Malta only grants citizenship by naturalisation for exceptional services by direct investment. Those who hold a residence permit can apply for naturalisation or use an investment route.
Malta provides attractive residency options for high-net-worth individuals, offering visa-free travel and a stable European base.
Julia Loko, Investment Programs Expert at Immigrant Invest, explains Maltese citizenship for exceptional services by direct investment and how to apply for it.
Two ways to get Maltese citizenship through residence
Naturalisation through long-term residence. Individuals who have legally resided in Malta for at least five years can apply for citizenship. They must demonstrate economic self-sufficiency, a clean criminal record, and integration into Maltese society. Knowledge of the Maltese language is not mandatory but is considered an advantage.
Naturalisation for exceptional services by direct investment. Investors who hold a Maltese residence permit can apply for citizenship after one or three years, depending on the sum of investment. This route involves a contribution to the National Development Fund, a property investment, and a donation to a local NGO.
8 benefits of Malta citizenship
Visa-free travel: A Maltese passport grants access to over 180 countries, including the EU, UK, and Schengen Zone, providing seamless travel for business and leisure.
EU residency rights: As a Maltese citizen, you have the right to live, work, and study in Malta.
Business opportunities: Malta’s favourable tax system, along with access to European markets, makes it an ideal location for business owners and entrepreneurs.
Family inclusion: Citizenship can extend to spouses, children, and dependent parents, ensuring the whole family enjoys the benefits.
Political stability: Malta is known for its secure environment, with a robust legal system and strong political institutions.
High-quality healthcare: As a Maltese citizen, you will have access to both public and private healthcare systems, ensuring excellent medical care.
Education opportunities: Malta offers free education, and EU citizens enjoy access to a range of high-ranking universities across Europe.
Dual citizenship allowed: Malta does not require renouncing existing citizenships, allowing you to maintain ties to your home country while benefiting from Maltese nationality.
Maltese Global Residence Programme
Non-EU individuals seeking residency with tax benefits can use the Malta global residence program. Applicants must:
rent a property for at least €9,600 per year, or buy one for €275,000;
pay an annual minimum tax of €15,000;
have valid health insurance;
demonstrate financial self-sufficiency.
The programme does not lead directly to citizenship but can be a step towards naturalisation.
Malta Permanent Residence Programme
This programme grants long-term residency with a pathway to citizenship. To apply for the Malta MPRP, applicants must meet several key requirements:
Rent real estate for at least €14,000 per annum or buy a property for at least €375,000.
Application administrative fee. Investors pay €15,000 as an initial payment and €35,000 at the final stage, regardless of whether they choose to buy or rent property.
Government contribution. Investors must make a one-time, non-refundable contribution of €30,000 to the government if purchasing property, or €60,000 if renting.
Donation to a non-governmental organisation. An additional donation of €2,000 is required to a local NGO. This donation contributes to social projects in Malta.
Proof of funds. Applicants need to demonstrate assets worth at least €500,000, with €150,000 in liquid financial assets. This ensures that applicants have sufficient financial stability to support themselves and their families.
Holders can apply for citizenship after five years under the naturalisation route.
Additional requirements for naturalisation
Residency commitment. Applicants must show they have spent a significant amount of time in Malta and have developed genuine ties to the country.
Good moral character. Authorities assess whether applicants pose any security or reputational risk. A clean criminal record is essential.
Economic contribution. While some residency routes require an annual tax payment, citizenship applicants must also demonstrate continued economic self-sufficiency.
How to apply for Malta citizenship after residence permit
Choose the right residency programme. Decide between the Global Residence Programme, Permanent Residence Programme, or another legal residence option.
Meet the residency duration requirement. Stay in Malta for the required period—five years for standard naturalisation or one to three years for exceptional investment-based naturalisation.
Fulfil financial and legal obligations. Maintain property ownership or rental, meet tax requirements, and ensure no legal infractions.
Prepare and submit documents. Provide proof of residence, financial stability, and investment commitments. Include police clearance, birth certificates, and proof of ties to Malta.
Pass Due Diligence checks. The Maltese government conducts background checks to ensure applicants meet integrity standards.
Take the oath of allegiance. Successful applicants swear allegiance to Malta before receiving citizenship.
Alternative residency and citizenship routes
Citizenship by descent. Individuals with Maltese ancestry may be eligible for citizenship without needing to reside in Malta or make an investment.
Citizenship through marriage. A foreign spouse of a Maltese citizen may apply for citizenship after five years of marriage and cohabitation.
Conclusion
Malta offers two main paths to citizenship for residents. The standard naturalisation route requires five years of residence from residence permit to Malta citizenship, while the investment-based naturalisation route allows for a faster process. Additional factors such as economic contribution, residency commitment, and good moral character play a role in securing approval.
