Would you like to know information about the Maltese Citizenship by Merit Program? You may explore this article and see what conditions are imposed. You can also benefit from our online services and collaborate from the start with our immigration lawyers in Malta.
| Quick Facts | |
|---|---|
| What is Malta Citizenship by Merit? | A new program that replaced the previous Citizenship in Malta scheme. |
| Dedicated to | EU, non-EU & Swiss citizens |
| Benefits | Obtaining residency and citizenship, under certain conditions |
| Purpose of the program | To attract foreign investments in Malta by making significant contributions, in exchange for great advantages. |
| Eligibility criteria | Persons who can provide exceptional services & valuable initiatives to Malta. |
| Minimum age to participate | 18 |
| Residency obligation | At least 8 months living in Malta |
| Establishing foundations to access Maltese Citizenship by Merit | Available option |
| Supporting Malta’s national investment schemes and objectives | In exchange for Maltese residency, once accepted in the program. |
| Minimum investments | Not imposed |
| Path to Citizenship by Merit in Malta | through naturalization and proving residency of 12-36 months in Malta. |
| Due diligence | Performed by Community Malta Agency |
| Dual citizenship in Malta | Permitted. A second passport is issued. |
| Malta citizenship by Merit for exceptional services | Available option |
| We offer legal advice in Malta | For foreigners interested in Maltese Citizenship by Merit. Contact our immigration lawyers in Malta to be assisted throughout the process. |
Table of Contents
What is Malta Citizenship by Merit?
A new citizenship program that replaced the previous scheme, Citizenship by Investment (CBI). EU, non-EU, and Swiss citizens can access this program.
What is the legislation for citizenship in Malta?
Citizenship Act, Chapter 188.
Who regulates/oversees Citizenship by Merit applications in Malta?
The Office of the Regulator for granting Citizenship by Naturalization through Exceptional Merit in Malta.
What is the purpose of Maltese Citizenship by Merit?
To get citizenship in Malta in exchange for various types of foreign investments.
Please explore the following infographic:
What are the eligibility criteria to access the citizenship scheme?
- immigration authorities will analyze each application and accept only initiatives and exceptional services that bring value to Malta and particularly align with Malta’s Vision 2050,
- humanitarian services of recognized value in Malta are also a good option to access the scheme.
- applicants who establish innovation hubs or companies that help the national goals of Malta can also obtain Citizenship by Merit,
- cash contributions or real estate purchases are not mandatory to access the citizenship program.
What is the minimum age requirement?
18.
Are there minimum investments imposed?
No,
Is there a residency obligation to access the program?
Yes, applicants must live at least 8 months in Malta before becoming qualified for naturalization.
IMPORTANT: Foreign citizens must have legal residency for at least 12-36 months to start the naturalization process in Malta.
Are there any language requirements to access the Citizenship by Merit Program in Malta?
Yes, applicants must prove they have knowledge of English or Maltese.
Can foundations/charities be established in Malta to access this citizenship scheme?
Yes.
Who else can access the Citizenship by Merit Program?
Foreigners involved in environmental projects in Malta may also be eligible for citizenship if they bring merit and value to the country.
Is due diligence imposed?
The integrity standards are also important in getting Maltese Citizenship by Merit. Due diligence is performed to further projects after naturalization by the Community Malta Agency.
Can family members be part of the program?
Through Maltese citizenship by naturalization for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment, foreigners can get citizenship and the certificate of naturalization, including for family members.
Does Malta accept dual citizenship?
Yes, there are no restrictions regarding dual citizenship in Malta, and those who obtain this status are not obliged to renounce their citizenship of origin.
What are the key benefits of immigration to Malta?
- in terms of taxes, Malta offers numerous benefits. Foreigners who relocate to Malta are attracted by tax advantages for businesses and personal assets.
- Malta is part of the Schengen Area, which means that it offers visa-free travel throughout 26 countries in Europe. This is advantageous not only for tourism but also for the business environment.
Maltese Citizenship by Merit is an accessible program for anyone, but we recommend that you seek professional help. Please feel free to contact our immigration law firm and discover more about citizenship in Malta, naturalization, and dedicated programs.