Introduction

Buying your first property in Malta is a significant milestone, but it can be financially challenging for many. To support first-time buyers, the Maltese government has introduced a €10,000 grant scheme. This article explains the key details of this initiative, including eligibility requirements, application procedures, and important deadlines.

What is the First-Time Buyer €10,000 Grant?

The scheme is part of the government’s broader strategy to support affordable housing in Malta and help more residents achieve the goal of homeownership. It builds on previous first-time buyer initiatives but offers a more substantial financial contribution than earlier programs.

To receive the grant, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria and follow the proper application process, which we’ll explore in the following sections.

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Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the €10,000 First-Time Buyer Grant, you must meet several specific criteria.

Primary Eligibility Conditions:

Requirement Type	Details
Age requirement	Must be at least 18 years old at the time of application
First-time buyer status	Must not own or have previously owned residential property in Malta or abroad
Property use	Property must be purchased for use as primary residence
Agreement date	Promise of sale agreement (konvenju) must be signed on or after January 1, 2025
Residence commitment	Must commit to living in the property as primary residence for at least 10 years
Minimum property value	Property must be purchased for a value of at least €100,000
Application timing	Grant application must be submitted within specific timeframes
Authority standing	All applicants must have a clean record with the Housing Authority

For couples or joint purchasers, all parties must qualify as first-time buyers.

If one party has previously owned property, the application will be rejected. The scheme applies to Maltese citizens, EU nationals, and third-country nationals who have long-term residency status in Malta.

Note that commercial properties, garages purchased separately from residential units, and agricultural land do not qualify under this scheme.

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Application Process and Timeline

Required Documentation:

• Completed application form (Form FTB-E10K)
• Copy of identity cards or passports of all applicants
• Copy of the promise of sale agreement (konvenju)
• Copy of the final deed of purchase (when available)
• Declaration that the property will be used as the primary residence for at least 10 years
• Bank account details where the grant should be deposited

Submission Process:

1. Download the application form from the Housing Authority website
   • You can find more information through the link here
2. Complete all required sections of the form
3. Gather all necessary supporting documentation
4. Submit your application to the Housing Authority either:
   • In person at their offices in Floriana
   • By post to the designated address
   • Through the online portal (if available)

The Housing Authority typically processes applications within 4-6 weeks. Applicants will receive notification of approval or rejection by post or email. If approved, the €10,000 grant will be directly transferred to the bank account specified in the application.

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Important Conditions and Restrictions

Understanding the conditions attached to the €10,000 First-Time Buyer Grant is essential to avoid complications or potential repayment obligations:

Residence Requirement:

• You must use the purchased property as your primary residence for at least 10 consecutive years
• Failure to maintain this residence commitment may trigger a requirement to repay the grant in full or in part

Property Restrictions:

• The grant applies only to residential properties intended for primary residence
• Investment properties, holiday homes, or commercial properties are not eligible
• The property must have a minimum purchase value of €100,000

Ownership Limitations:

• All applicants must be genuine first-time buyers with no current or previous property ownership
• The grant is available only once per person/couple
• If multiple individuals are purchasing together, all must qualify as first-time buyers

Compliance Monitoring:

• The Housing Authority reserves the right to verify continued compliance with residence requirements
• Periodic checks may be conducted throughout the 10-year commitment period
• Documentation proving residence may be requested at any time

Transfer Restrictions:

• Selling or transferring the property within the 10-year period typically requires repayment of the grant
• Exceptions may apply in cases of force majeure or special circumstances, subject to Housing Authority approval

These conditions ensure the grant serves its intended purpose of supporting genuine first-time homebuyers rather than property investors or those seeking to exploit the scheme.

Before applying, carefully review all requirements and consider consulting with a professional at the Housing Authority to ensure you meet all criteria.

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This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal, tax, or financial advice. Always consult a licensed professional in Malta for your specific situation.