Press Statement by Identità, the Notarial Council, the Chamber of Advocates, and Legal Procurators

Tuesday, 17th September 2024

AGREEMENT REACHED WITH VARIOUS STAKEHOLDERS REGARDING THE ATTESTATION OF LEASE CONTRACTS

Wide consultation leads to an agreement on the completion of the form

Following a series of consultations, an agreement has been reached regarding the Property Lease Agreement Attestation Form between Identità, the Notarial Council of Malta, the Chamber of Advocates, and Legal Procurators.

This agreement was reached after discussions on how property lease agreements, presented as part of a residence permit application, should be officially attested by a Notary, Lawyer, or Legal Procurator. The purpose of this verification is to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information provided to the Agency and legal certainty in order to prevent abuse.

Every new lease agreement will be attested by the aforementioned professionals, with the aim of further strengthening the process for both Identità and for tenants and landlords. This will promote greater responsibility from both property owners and tenants and ensure adherence to the law while preventing false declarations. This form will become mandatory as of Monday, 23rd September 2024 for applications involving new leases, giving the parties involved sufficient time to comply with the requirements.

Identità will continue to maintain a zero-tolerance policy on abuses, and any case of abuse will be reported to the relevant authorities. Identity Malta remains committed to safeguarding the interests of both tenants and property owners, while continuing to enhance its processes to reduce abuse, promote transparency, and ensure good governance.