This article presents information about how to obtain citizenship in Malta. Our immigration specialists in Malta can explain the procedure and legally represent clients during the entire process of naturalization.
| Quick Facts | |
|---|---|
| Nationalities accepted (EU/Non-EU) | Both citizens of EU and non-EU countries are accepted |
Business investment option (YES/NO) | Yes |
Real estate investment option (YES/NO) | Yes |
| Other investment options (if available) | – national development fund, – donations |
| Living requirement in Malta (YES/NO) | Yes |
| Residence or direct citizenship option | – Malta Permanent Residency Programme, – Malta Citizenship by Naturalisation for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment |
| Direct immigration with family members (YES/NO) | Yes |
| Family members allowed to join the program | – parents, – children, – grandparents |
| Residence visa/citizenship processing time (approx.) | Between 3 to 7 months |
| Additional financial requirements for family members (YES/NO) | Yes |
| Timeframe for obtaining citizenship/residency by investment | No more than 12 months |
| Dual citizenship permitted (YES/NO) | Yes |
| Reasons to choose Malta | – great taxation system, – varied business opportunities, – connection to large financial centers |
| Personal income tax rate | 35% |
| Visa free travel to other countries (approx. number of countries) | 46 |
Table of Contents
What are the main paths for getting citizenship in Malta?
- Naturalization,
- Marriage,
- Direct investment,
- Descent.
What is the legislation for citizenship in Malta?
Maltese Citizenship Act.
What are the formalities for getting citizenship by naturalization in Malta?
- Residency – At least 5 years,
- Minimum age requirements – 18,
- Language requirements – English or Maltese,
- Application – With the Community Malta Agency, which requires presenting a written reason for the application.
- Sponsors – A person who knows the applicant and can guarantee for him/her.
What documents are solicited for getting Maltese citizenship by naturalization?
- Birth certificate,
- Valid passport,
- Residence/work permit,
- Proof of domicile in Malta,
- Health insurance,
- Bank statements,
- Application form,
- Clear criminal record.
IMPORTANT! The immigration authorities in Malta reserve the right to make some background checks before any approvals. Citizenship in Malta is guaranteed at the discretion of the relevant ministries.
We also prepared an infographic with information on this topic:
What are the conditions for obtaining citizenship in Malta by marriage?
- must have been married and lived together for at least 5 years with a Maltese citizen before application,
- marriage must be registered in Malta,
- applicants must demonstrate good character and pose no public risk,
- joint affidavit, marriage & birth certificates, IDs/passports are required.
IMPORTANT! It takes around 6-12 months to get citizenship by marriage in Malta. Civil unions and same-sex marriage are recognized in Malta, and it is possible to apply for Maltese citizenship.
What are the conditions to get citizenship in Malta by investment?
- EUR 750,000 as a governmental contribution to get citizenship after 1 year of residency in Malta,
- EUR 600,000 as a governmental contribution to obtain Maltese citizenship after 3 years of residency,
- EUR 700,000 for property purchase and ownership for at least 5 years to enter the citizenship program in Malta.
- making a charitable donation in Malta to an NGO of at least EUR 10,000,
- must have lived in Malta for at least 8 months with residency.
- various administrative fees apply.
NOTE! Applicants can also rent properties in Malta for at least EUR 16,000/year to access “Citizenship for Exceptional Services by direct Investment”. Each application for family members costs EUR 50,000.
What are the key considerations about Malta Citizenship by Merit?
Malta Citizenship by Merit is the same as Malta Citizenship for Exceptional Contributions. Directing the minimum investment required to fields like science, entrepreneurship, IT, innovation, arts, or sports, and that brings exceptional value, is important. The Maltese authorities also grant this status to exceptional talents or experts who bring value and are of significant national interest.
How do I apply for citizenship by descent in Malta in 2026?
- proving Maltese descendants or direct ancestor: grandparents, great-grandparents, etc.,
- presenting birth & marriage certificates, and other supporting documents,
- completing form D from the Community Malta Agency.
Is direct citizenship by descent in Malta offered?
Yes, if you were born between September 21, 1964, and July 31, 1989, in Malta or abroad. Or if you were born on or after August 1, 1989 (whether in Malta or abroad) with at least one Maltese parent.
Explore this video presentation with details about Maltese citizenship:
Is citizenship by birth granted in Malta?
Yes.
What is the cost for Maltese citizenship by descent?
Around EUR 150 is the main application fee.
Is dual citizenship allowed in Malta?
Yes, Malta recognizes dual citizenship. You don’t need to renounce your current nationality to get the Maltese citizenship.
What are the benefits of Maltese citizenship?
- freedom of movement throughout the entire European Union,
- visa-free access to all 27 Schengen Area countries,
- visa-free entry to around 147 countries worldwide,
- various economic opportunities for foreign businessmen,
- great tax system,
- high quality of life,
- great healthcare and education systems, etc.
Ready to apply for citizenship in Maltain 2026? Explore the immigration services we offer in Malta by contacting our specialists today!