Maltese Citizenship by Naturalization
The Malta Citizenship by Naturalisation for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment process allows foreign individuals and their families to acquire Maltese citizenship through significant economic contributions. This process is available after meeting a residence requirement of 36 months, or 12 months in exceptional cases. All applications are subjected to a thorough due diligence process, which includes extensive background checks, managed by the Community Malta Agency.
Advantages of Maltese Citizenship
- Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to around 190 destinations.
- Access to a reputable and transparent financial center, and a leading jurisdiction for international business.
- Ability to include spouse, children, parents, and grandparents in the main application.
- Adherence to the world’s strictest due diligence standards for vetting applicants.
- Malta is an attractive location for living or owning a second home, with excellent air links and strategic geographic location.
Requirements for Maltese Citizenship by Naturalization
To qualify for Maltese citizenship through this program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Age Requirement: Minimum 18 years old.
- Economic Contribution: A contribution of at least EUR 600,000 for a minimum residence period of 36 months, or EUR 750,000 for a minimum residence period of 12 months.
- Property Requirement: Purchase a residential property in Malta with a value of at least EUR 700,000, to be held for five years; or lease a residential property with a rental value of at least EUR 16,000 per annum, to be held for five years. It is restricted to sublet the property during this period.
- Donation: A donation of at least EUR 10,000 to a registered sport, cultural, scientific, philanthropic, animal welfare, or artistic NGO approved by the Community Malta Agency.
- Residency: Legal residence in Malta for at least 36 months (or 12 months in exceptional cases), including a valid residence card during this period.
Procedures and Time Frame
- Application Submission: Applications must be submitted on prescribed forms with appropriate fees and supporting documents. Detailed due diligence checks are performed.
- Due Diligence: The Community Malta Agency conducts four-tier due diligence. Applications with false information or omissions will be rejected.
- Residence Permit: Upon passing Tier 1 due diligence, a residence permit application is submitted. Following this, an eligibility application is processed, including further due diligence checks (Tiers 2, 3, and 4) before presentation to the Maltese Minister.
- Citizenship Application: After 36 months of residence (or 12 months in exceptional cases), and fulfilling all investment, donation, and property requirements, a citizenship application is submitted. If approved, the applicant takes the oath of allegiance in Malta and receives a certificate of naturalization.
- Monitoring: The Community Malta Agency conducts continuous monitoring for five years.
Dual Citizenship
Malta permits dual citizenship without restrictions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Malta Citizenship by Naturalisation?
The Malta Citizenship by Naturalisation for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment allows individuals and their families to acquire Maltese citizenship through substantial economic contributions.
What types of investment options available for Malta Citizenship by Naturalisation?
Investment options include:
- A financial contribution of at least EUR 600,000 (EUR 750,000 for a 12-month residence).
- Purchase or lease of residential property located in Malta.
A donation of at least EUR 10,000 to an approved non-governmental organization.
What are the advantages of acquiring Maltese citizenship through investment?
Benefits include:
- The right to live, work, and pursuing study in any EU country.
- Visa-free entry to 180+ countries.
Access to a high standard of healthcare system and modern education.
What is the investment requirement for the Malta Citizenship by Naturalisation?
The minimum investment starts at EUR 600,000 for a 36-month residence period, or EUR 750,000 for a 12-month residence period. Additional contributions are required for family members.
How long does the application process take?
The processing time is approximately 12 to 38 months, depending on the specifics of the application.
Is it possible to include family members in the application?
Yes, that’s correct. Under the Malta Citizenship by Naturalisation Program, the main applicant can include:
- Spouse: The applicant’s partner.
- Dependent Children: Children who are financially dependent on the main applicant and are in full-time education.
Dependent Parents: Parents who are financially dependent on the main applicant.
What are the residency requirements?
Applicants, along with all adult dependents (if any), need to maintain Maltese residence for minimum 36 months (or 12 months in exceptional cases) before applying for citizenship.
What are the residency requirements?
Applicants, along with all adult dependents (if any), need to maintain Maltese residence for minimum 36 months (or 12 months in exceptional cases) before applying for citizenship.
What documents are required for a Malta Citizenship by Naturalisation application?
Required documents include:
- A valid passport.
- Proof of investment.
- Health insurance.
- A clean criminal record.
Other supporting documents as specified by the Community Malta Agency.
What is the process for applying for Malta Citizenship by Naturalisation?
The process involves:
- Submitting the required forms, fees, and documents.
- Undergoing thorough due diligence checks.
- Getting a residence permit.
- Passing further eligibility checks for citizenship.
- Fulfilling investment, donation, and property requirements.
- Taking an oath of allegiance and receiving a naturalization certificate.
Continuous monitoring by the Community Malta Agency for five years.