MALTA CITIZENSHIP BY INVESTMENT


Malta Citizenship

Malta citizenship for investors and their families.

Unlock a world of privilege and prestige with Maltese citizenship through the Citizenship by Investment Program.

As a European Union passport holder, you and your family gain unparalleled access to 27 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).

Malta visa-free travel

Visa-free Travel
to 186 Countries

Malta citizenship quotation

Free Custom
Quotation

Malta residency quotation

Live - Work -
Retire in the EU

Malta MPRP

Private &
Confidential

Malta Family Immigration

Family Members
Included

Malta Citizenship and Passport

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. This is more than a second passport – it's 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: Where Power Meets Freedom.

Investment Amounts and Fees

Malta's citizenship by investment program, the "Malta Naturalisation for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment Regulations", also referred to as the "Maltese Exceptional Investor Naturalisation (MEIN)", requires three main types of expenses: government-mandated investments/donations, government application fees, and service provider legal fees.

The applicant makes the required investments after receiving the citizenship approval in principle, and residing in Malta continuously during or after the residency period is not a requirement to receive citizenship.

The total number of citizenship certificates granted is limited to 400 per year. Please contact us to receive a detailed quotation.

PROGRAM COST:

  1. Malta Exceptional Direct Investment (non-refundable donation to the Malta government): 
    1. Main applicant: Choose between EUR 600,000 (36 months residency period) or EUR 750,000 (12 months residency period)
    2. Each dependent (if any): EUR 50,000
  2. Malta Philanthropic Donation: 
    1. Main applicant only: EUR 10,000
  3. Malta Property Investment (minimum 5 year holding period): 
    1. Main applicant only: Choose between a property purchase at EUR 700,000 or a property rental at EUR 16,000 per year
  4. Malta Government Fees:
    1. Residence permit fee, main applicant: EUR 5,000. Each dependent (if any): EUR 1,000
    2. Residence card: EUR 27.50 per card
    3. Citizenship eligibility due diligence fee, main applicant: EUR 15,000. Each dependent age 12 and over (if any): EUR 10,000
    4. Citizenship eligibility administrative fee, each applicant: EUR 1,000
    5. Citizenship administrative fee, each applicant: EUR 500
  5. Legal Fees: 
    1. Depending on the number of family members to be included. Please ask us about a custom quotation for you / your family.

If the price seems seems high, remember: Financial investments can go to zero. The freedom of a second passport pays dividends forever!

Malta Citizenship Application

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 before or 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.

Malta Residency Application

The Malta Citizenship by Investment Application Procedure Step by Step

Step #1: Application Start
The applicant retains our government-licensed immigration attorney to represent him/her throughout the application procedure.

Step #2: Residency Application
Next, the applicant rents a local residence to cover the residency period, and we file for Malta residency status, which allows visa-free Schengen travel, valid for up to 36 months.

Step #3: Citizenship Eligibility Application
After the applicant has received residency status, we proceed with filing for Malta citizenship eligibility.

Step #4: Citizenship Application
After eligibility is confirmed, we submit the Malta citizenship application. If approved, the government issues a conditional Approval in Principle.

Step #5: Investments 
Upon receiving the approval in principle, the applicant fulfills all remaining requirements, including making the required investment/donation and securing a property for a minimum of 5 years through either purchase or rental.

Step #6: Oath of Allegiance
The final step involves taking the Oath of Allegiance, after which the applicant receives the Certificate of Naturalization and the Malta passport.

The entire process, from Step #1 to Step #6, can be completed in as little as 14 - 18 months.

Malta MPRP Application

Malta Citizenship Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

The following are select questions frequently asked about the Maltese citizenship by investment program. If you don't find your answers here, please contact us at your convenience. Click here for a long version of all FAQs.

Q: Are your attorneys licensed by the Malta government?
A: Yes. Our immigration attorneys are licensed "Authorized Registered Mandatories" as designated by the Government of Malta (Aġenzija Komunita' Malta). Applicants are not permitted to file residency or citizenship applications themselves due to the complexities involved in preparing all government-mandated application forms.

Applications may only be submitted to the Malta government by an agent licensed by the Community Malta Agency. Feel free to peruse the profiles of our attorneys.



Q: What is the minimum investment required to obtain the Malta citizenship?
A: Applicants under the Naturalisation for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment Regulation are required to make a one-time financial commitment in support of the economic development of Malta. 

Citizenship is available to qualified investors for a contribution, meaning a non-refundable donation, in the amount of EUR 600,000 (36 months residency option) or EUR 750,000 (12 months residency option) plus government application charges and legal fees.

In addition, the main applicant must make a philanthropic donation in the amount of EUR 10,000 to a registered philanthropic, cultural, sport, scientific, animal welfare or artistic non-governmental organization.

Further, the main applicant must establish a residence in Malta through either (a) purchasing real estate valued at no less than EUR 700,000 or (b) renting a property at no less than EUR 16,000 per year.

NOTE: The contribution/investment needs to be made only after the government has issued the Citizenship Approval in Principle. In other words, no investments need to be made before the citizenship application is approved.

Please use our contact form to receive a detailed cost estimate.



Q: How will new citizens be taxed?
A: In general, 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
Given the complexity of tax matters, we recommend consulting a licensed tax advisor for personalized guidance. Should you require assistance, we can facilitate an introduction to a qualified Maltese tax professional. Kindly contact us for further information or to schedule an appointment.
 


Q: Can I include my family with my Malta citizenship application?
A: Yes. The main applicant for Maltese citizenship may include a spouse or long-term partner (gender neutral), children under 18 years of age, financially dependent adult children under the age of 29, and parents and grandparents over the age of 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: Do I need to move to Malta or live in Malta for a minimum number of days during the year to qualify for residency or citizenship?
A: No. Applicants do not need to move to Malta or live in the country for a full year to satisfy the one year (or three year) residency requirement when applying for citizenship. Instead, an applicant can meet the requirement by proving a genuine link with Malta as evidenced by, for example, several visits per year, showing water and electricity bills, having a club membership, engaging in any business activity in Malta, and similar. Our attorneys will assist you to be in full compliance with Maltese regulations.



Q: How long does the application processing take until I get citizenship?
A: In general, application processing can take as little as 12 to 18 months. The Malta citizenship application process is performed in two stages: the first stage is Malta residency, the second stage is Malta citizenship.

The residency stage takes approximately 15 working days to process, after which residency status is conferred upon the applicant. The main applicant and any dependents are provided with an E-Residence document which is equivalent to a Schengen Visa, granting Malta residency and borderless travel to all Schengen countries.

After you receive residency status your assigned attorney will work with you on preparing your citizenship eligibility application. The application can be filed immediately after you have been in residency status for 12 months or 36 months, depending on your choice of investment option.

Lastly, processing times also depend on how fast the applicant can provide supporting documentation.  



Q: Can you help me find suitable real estate in Malta?
A: Yes. Feel free to browse 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 application 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: How soon can I sell my Malta real estate?
A: The property needs to be held for five years. After this period, property in Malta can be sold completely exempt from tax if it has been held for three years as the resident’s sole and ordinary residence. If the property is sold before having been used as the resident’s sole residence for three years, a final property tax of 12% is chargeable on the selling price.



Q: Do I need to invest in a Malta company and create jobs to qualify for the program?
A: No. Unlike other programs such as the EB-5 Investor Visa in the United States, Malta has no requirements to invest in a business or create new jobs.



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.

However, please note that the total number of citizenships (total number of passports) the Maltese government has made available under the new regulation is limited to only 400 per year! If you are ready to file an application please contact us for additional information. 



Q: What is the difference between the Naturalisation for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment Regulation and the Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP)?
A: The Malta Naturalisation for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment Regulation (Maltese Exceptional Investor Naturalisation / MEIN) is a program that offers qualified applicants, including EU nationals and non-EU nationals, Malta residency and citizenship (the Malta passport) in return for a one-time contribution to the Malta economy as outlined in the section "Investment Amounts and Fees" above.

The Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP), on the other hand, leads to permanent residency, meaning the permission to live in Malta as long as desired, and visa-free travel to all European countries within the Schengen area for 90 out of 180 days. The application process usually takes 4 to 6 months, but it does not lead to the Maltese (EU) citizenship or the Malta passport. Residents may file a citizenship application after 6 years in residency status, but there is no guarantee that an approval will be granted, and approvals typically take 10 to 15 years.

For additional information about Malta's residency programs please visit our Malta Residency page.



Q: What is Malta's position on fintech / crypto-currency / blockchain technology?
A: Malta is fast establishing itself as the premier destination for cryptocurrency and blockchain technology. The government's regulatory framework will cover traders, asset management, and exchange platforms, thus making Malta the world’s friendliest jurisdiction for the sector. Our associated crypto / blockchain professionals are published experts in this field who can advise you on best practices for fintech-related topics in Malta. Please use our fintech contact form for additional information. 



Q: What does "Schengen Area" mean?
A: Malta residency/citizenship allows you to travel without restrictions across the "Schengen Area" of the European Union. The Schengen zone is a group of 26 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. Source: Wikipedia



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 or less. Source: U.S. Government


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-BALD

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Immigration by Investment Press Coverage:

Malta Immigration Program