With the updated Schengen Visa Code that introduced new rules on the procedures of applying for a Schengen Visa, the process for getting a 5-year multiple-entry visa to the EU has never been easier and clearer.

Though in the past, the EU Visa Code enabled travellers to get multi-entry visas for travelling to the Schengen member countries more than once, the rules for getting one were not well and clearly defined.

Now, the updated Visa Code that came into force on February 2, and applies to the embassies, consulates, and visa centres of all 26 Schengen members states abroad, introduces certain rules that visa applicants must meet in order to be granted a Schengen Visa.

A multiple-entry Schengen visa permits its holder to go in and out of the Schengen Area as many times as he or she wants, as soon as they do not violate the 90/180 rule. This means they do not remain in the Schengen zone longer than 90 days, within 180 days.

The Schengen Visa code has among others been updated to specify new, well defines rules regarding who will benefit from the multiple-entry visas. Among others, the code states that multiple-entry visas will be granted with a validity of one, three and five years, depending on applicants’ visa and travel history.

“…multiple-entry visas with a long validity shall be issued for the following validity periods unless the validity of the visa would exceed that of the travel document:

(a) for a validity period of one year, provided that the applicant has obtained and lawfully used three visas within the previous two years;

(b) for a validity period of two years, provided that the applicant has obtained and lawfully used a previous multiple-entry visa valid for one year within the previous two years;

(c) for a validity period of five years, provided that the applicant has obtained and lawfully used a previous multiple-entry visa valid for two years within the previous three years,” the updated Visa Code explains.

Aside from the frequency of travel to the Schengen Area, to get a multiple entry visa, a traveller must meet a few other requirements, as follows:

The traveller must have a reason why he/she needs to enter the Schengen Area multiple times in the following year(s).
The traveller must have a clean visa history, which means he/she never overstayed the validity of a visa in the Schengen Area or worked illegally.
The traveller must have a clean criminal record back at home.
The traveller must present traveller’s insurance for their first trip to the Schengen Area under the multiple entry visa applied for.

Source — https://www.schengenvisainfo.com/

With uncertainties across the global economy, the world’s wealthier citizens are diversifying their investments offshore to spread their exposure and risk. The Mediterranean island of Malta has become an attractive destination for tax-free investments, especially for South Africans in the current economic climate, says Malta resident and investment advisor, Merle Whale, who is currently visiting South Africa to host investment and relocation seminars.

“Malta is a very attractive destination for investment and retirement. There is no death tax in Malta and Malta residents are afforded protection from double taxation within a network of taxation treaties,” Whale explains.

Whale is South African but has lived in Malta for 10 years, sharing her residency experience and advice with other South Africans considering retirement, relocation or investment in the island nation.

“Non-citizens living in Malta are taxed only on their Maltese source of income and capital gains, and not on their total global income. Foreign source capital gains are not taxed even if remitted to Malta.”

Malta has positioned itself to take advantage of the global retirement market, as well as the investment market wanting to diversify assets. There are a variety of residency programmes, from the Malta Retirement Programme; Ordinary, Long Term and Temporary Residence; a Global Residence Programme; and a Highly Qualified Persons Programme.

“The property market is also dynamic and non-residents who wish to invest a lump sum offshore, are advised to consider Malta, as there are lucrative opportunities in the buy/rental market,” says Whale.

“There are no council taxes, low rental taxation, and high demand for rental properties. Anyone can own a property in Malta, even without residency.”

A huge benefit, says Whale, is that English is widely spoken on the islands, and contracts are in English. “If you decide to purchase a property in Malta for an investment, there is no death tax, only a small death duty of 5% on immovable property; with buy to rent, there is only a 15% tax on that income in Malta; no council tax; insurance is low; and there is no charge for garbage removal or sewage, only water and electricity.”

Malta offers an enviable lifestyle with some of the best residency schemes and citizenship by investment programmes, in Europe – and without additional hidden costs,” Whale explains.

Malta also enjoys popularity as a top global destination to retire in, prioritising safety, health services and a competitive cost of living, with favourable residency/citizenship options.

“Because the island is so small, there are big drives for key business focuses around tourism, financial services, fund management and the aviation industry. iGaming is also big business in Malta; it’s also attractive for pharmaceuticals as it is easier for them to register product here within the EU, and Malta also boasts the largest registration of pleasure boats in the Mediterranean.

“I am seeing significant numbers of South Africans investing overseas and comfortably living off the money they invest offshore. Some are selling their homes in South Africa, investing in property elsewhere and living off the rental income, while renting another property locally.

“And with Brexit, Malta is giving all British citizens a 10-year Visa. No other country within the EU has done that.”

Investment Seminars
Seminars are being held on the following dates across SA to discuss the Malta investment options. BOOKING is essential:
JOHANNESBURG: 10 March 2020, 2.30pm & 6pm, Balalaika Hotel.
DURBAN: 12 March 2020, 2.30pm & 6pm, The Oyster Box.
CAPE TOWN: 16 March 2020, 2.30pm & 6pm; Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel.

Limited pre-booked one-on-one consultations are available after each session

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The smallest EU state in size, yet one of the largest in terms of personality and heart, Malta is a veritable paradise to those in search of a beautiful climate, friendly locals and a thriving economy. Chances are that if you’re reading this article, you’re one of the many who have decided on settling in Malta and making our sunny shores your home! As with any other move to another country, it’s good to familiarise yourself with certain issues beforehand; the team at Frank Salt Real Estate shares some tips on surviving your first month in Malta.

1. Summer Sweatin’, Happens So Fast…
(Apologies to any Grease fans out there).
Maltese summers are not to be underestimated! If you’re planning to move some time between the end of June and the beginning of September, be prepared for high temperatures. The good news is that the islands (including Gozo and Comino) are full of beautiful beaches and fun seasonal events held in several localities. Bring plenty of sunblock and start preparing those Instagram hashtags from now!

2. We Drive On the Left. Yes, the Left
One of the biggest culture shocks for new expats when settling in Malta is getting used to driving on the left instead of the right. It’s not uncommon to see a bewildered foreigner blinking in confusion just before a zebra crossing! However, once you get used to it, the distances are relatively very short, and there’s a lot to see and do while on the road.

3. When in Doubt, Catch a Bus…
If you’re not feeling up to braving the roads during your first month in Malta, we recommend getting a Tallinja bus card – the easiest and cheapest way to use the local public transport.

4. … Or a Boat
The Maltese and Gozitans hop between islands by means of a regular and inexpensive ferry service, which only takes about 20 minutes to and fro. The smallest island, Comino, can also be reached the same way.

5. Get Carded
To simplify your daily life in Malta, apply for a residency I.D Card. You’ll need your passport, work contract, an employment certificate from Jobsplus and a tenancy agreement. After you have all your documents in order, head over to the ID offices in Valletta (and afterwards, explore the wonders of this historical capital city!)

6. Accommodation
Maltese real estate has plenty to offer expats, from property facing the stunning sea to apartments or houses in the middle of a quiet village. Generally, renters are expected to pay a deposit along with one or two months’ rent upfront before moving in.

Are You Thinking of Settling in Malta?
The team at Frank Salt Real Estate is here to help you get through your first month in Malta! Contact us today and we’ll put you in touch with one of our friendly and experienced property consultants. Let one of our estate agents find your perfect home while you attend to other important matters of moving.

Article Written By Frank Salt Real Estate

Are you looking for a safe, European Offshore Investment, Portfolio Diversification, Corporate Restructuring, Professional Development, Retirement, Residency or Citizenship, Plan B or a Nest Egg?

Find out first-hand how you can benefit from Malta’s offerings. Meet my esteemed Maltese Associates ~ Leading Real Estate, Financial and Legal professionals.

FREE SEMINARS in Johannesburg on the 10th, Durban on the 12th and Cape Town 16th March.
Attend either at 14h30 or 18h00. The format is a 45-minute presentation.

ONE-TO-ONE CONSULTATION: Seminars are followed by an optional private pre-booked one-to-one session with a consultant to discuss property investment or residency.

BOOKING ESSENTIAL- Previous events were fully subscribed. First-come-first-served. No attendance fee. Right of admission reserved. Refreshments will be served.

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