Finishing
Government Housing Grants in Malta: What Buyers and Renovators Need to Know.
Buying, building, or renovating a home in Malta comes with a significant financial commitment — but the government offers a wide range of grants and support schemes that can help ease the burden. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, restoring a house of character, investing in energy-efficient upgrades, or simply finishing your home, there are incentives that can reduce upfront costs or refund part of your expenses.
In this article, we break down the main housing grants available in Malta as of 2025, including eligibility, benefits, and key conditions to look out for.
1. First-Time Buyer Grant (Acquisition Aid)
Eligible first-time buyers can now access a €15,000 grant when purchasing their first home in Malta, or up to €40,000 if the property is located in Gozo. This applies to purchases made between 1 January 2025 and 31 December 2026.
The property must be your first immovable property and your sole residence. It must also fall within one of the qualifying categories: located in a UCA (Urban Conservation Area), built more than 20 years ago and vacant for at least 7 years, or be a new property built in line with specific heritage design guidelines.
The grant is issued proportionally based on your ownership share. If you later divide the property into more than one residential unit, you may be required to refund the grant in full.
2. First Residence Finishing Grant
This grant supports individuals or couples finishing or upgrading their first home. You can claim up to €5,824 in fiscal receipts for eligible works. If the property was built before 1990, an additional €1,165 is available.
The grant is typically paid in two stages — after shell works and after completion — and applies to both new constructions and homes requiring rehabilitation or extension due to growing families.
3. Restoration and Finishing Grant (Heritage Properties)
If you own a property in a UCA, or one that is more than 20 years old and has been vacant for 7 years or more, you may be eligible for a restoration and finishing grant covering up to 18% of your expenses, capped at €54,000.
The grant applies to properties acquired after October 2021 and includes costs related to materials, labour, professional fees, and planning permits. You must maintain the property as a single unit; dividing it later could trigger a full repayment of the grant.
4. Buy Sustainable Property Scheme
This newer scheme encourages the purchase of energy-efficient homes. Properties that meet net zero energy standards may qualify for €9,000 over three years. Properties that exceed minimum energy performance by at least 20% can qualify for €4,500 over the same period.
To apply, you must submit the final deed and an as-built Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). The scheme is open between 19 May 2025 and 30 September 2025, or until funds are exhausted.
5. Additional Support Schemes
Several other initiatives offer support, including:
Irrinova Darek — Grants of up to €15,000 for structural renovations, finishes, and eligible renewable energy systems.
10% Deposit Scheme — Assistance for first-time buyers who qualify for a loan but cannot afford the deposit.
Equity Sharing Scheme — Enables partial ownership of a property, with the Housing Authority owning the remainder.
Adaptation Works Grant — Support for making older properties habitable, especially for low-income applicants or persons with disabilities.
Things to Keep in Mind
Most grants are time-limited or subject to budget caps — apply early.
Always verify eligibility criteria before committing to a purchase.
Keep all fiscal receipts and documentation, especially for restoration and energy efficiency claims.
Properties benefiting from major grants usually must remain your sole residence and may not be divided.
Need a Hand with Finishing or Restoration?
Whether you’ve just bought your first home, are applying for government grants, or need expert help with finishing, restoration, or full project management — SULAR is here to help.
From BOQs to site coordination and high-quality craftsmanship, we handle every detail with precision.
Let’s bring your project to life.