CITIZENSHIP AND RESIDENCY BY INVESTMENT BLOG

The "best" immigration by investment program.

Note (2026): Malta’s former Citizenship by Investment program has been replaced by the Citizenship by Merit framework.

We are frequently asked "What's the best immigration by investment program out there right now?"

Answer: The answer to this question depends on three critical factors that are unique for each applicant: his/her desired geographical region, urgency, and budget.

1) Geographic Location. There are three global regions from which to choose: Europe (several EU countries), the Americas (Canada or the United States) and the Caribbean. Some of these locations beckon with a favorable business environment and superior education system, while others boast a sunny, warm climate all year round. Yet these factors are not mutually exclusive - various locations combine these benefits.

2) Speed of Application Processing. The second major factor in deciding on a citizenship program is the time it takes to actually obtain the new passport. Application processing can be as fast as 90 - 180 days (Cyprus), while other locations require at least 10 years in permanent resident status before an application for citizenship may be filed (Spain).

3) Budget. The major stumbling block for many potential applicants is the minimum investment amount which is set by the governments of the host country. Not surprisingly, the fastest citizenship program (Cyprus, 90 - 180 days till passport) is also the most expensive at Euro 2.0 million. But there are other programs, such as Bulgaria, for example, which offer reasonable speed (18 months) at a much lower cost (starting at Euro 390,000 for a financed investment product). The citizenship by investment program of Malta also takes about 18 months, at a total cash outlay of approximately Euro 800,000 not including legal fees. Please contact us with your preferences so that we may inform you of the options that fit your budget.   

Because residency and citizenship frameworks can evolve 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.

---

MALTA INFORMATION CENTER

Everything you need to know about Malta citizenship, residency, and real estate.

Malta Citizenship

• A Comprehensive Guide to Malta Citizenship by Merit

• Does Malta allow dual citizenship with the USA?

• Do you get citizenship if you buy real estate in Malta?

• How easy is it to get Malta citizenship?

• How long does it take to get the Malta citizenship?

• What is the cost of obtaining Malta citizenship?

• What is the difference between residency and citizenship of Malta?

• What are the benefits of Malta citizenship?

Malta Residency

• How easy is it to get Malta residency?

• How do you qualify for residency in Malta?

• Can I get residency in Malta if I buy a house?

• Can I get permanent residency in Malta by investment?

• How long does it take to get a Golden Visa in Malta?

Malta Real Estate

• A Comprehensive Guide to Buying Real Estate in Malta

• A Comprehensive Guide to Renting Property in Malta

• A Comprehensive Guide to Relocation to Malta

• Discover the Malta Lifestyle

• Investing in Malta Commercial Real Estate

• Investing in the Malta Residential Real Estate

• What are Malta Special Designated Areas (SDA)?

---

Click here for the Malta citizenship by merit framework. Click here for the Malta residency programs.

To start the application process online please register here.

For a detailed cost estimate or to schedule a confidential consultation please use our contact form.