Do I need a Maltese notary to handle an inheritance, or can any lawyer do it?
- 29.06.2026
I’m not a Maltese citizen, but I’ve been named as an heir to inherit property located in Malta from a relative who lived there. I want to understand whether there are any restrictions on foreign nationals inheriting Maltese property, given that I know there are sometimes restrictions on foreigners buying property in Malta.
Generally, the restrictions that apply to foreign nationals purchasing property in Malta, which typically require specific permits (an AIP permit) for non-EU nationals or certain restrictions even for EU nationals purchasing property outside designated special zones, are specifically tied to acquisition through purchase rather than through inheritance, meaning inheriting Maltese property as an heir is generally treated differently and does not typically require the same acquisition permit that would apply if you were buying the same property on the open market. That said, while inheriting the property itself is generally permitted regardless of your nationality, there can still be specific considerations relevant to your situation as a foreign heir, including how the estate administration process applies to you, any tax or duty obligations, and potentially different considerations if you later wish to sell the inherited property, given that a subsequent sale to another foreign buyer, or your own future dealings with the property, could bring other Maltese property ownership rules back into play. Given both the cross-border nature of your situation and the specific nuances around foreign nationals and Maltese property, it would be worth consulting a Maltese lawyer or notary early in the inheritance process to confirm exactly how the relevant rules apply to your specific circumstances.
This website uses cookies to personalize content and advertising messages, collect analytics, and for other purposes. You can read our cookie policy. If you agree to the use of cookies, click "Accept".