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our expertise in immigration

At Vaia Legal, we offer expert guidance and comprehensive support for clients seeking residency solutions in Malta. Dr. Katrina Abela (license number AKM-ABEL) is registered as an accredited and licensed agent with Aġenzija Komunità Malta as per the Agents (Licences) Regulations (S.L.188.05). Dr. Abela is authorized to assist clients throughout the entire residency application process, including the preparation, submission, and processing of applications under the relevant Maltese regulations.

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The Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) is a residency-by-investment initiative aimed at providing individuals and families with a long-term and secure base in Malta. This program allows applicants to obtain permanent residency by making a significant investment in property, coupled with financial contributions to the Maltese government. MPRP holders are granted unrestricted rights to live, work, and study in Malta, and benefit from visa-free travel within the Schengen Area.

Eligibility:

  • Applicants must meet minimum investment thresholds, which may include purchasing property in Malta, contributing to a national development fund, and fulfilling a residence requirement.

 

Benefits:

  • Right to live, work, and study in Malta.
  • Visa-free travel within the Schengen Area, offering access to over 25 European countries.
  • Long-term stability and security, are ideal for those seeking a permanent European base.
  • Future generations may benefit from the residency status.

 

Services Provided by Vaia Legal:

  • Vaia Legal will guide clients through each stage of the MPRP process, from identifying eligible investments to ensuring full compliance with Maltese immigration regulations and facilitating necessary applications.

The Digital Nomad Permit is a specialised visa for remote workers who wish to reside in Malta while working remotely for employers or clients located outside the European Union. This permit is an excellent opportunity for professionals, particularly those in tech, creative industries, and freelancing, who wish to take advantage of Malta’s high quality of life and favourable tax regime.

Eligibility:

  • Non-EU nationals who are employed or freelancing remotely for clients or employers based outside the EU.

Benefits:

  • The ability to live and work in Malta while maintaining employment or business activities abroad.
  • Access to Malta’s favourable tax regime and excellent quality of life, make it an attractive destination for remote workers.
  • A vibrant expat community and a rich cultural experience in the heart of the Mediterranean.

Services Provided by Vaia Legal:

  • Vaia Legal offers end-to-end support for the Digital Nomad Permit application process, including reviewing eligibility criteria, preparing documentation, and handling submissions to the relevant Maltese authorities.

At Vaia Legal, we are committed to helping you navigate the complexities of immigration law with professionalism and dedication. With Dr. Abela’s highly respected professional credentials and our firm’s extensive expertise in immigration law, Vaia Legal is uniquely positioned to provide you with comprehensive and tailored support throughout every step of your immigration journey in Malta. Whether you are seeking residency, citizenship, or permits, we prioritize understanding your individual needs and goals.

Our team is committed to offering clear, practical advice and efficient solutions, ensuring that your experience is as smooth and stress-free as possible. From the initial consultation to the final approval of your application, you can trust that our in-depth knowledge and dedication will be with you every step of the way, ensuring that your immigration process is handled with the utmost care and attention to detail.

Vaia Legal offers expert assistance in securing the Single Permit, a dual-purpose authorization for third-country nationals seeking to live and work in Malta for a period exceeding six months. This temporary permit, which can be renewed, integrates both an employment license and a residence permit. Under the Single Application Procedure for a Single Permit, as regards Residence and Work and a Common Set of Rights for Third-Country Workers legally residing in Malta Regulations (S.L. 217.17), applications can be submitted by applicants who are either outside the Schengen Area or already residing legally in Malta or another Schengen state.

Eligibility:

  • Third-country nationals who have secured a job offer in Malta or those who wish to move to Malta for employment purposes.

Duration:

  • Temporary, with the possibility of renewal based on employment status.

Services Provided by Vaia Legal:

  • Complete guidance through the application process, including securing necessary documents, liaising with the authorities, and ensuring compliance with all legal requirements.

The Family Reunification Application allows non-EU nationals legally residing in Malta to bring their immediate family members to join them. This process is essential for ensuring families can live together while maintaining national security and social cohesion.

Eligibility:

  • Non-EU nationals legally residing in Malta who wish to reunite with their close family members (spouse, dependent children, dependent parents, and dependent adult children with disabilities)
  • The sponsor must meet specific requirements, such as proving financial stability and having suitable accommodation for the family members.

 

Benefits:

  • The opportunity for families to live together in Malta, ensuring family unity.
  • Access to Malta’s high quality of life, healthcare, and education system.
  • Family members can reside in Malta for extended periods and eventually qualify for long-term residency.

 

Services Provided by Vaia Legal:

  • Vaia Legal offers comprehensive support for the Family Reunification Application process in Malta, including eligibility assessments, document preparation, submission to relevant authorities, ongoing support, and tailor-made assistance for unique cases to ensure a smooth and efficient reunification process.

The Global Residence Programme (GRP) offers non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss nationals the opportunity to obtain Maltese residency through a special tax status. Beneficiaries enjoy a flat 15% tax rate on foreign income remitted to Malta, with a minimum annual tax of €15,000.

To qualify, applicants must meet financial, property, and background requirements, and either purchase or lease a qualifying residence in Malta or Gozo.

At Vaia Legal, we are a licensed Authorised Registered Mandatary, providing full legal support throughout the GRP process—from eligibility checks and document preparation to application submission and post-approval compliance.

Interested in Maltese residency?
Contact Vaia Legal for expert guidance through the GRP.

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Yanika Ciantar-Barbara

Lawyer

Dr. Ciantar-Barbara is an experienced lawyer specialising in corporate and commercial law. She graduated with a Doctor of Laws degree from the University of Malta in 2012 and went on to obtain a Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Corporate and Commercial Law from Queen Mary, University of London in 2014.

With over a decade of experience at a leading Big Four firm, Dr Ciantar-Barbara has advised a wide range of local and international clients on complex company law matters. Her practice covers all stages of a company’s lifecycle, including formation, continuation, restructuring, cross-border mergers and divisions, acquisitions, and liquidations. She also assists clients with their day-to-day corporate governance and compliance obligations, including beneficial ownership requirements and statutory reporting.

In addition to her core focus on corporate law, Dr Ciantar-Barbara has handled various employment law matters, offering guidance on issues such as employment contracts and
workplace policies.

Proud member of the Chamber of Advocates and the Institute of Financial Services Practitioners.

Yanika Ciantar-Barbara

Legal Consultant

Dr. Ciantar-Barbara is an experienced lawyer specialising in corporate and commercial law. She graduated with a Doctor of Laws degree from the University of Malta in 2012 and went on to obtain a Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Corporate and Commercial Law from Queen Mary, University of London in 2014.

With over a decade of experience at a leading Big Four firm, Dr. Ciantar-Barbara has advised a wide range of local and international clients on complex company law matters. Her practice covers all stages of a company’s lifecycle, including formation, continuation, restructuring, cross-border mergers and divisions, acquisitions, and liquidations. She also assists clients with their day-to-day corporate governance and compliance obligations, including beneficial ownership requirements and statutory reporting.

In addition to her core focus on corporate law, Dr Ciantar-Barbara has handled various employment law matters, offering guidance on issues such as employment contracts and workplace policies.

Proud member of the Chamber of Advocates and the Institute of Financial Services Practitioners.

Valeriia Simutina

Valeriia Simutina

Office Administrator

As the Office Administrator at Vaia Legal, Valeriia ensures that the firm’s operations run smoothly and efficiently. She specializes in administrative coordination, office management, and business support, allowing the legal team to focus on delivering top-tier services to clients.

Holding a degree in Marketing from Kyiv University, she brings strong organizational and communication skills to her role. Since moving to Malta in 2022, she has been actively involved in office administration, supporting the firm with structured processes and strategic planning. Her ability to anticipate operational needs and implement effective solutions makes her an invaluable part of the Vaia Legal team.

Giovana Cauchioli

Legal Administrator

Giovana Cauchioli joined Vaia Legal as a Legal Administrator, bringing a strong background in legal operations and compliance. She graduated with a Bachelor of Law degree from Universidade Presbiteriana Mackenzie in 2019 and was admitted to the Brazilian bar in the same year. With several years of experience in litigation and general contracts, Giovana has developed a solid understanding of legal frameworks and regulatory processes.

Her professional experience covers various legal sectors, allowing her to provide valuable support in legal administration, contract management, and compliance-related matters. Throughout her career, she has refined her ability to assist in structuring efficient legal processes and ensuring that regulatory requirements are met.

At Vaia Legal, Giovana plays a key role in facilitating legal operations, ensuring that the firm’s work is carried out smoothly and efficiently. Her analytical approach, attention to detail, and commitment to excellence contribute to the firm’s ability to deliver high-quality legal services to its clients.

Dr. Katrina Abela

Founder

Seasoned Lawyer, specializing in Maritime and Aviation Law, having graduated from the University of Malta in 2013. Experienced in yacht and aircraft sale and purchase transactions as well as ownership structures, customs importations, and registration. Successfully assisted several companies in acquiring a Maltese Air Operator’s Certificate, as the key link between the applicant and local authorities, while also consulting on regulatory matters.


Specialties: Commercial Agreements, Sale and Purchase Transactions for Vessels and Aircrafts, Regulation of Aircraft Customs and VAT Status, Importation and Registration matters, AOC applications, Ownership structures and others



Proud member of the Chamber of Advocates, Malta Business Aviation Association, Malta Maritime Law Association and the Advocacy Committee of the European Business Aviation Association.