How easy is it to get Malta citizenship?

Applying for citizenship is never an easy process in the EU. Malta residents who want to become a citizen by naturalization instead of applying under the citizenship by investment program might need to wait for 10 to 15 years or longer for approvals.

Applying under the Malta citizenship by investment program is much faster. Applicants can receive Maltese citizenship between 12 to 18 months when selecting the 12 months residency option, and Malta residency status after only two to three weeks from application start.    

The process of applying for Malta investment citizenship includes the completion of detailed application forms and the collection of various supporting documents for the main applicant and any family members or dependants. All application forms and documentation must be vetted by a government-licensed agent, called a registered mandatory. Only the licensed agent can submit the application case file to the government. 

Further, the application process entails a strict due-diligence procedure, including background checks to ensure the applicant has no criminal record. Minor infractions should be explained and cleared with the Malta government before an application is filed. Only the Malta government has the authority to approve or reject an application for citizenship.

Applying for the Malta citizenship by investment program requires a total expense of at least €632,000 plus fees and a purchase or rental of Malta real estate. Applicants must contribute €600,000 or €750,000 to the Government of Malta depending on the length of residency prior to citizenship. Applicants must also donate €10,000 to a non-government philanthropic organization in Malta.

In addition, applicants must rent or buy a qualifying property in Malta with a purchase price of at least €700,000 or annual rental expense of €16,000 when applying under the Malta citizenship by investment program.

Once citizenship is granted, Malta citizens can apply for the Malta passport (the EU passport) and live in any of the other EU member countries. Malta citizenship further allows you visa-free travel to over 180 destinations, including the US, Canada, and the UK.

Summary

Is it easy to get the Malta citizenship? The process of applying for a residency or citizenship through an investment program in Malta follows a regulated procedure, involving specific application steps, comprehensive form submissions, and successful completion of due diligence checks. Applicants are also required to pay applicable government fees, fulfill investment and donation requirements, and acquire residential real estate property through purchase or lease. The processing time for the citizenship by investment program typically ranges from 12 to 18 months until citizenship is granted, while residency can be obtained within approximately two weeks.

Main Points: Is Malta Citizenship Easy?

---

Because the Malta immigration by investment program details can change over time please contact us about the current rules and regulations.

Click here for the Malta citizenship by investment program. 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.
 
Other articles in this series:

• The Basics / Malta Citizenship: Does Malta allow dual citizenship with the USA?

• The Basics / Malta Citizenship: Do you get citizenship if you buy real estate in Malta?

• The Basics / Malta Citizenship: How easy is it to get Malta citizenship?

• The Basics / Malta Citizenship: How long does it take to get the Malta citizenship?

• The Basics / Malta Citizenship: What is the cost of the Malta citizenship by investment program?

• The Basics / Malta Citizenship: What is the difference between residency and citizenship of Malta?

• The Basics / Malta Citizenship: What are the benefits of Malta citizenship?

• The Basics / Malta Residency: How easy is it to get Malta residency?

• The Basics / Malta Residency: How do you qualify for residency in Malta?

• The Basics / Malta Residency: Can I get residency in Malta if I buy a house?

• The Basics / Malta Residency: Can I get permanent residency in Malta by investment?

• The Basics / Malta Residency: How long does it take to get a Golden Visa in Malta?