Malta

Malta Citizenship by Naturalisation on the Basis of Merit

Discretionary Citizenship for Exceptional Contribution

Malta may grant citizenship to individuals who have made, or are expected to make, an exceptional contribution to Malta or humanity.

This is not citizenship by investment; no payment or property purchase guarantees approval.

About Malta

Malta is an English-speaking Mediterranean country and a member of the European Union, euro area and Schengen Area.

Its economy includes financial services, technology, tourism, maritime services and international commerce.

Basis for Consideration

Relevant fields include:

• Science, research and technology
• Entrepreneurship and job creation
• Culture, arts, sport and philanthropy

Financial wealth or investment alone does not establish eligibility.

Initial Proposal

The proposal to Community Malta Agency must address:

• Background, achievements and contribution
• Proposed contribution and future commitments
• Malta’s national interest and proposed family members

The proposal must include supporting evidence.

Independent Evaluation and Government Discretion

An independent board evaluates the proposal.

Community Malta Agency conducts due diligence; the Minister makes the final discretionary decision.

Residence, Property and Connection to Malta

Following approval in principle, the applicant must generally demonstrate:

• Eight months’ residence and adequate Maltese property
• Maltese or English knowledge and genuine ties
• Progress on the contribution and competent-body endorsement

Family Eligibility

Eligible dependants may be included under applicable law, with documentation, due-diligence, security and admissibility checks.

Comprehensive Due Diligence

The review may include:

• Identity, criminal and security checks
• Professional and reputational verification
• Source-of-wealth and source-of-funds reviews
• Review of activities and Maltese commitments

   

Processing Times

No processing time is guaranteed; timing depends on complexity, due diligence, independent assessment, residence and the Minister’s decision.

Outcome of an Approved Application

Following final approval:

• The applicant and approved dependants take the Oath of Allegiance
• A certificate of naturalisation is issued and the approved applicants become Maltese citizens

Citizenship may be revoked if a material obligation or commitment is not fulfilled.

Benefits of Maltese Citizenship

• Maltese and European Union citizenship
• Malta residence and applicable EU mobility rights
• Potential inclusion of eligible dependants
• Eligibility to apply for a Maltese passport

Citizenship remains discretionary and cannot be obtained through a predetermined investment.

Path to Maltese Citizenship

This is a direct but discretionary citizenship route, not a residence-to-citizenship programme.

Successful applicants become Maltese citizens after final approval, the Oath of Allegiance and issuance of a certificate of naturalisation.