Articles | More Americans Are Applying for Citizenship and Residency in Malta

Malta Permanent Residency or Citizenship for International Investors

Why More Americans Are Applying for Residency and Citizenship in Malta.

TLDR: Americans are increasingly choosing Malta for EU citizenship and residency due to its safety, English-speaking society, favorable tax laws, and EU mobility. In 2025, Malta’s residency and citizenship programs offer Americans structured, permanent routes into the EU.

In today’s unpredictable global landscape, more individuals - especially successful Americans - are seeking out second residency and citizenship options. It’s no longer a fringe trend. Instead, it’s becoming a smart, strategic decision for those who want to safeguard their lifestyle, diversify their global presence, and create long-term options for themselves and their families.

Malta, an English-speaking EU country, offers two exceptional options: the Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP) and the Malta Citizenship by Investment Program. Both programs are designed for individuals and families who value access, opportunity, and freedom.

Why are so many applicants choosing Malta?

   • Peace of Mind in Uncertain Times: The past few years have shown how quickly travel and mobility can be restricted. Holding a second residency or passport helps ensure you never lose access to Europe—even in times of crisis.

   • Quality of Life Benefits: From free, world-class healthcare and free education to a warm Mediterranean climate, Malta offers an exceptional standard of living. Residents and citizens enjoy safety, political stability, and access to all 27 EU countries.

   • A Plan B That Makes Sense: You insure your assets—why not insure your future? Dual citizenship or permanent residence is a modern form of insurance, offering you and your family more choices in an unpredictable world.

   • Growing Acceptance and Legitimacy: Applying for second citizenship is no longer considered extreme—it’s a normal step taken by successful professionals, investors, and retirees. The global mobility industry has matured, making it easier than ever to navigate the process.

   • Control Over Your Family’s Future: Whether you want your children to study in Europe without student debt, retire in a safer and more affordable country, or simply have more freedom of movement, Malta offers the legal framework and lifestyle benefits to make that possible.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Why is Malta a top EU destination for Americans in 2025?

Malta offers a rare combination for U.S. citizens:

Residency or citizenship in the EU
English as an official language
Mediterranean lifestyle
Strong legal and financial systems

Close to one million Americans already live in Europe. Malta's strategic location, Schengen access, and pro-U.S. policies make it especially appealing for retirees, remote workers, and investors. Safety also plays a role - Austria, Switzerland, and Malta rank far safer than the U.S. according to the 2024 Global Peace Index.

What is Malta’s Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP)?

The MPRP is a route to permanent residency in Malta (EU) for Americans. Key terms:

Real estate: Buy property for €375,000 or rent for €14,000/year
Government contribution: €30,000 (property) or €60,000 (rental)
NGO donation: €2,000 to charity
Administrative Fees: €50,000 for the main applicant, plus €10,000 per family member

This gives permanent residency in Malta (not citizenship), plus Schengen visa-free travel. It's ideal for Americans seeking residency in the EU without giving up U.S. citizenship.

How can Americans get Maltese citizenship?

Through the CES program (Citizenship by Naturalisation for Exceptional Services), Americans can acquire EU citizenship via investment after either a 12 months or 36 months residency status:

Real estate: Buy property for €700,000 or rent for €16,000/year
Government contribution: €600,000 (36-months residency status) or €750,000 (12-months residency status), plus €50,000 per family member
NGO Donation: €10,000 to charity
Administrative Fees: €21,500 for the main applicant, plus €12,500 per family member

Citizenship includes full EU mobility rights: live, work, study across 27 countries. Family inclusion (spouse, children, dependent parents) is allowed.

What about taxes and U.S. compliance?

U.S. citizens must file U.S. taxes worldwide. Malta’s laws help:

No tax on foreign income unless remitted
U.S. - Malta tax treaty limits double taxation

Proper planning with a dual-qualified tax advisor is advised.

What is daily life in Malta like for Americans?

English spoken everywhere
American-style healthcare, banking, and retail
Expat communities are strong
Weather is sunny year-round
Direct EU travel via Schengen access

Compared to other EU options, Malta offers easy integration, fast pathways to permanent status, and political stability. Digital nomads, retirees, and entrepreneurs all benefit.

If you’ve been considering international options, now is the time to act. Applications for both Malta residency and citizenship are processed on a limited basis - and as global demand increases, so do government fees and timelines.

Contact our office today to discuss your goals and receive a tailored quotation. We also invite you to try our new Cost Calculators for Malta Citizenship and Permanent Residency—designed to give you a clear estimate of the investment required based on your unique profile.

We look forward to hearing from you soon!

Because immigration by investment programs can change over time please contact us to speak with an advisor or to receive a preliminary quotation. The information provided in this blog post is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It should not be construed as legal or financial advice.

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