eligibility is assessed individually and remains subject to the Housing Authority’s official terms and conditions. Prospective applicants should verify their position directly with the Housing Authority before entering into a property purchase.
If you are searching for your first home, or purchasing a new primary residence following a change in circumstances, get in touch with us so we can guide you through the available properties and the purchasing process in Malta.