Malta citizenship by merit

​Frequently asked questions

• What is Malta citizenship by merit?

  Malta citizenship by merit is a legal naturalisation route for individuals whose exceptional contributions in business, science, culture, sports, or philanthropy serve Malta’s national interests or Vision 2050 objectives.

  It is fully regulated under Maltese law, including the Citizenship Act Cap. 188, relevant amendments, and supporting Legal Notices.

• What are the benefits of Malta citizenship by merit?

  Malta citizenship by merit offers numerous advantages:

  • the opportunity to live, work, and study anywhere in Malta;
  • visa-free access to over 170+ countries, including the Schengen Area, the UK, Canada, Japan, and Hong Kong;
  • business opportunities: easily register companies in Malta, enhancing credibility and market reach;
  • access to Malta’s high-quality healthcare, education, and safe, Mediterranean lifestyle;
  • family inclusion: spouses, dependent children, and parents can also gain citizenship.
• Who is eligible for Malta citizenship by merit?

  Entrepreneurs, innovators, top academics, athletes, cultural figures, and philanthropists whose work serves Maltese national interests or supports Malta’s Vision 2050 agenda.

  Applicants must demonstrate a genuine link to Malta:

  • holding legal residence in Malta, typically within 8 to 12 months;
  • owned or leased residential property in Malta;
  • basic knowledge of Maltese or English;
  • detailed proposal outlining the exceptional service they have rendered or will render.

  A spouse and financially dependent children and parents can be included in the application, enjoying the same citizenship and residency benefits.

• What are the required documents for Malta citizenship by Merit?

  To apply for Malta citizenship by merit, one need documents showing their eligibility, residency, and exceptional achievements, including proof of contributions, identity, and family details:

  • valid passport and proof of identity;
  • proof of legal residence in Malta: residency permit, rental or property documents;
  • evidence of exceptional contribution in business, innovation, science, culture, sports, or philanthropy;
  • personal CV or portfolio highlighting achievements;
  • proof of financial standing or ability to support yourself and your family;
  • criminal record certificate from all countries of residence;
  • health insurance proof covering yourself and family members;
  • language proficiency certificate: basic Maltese or English, for example, IELTS, TOEFL, or GCSE;
  • detailed application forms and any supporting letters or references.
• What is the Due Diligence process?

  The process is highly selective, discretionary, and includes multi-layered Due Diligence checks conducted by the Community Malta Agency and the Office of the Regulator for the Granting of Citizenship for Exceptional Services. This ensures that only qualified applicants are approved.

• Do I get residency before citizenship?

  Yes. As a first step, applicants receive Maltese residency, allowing them to live in Malta and travel visa-free across the Schengen Area while the citizenship application is processed.

• Are language or integration requirements needed?

  Yes. Applicants must demonstrate:

  • legal residence in Malta for about 8—12 months;
  • property ownership or lease in Malta;
  • basic knowledge of Maltese or English;
  • a detailed proposal outlining their exceptional contribution.
• Can my family also apply for Malta citizenship by merit?

  Yes. Spouses or partners, dependent children and parents can be included in the application, enjoying the same citizenship and residency benefits.

• What are the fees and outcome expectations for Malta citizenship by merit applicants?

  Typically, the costs for Malta citizenship by merit participants include:

  • fees for obtaining residency;
  • expenses on purchase or rent of real estate;
  • Due Diligence fees;
  • expenses on citizenship application;
  • additional payments for your family members;
  • service fees for legal support.

  In terms of outcomes, Malta citizenship by merit is a highly selective naturalisation pathway, and approval is discretionary. Each application is evaluated based on the applicant’s achievements, their alignment with Malta’s national interests, and the results of rigorous, multi-layered Due Diligence checks.

  All applicants initially obtain Maltese residency, which allows them to live in Malta and travel freely within the Schengen Area while their application is under review. Applicants who successfully meet all requirements are ultimately granted Maltese citizenship.