MALTA CITIZENSHIP BY MERIT
European Citizenship: The Ultimate Privilege for Global Leaders
Malta citizenship for international
applicants and their families.
Unlock a world of privilege and prestige with Maltese citizenship through the Malta Citizenship by Merit Program.
As a European Union passport holder, you and your family gain unparalleled access to 29 EU countries, visa-free travel to over 180 destinations, and the opportunity to live, work, or study anywhere in Europe.
Malta citizens can benefit from a wide range of world-class services, including free education and healthcare. Because Malta is a member of the European Union (EU), a passport from Malta conveys rights and privileges similar to the passports of Germany, France, or any other EU country. As such, Malta passport holders may live, work or study in any country belonging to the European Union.
International business executives, investors, VIPs as well as affluent citizens worldwide consider Malta citizenship a powerful asset and safety net should the living conditions at home become unfavorable, or to obtain a prestigious second passport to facilitate international travel. Because Malta allows dual citizenship, most applicants retain the citizenship of their home country in addition to receiving a second passport from Malta (EU).
Visa-free Travel
to 180+ Countries
Free Custom
Quotation
Live - Work -
Retire in the EU
Private &
Confidential
Family Members
Included
Full Citizenship &
Passport
Dual citizenship with Malta offers more than a second passport—it’s a statement of success and global mobility. Elevate your lifestyle with exclusive business opportunities, European banking, world-class healthcare, and premium education for your family.
In under two years, you can join an elite circle of global citizens who understand that true power lies in having options. Malta (EU) citizenship is your key to preserving wealth, protecting assets, and maintaining personal freedom in an uncertain world.
Malta's citizenship program represents a strategic investment in your legacy, ensuring your family's access to European privileges for generations to come.
Dual Citizenship: The Smart Strategy for Mobility and Security.
Application Requirements
The Maltese government has officially closed the "Malta Naturalisation for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment Regulations", also referred to as the "Maltese Exceptional Investor Naturalisation (MEIN)" citizenship by investment.
In its place, a new initiative — Citizenship by Merit — is expected to launch in Nov/Dec 2025, offering a fresh and forward-looking route to Maltese citizenship.
This emerging framework prioritizes meaningful contributions to Malta’s economy and global reputation, shifting focus away from one-time financial payments toward sustained impact, innovation, and service.
While full program details are still pending, early indicators suggest eligibility will focus on exceptional global contributors, including:
- Innovators in science, technology, education, healthcare, and advanced research
- Cultural, artistic, or athletic achievers
- Founders and business leaders supporting job creation and strategic investment
- Philanthropic and humanitarian leaders with demonstrable global impact
This marks a transition toward honoring individuals whose achievements serve Malta’s national priorities and elevate its international stature — placing emphasis on meaningful contribution rather than financial investment alone.
Typical cadence: residency cards are often issued within weeks once biometrics and baseline checks are complete; overall timelines vary and depend on document readiness, merit file complexity, and authority workload. See the application stages below for an indicative breakdown.
If you're unsure whether you qualify, contact us to discuss your profile and next steps. We can help assess your eligibility for Malta’s merit-based citizenship pathway.
Want to be among the first to know when the program launches? Use our contact form to stay informed — we’ll keep you updated as new details emerge, eligibility clarifies, and the application process goes live.
We look forward to helping you explore this exciting new pathway to Maltese citizenship.
The Benefits of Malta Citizenship
Many affluent citizens around the world consider the passport of an EU member country a powerful tool for international tax planning and to provide their families with a better quality of life.
Because Malta allows dual citizenship, most applicants retain the citizenship of their home country in addition to receiving a second passport from Malta (EU).
Applicants realize that the Maltese citizenship can
provide several benefits, including:
- Visa free travel to over 180 countries, including the USA, Canada, and Europe
- Living or retiring in a safe country with a warm climate
- A better education for the applicant’s children
- Children and grand children gain visa free travel and the right to live, work, or study in many countries
- A better quality of life for the family, including better healthcare and an unpolluted environment
- Relatively low real estate prices
- Personal security
- Tax advantages
- Freedom associated with having dual citizenship / a second passport
- Applicants are not required to continuously live in Malta after citizenship approval
Free Movement of Persons
The Malta citizenship program extends to the entire family for future generations. This includes not only the main applicant but also a spouse or long-term partner (of any gender), children, parents, and grandparents. All family members covered by the program have the freedom to travel, reside, and work without constraints within the European Union.
Free Movement of Goods & Services
Malta citizens and their affiliated companies enjoy the advantage of being able to seamlessly offer their products and services throughout the European Union member states. This unrestricted market access provides a significant opportunity for business expansion and collaboration within the EU, fostering economic growth and enhancing the competitive edge of Maltese entrepreneurs and enterprises on the European stage.
Free Movement of Capital
Holders of a Malta passport benefit from a range of financial and investment opportunities within the European Union. With the privilege of being able to transfer funds seamlessly between EU member states, Malta passport holders have the flexibility to manage their finances efficiently across borders. Additionally, they enjoy the freedom to purchase property in any EU country of their choice, providing them with diverse real estate investment options and the ability to establish residences according to personal preferences.
Attractive Tax System
Malta stands out as a compelling financial center, drawing attention
for its highly advantageous tax system and strategic geographical
position at the nexus of three continents – Europe, Africa, and
Asia. The combination of these factors makes Malta an ideal destination
for individuals and businesses seeking favorable tax conditions
and a strategic location for international trade and commerce.
The favorable tax system in Malta encompasses various incentives
and exemptions, contributing to the nation's appeal as a financial
hub. Applicants are advised to secure the services of an independent
tax specialist. Should you require assistance in this regard,
we would be glad to facilitate an introduction to reputable tax
specialists familiar with Malta's tax landscape.
High Standard of Living
Holders of Malta residency or citizenship enjoy an elevated standard
of living, attributed to their access to esteemed private schools,
reliable private medical facilities, and Malta's standing with one
of the lowest crime rates in Europe. In Malta, a harmonious coexistence
prevails among multiple cultures, fostering a peaceful and inclusive
community. The unpolluted air, codified property rights, and the
freedom of expression contribute to the well-rounded quality of
life that residents and citizens experience in Malta.
Because
of the country's history as a former British colony the Maltese
school system reflects the British structure. There are two school
categories: state schools and private schools. State schools are
free to all students (including free transportation and free books),
while private schools such as international schools charge tuition
fees. Attending the renowned University of Malta for an undergraduate
or graduate/post-graduate degree is free for Malta citizens and
their children.
Visa Free Travel
Possessing a Malta passport offers a range of travel advantages, eliminating the need for a visa when traversing within the European Union. This facilitates seamless travel experiences for Malta passport holders, allowing them to explore the diverse landscapes, cultures, and opportunities that the EU member states have to offer. Additionally, Malta passport holders also enjoy visa-free travel to numerous non-EU countries, providing them with global mobility and accessibility.
Application Stages — Citizenship by Merit (CBM)
- Stage 0 — Citizenship Proposal Outline
Government-mandated AML/KYC screening, then a structured consult to map your background and intended contribution (e.g., local charity support, new business, or other qualifying initiative). We draft a preliminary proposal outline, aligning your merits with Malta’s priorities and agree next steps.Targeted result: Initial due-diligence complete; strength assessment and action plan.
Indicative timing: ~1 week. - Stage 1 — Malta Residency Application
Preparation and filing of the temporary residency application: forms, document collation, and biometrics scheduling with the authorities.Targeted result: Malta residency cards (Schengen enablement) and CBM platform for eligibility.
Indicative timing: 2–3 months. - Stage 2 — Citizenship Proposal Preparation
Build the full merit case: achievements, Malta-focused impact, feasibility, governance, and delivery plan across themes such as innovation, culture, sustainability, or social impact. Evidence is indexed for verification.Targeted result: Complete merit proposal ready for submission.
Indicative timing: varies by complexity. - Stage 3 — Citizenship Eligibility Application
Technical step: prepare and file the formal eligibility application. Authorities run extensive due-diligence (identity, integrity, source of funds/wealth). We manage RFIs.Targeted result: Eligibility approval under CBM.
Indicative timing: ~4–6 months. - Stage 4 — Malta Citizenship Application
Following eligibility approval, file the citizenship application, schedule the oath/pledge, and coordinate Certificate of Naturalization and passport issuance.Targeted result: Confirmation of Maltese (EU) citizenship and passport issuance.
Indicative timing: ~1–2 months. - Stage 5 — Implementation & Ongoing
Monitoring (optional)
Post-grant support to implement your merit contribution and manage any ongoing compliance or progress reporting as required.Targeted result: Successful implementation and compliance confirmations.
Indicative timing: as needed.
Notes: Timeframes are indicative and depend on document readiness, proposal complexity, and authority workload.
Malta Citizenship Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The following are questions frequently asked about Malta's Citizenship by Merit program. If you don't find your answers here, please contact us at your convenience, or review our extended FAQ page.
Q: What is the Malta Citizenship by Merit Program?
A: The Malta Citizenship by Merit Program is
the country’s newly established pathway for granting EU citizenship
to distinguished individuals who demonstrate exceptional contributions
across sectors such as science, entrepreneurship, culture, and global
impact. Unlike previous models focused primarily on investment thresholds,
this program recognizes talent, innovation, and strategic value
to the nation.
The Merit Program replaces Malta’s former
“Citizenship by Exceptional Services” initiative, which officially
closed in April 2025 following an extensive government review. Slated
to launch in Nov/Dec 2025, the Citizenship by Merit Program introduces
elevated standards for applicants and emphasizes integrity, reputation,
and long-term engagement with Malta.
Q: Are your attorneys licensed by the Malta government?
A: Yes. Our immigration attorneys are Licensed
Agents by the Community Malta Agency (Aġenzija Komunita' Malta)
/ Authorized Registered Mandatories.
Q: What is the cost of the Malta Citizenship by Merit
program?
A: Malta no longer grants
citizenship solely based on financial contributions. Instead, applicants
must now meet merit-based criteria, such as cultural, scientific,
economic, or philanthropic contributions to Malta. While financial
investment may still be part of one’s profile, it's no longer a
guaranteed route to citizenship.
Bottom line: There is no fixed cost anymore. Eligibility depends on merit, meaningful engagement, and alignment with Malta’s national interest.
We can help assess your eligibility for Malta’s merit-based citizenship pathway. If you're unsure whether you qualify, contact us to discuss your profile and next steps.
Q: How will new citizens be taxed?
A: Malta taxation is only based on domicile (your
permanent home), and not on residency or citizenship status.
Under Maltese Law, at birth you automatically acquire your domicile
status (Domicile of Origin) from your father. If your father later
changes his domicile to a new location (Domicile of Choice), yours
automatically changes to this new location as well. On attaining
the age of 18, you are allowed to acquire a new domicile of choice,
but there is no such requirement.
This means if you don’t
make Malta your domicile, then only income and capital gains generated
from activities inside Malta are fully taxable. Income, such as
from employment, arising outside of Malta and not sent to Malta
is not taxable. In addition, capital gains or savings generated
outside of Malta even if brought into Malta are not taxable for
non-domiciled residents.
In other words, tax is due only
on (a) income generated inside of Malta, (b) capital gains arising
inside of Malta, and (c) income generated outside of Malta and remitted
to Malta.
Other Tax Considerations:
- No inheritance or death taxes
- No estate duty
- No net worth or wealth taxes
- No municipal taxes, rates or real estate taxes
Q: Can I include my family with my Malta citizenship
application?
A: Yes. The main
applicant may include a spouse or long-term partner (gender neutral),
children under 18, financially dependent adult children under 29,
and parents and grandparents over 55.
Q: Will my citizenship expire?
A: No. When you acquire Malta citizenship you and
your family enjoy full citizenship for life, which can be passed
on to future generations by descent.
Q: How long does it take to get Malta citizenship?
A: Timelines vary by documentation readiness,
proposal complexity, and authority workload. As a guide: residency
cards are often issued within weeks after biometrics and baseline
checks; the eligibility review commonly spans several months,
followed by citizenship approval and issuance after oath/pledge
scheduling. See the “Application Stages” above for indicative durations
at each step.
Q: Can you help me find suitable real estate in Malta?
A: Yes. Please review available properties
with pictures and prices on our
Malta real estate page.
In addition, we offer a full range of professional real
estate services to buyers; please request our "Malta Real Estate
Services" brochure for details.
Further, we are associated
with licensed real estate agencies and developers in Malta and can
help you find a property that fulfills all requirements. We will
ensure that your preferred property meets the minimum standards
of your residency or citizenship application as many properties
currently do not meet these requirements. Having rented or bought
a property that does not meet the government regulation can lead
to a lot of frustration and additional expenses when trying to bring
such a property up to code.
Our professional relationships
in Malta guarantee to our clients a smooth, comprehensive service
that includes identifying suitable properties, providing transport
for property viewings, drafting/reviewing legal contracts, and/or
liaising with local notaries and architects as needed.
When
you decide on a property for purchase we can set up a Power of Attorney
to appear on your behalf without the need for you to travel to Malta
to finalize the transaction.
Q: Do I need to invest in a Malta company and create
jobs to qualify for the citizenship program?
A: While the Malta Citizenship by Merit program
does not mandate business investment or job creation, these activities
may strengthen your application. Demonstrating a positive economic
impact, such as creating jobs in Malta or supporting local enterprises,
can be viewed as a meaningful contribution aligned with the merit-based
criteria. Unlike the
EB-5 Investor Visa in the United States, Malta does not impose
specific investment thresholds or employment targets. However, applicants
who generate employment, contribute to innovation, or expand Malta’s
economic footprint may be considered favorably within the program’s
discretionary framework.
Q: Will the Malta citizenship automatically grant me
European citizenship?
A: Yes. Because
Malta is a member of the European Union its citizens are automatically
European citizens, which means you are allowed to live, work or
study anywhere in Europe. If you are ready to file an application
please contact us for additional information.
Q: Does Malta allow dual citizenship with the United
States?
A: Yes—Malta permits dual
citizenship with the United States as well as many other countries.
This means eligible applicants can retain their original passport
and also acquire a Maltese passport. However, check your home country’s
stance, as some countries prohibit dual citizenship.
Malta
has long allowed dual citizenship, with legal pathways including
birth, registration, naturalization, and the fast-track Citizenship
by Merit Program. Similarly, the United States does not require
its citizens to relinquish U.S. nationality when obtaining a second
citizenship.
If your country of origin permits it, you -
and eligible family members - can enjoy dual citizenship in Malta.
The Maltese government imposes no restrictions on holding both Maltese
and foreign nationalities. As a Maltese citizen, you gain access
to full EU privileges, including the freedom to live, work, and
study across Europe.
Key benefits of Malta citizenship include
visa-free travel to over 180 countries (including the U.S., Canada,
and the UK), access to world-class healthcare and education, and
the ability to preserve personal and financial freedom across jurisdictions.
Q: What is Malta's position on fintech / cryptocurrency
/ blockchain technology?
A: Malta
is rapidly becoming a leading jurisdiction for fintech innovation,
particularly in blockchain and digital assets. The country's progressive
regulatory framework covers traders, asset managers, and exchange
platforms - positioning Malta as one of the most welcoming environments
globally for the sector.
Importantly, under the Citizenship
by Merit program, impactful fintech initiatives may be recognized
as valuable contributions to Malta’s economic and technological
development. Projects that demonstrate innovation, create jobs,
or strengthen Malta’s fintech ecosystem could be considered favorably
within the merit-based assessment criteria.
Our affiliated
crypto and blockchain professionals are recognized thought leaders
and can advise you on best practices and strategic positioning for
fintech ventures in Malta.
Use our fintech contact form for tailored guidance.
Q: What does "Schengen Area" mean?
A: Malta citizenship allows you to travel without
restrictions across the "Schengen Area" of the European Union. The
Schengen Area is a group of 29 European countries that have abolished
passport and immigration controls at their common borders. It functions
as a single country for international travel purposes, with a common
visa policy.
Q: Will I be able to travel to the United States with
the Malta passport?
A: Yes. The
Malta passport will allow you to travel to the U.S. under the visa
waiver program which allows citizens of participating countries
to travel to the United States without a visa for stays of 90 days.
Please contact us for a detailed cost estimate or confidential consultation in person, or by phone, Zoom, or email. Our attorneys are ready to assist you with attaining your investment objectives and answer any questions you might have about immigrating to Malta.
Zenturo Ltd.
Residency & Citizenship by Investment
Programs Worldwide
394A / 395A, Triq il-Kbira San Guzepp
Santa Venera, SVR 1016
Malta
Phone: +356 9950 5515
WhatsApp: +356 9991 4125
Telegram: +356 9991 4125
WeChat 微信:
ZenturoSupport
Skype: Zenturo Ltd. Support
Service Inquiries:
service@zenturo.com
General Counsel: legal@zenturo.com
Company Registration No.: C-39472
VAT ID: MT-18142026
All of our Malta immigration attorneys are government-licensed
Authorised Registered Mandatories.
License: AKM-DALI
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