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 186 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 September 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.
The citizenship program grants temporary Maltese residency (valid for one year) within weeks. Full issuance of the citizenship certificate typically takes 12-16 months.
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.
The Application Procedure Step by Step
Step 1: Initial Consultation
Begin by
completing our contact form to request a personalized cost estimate
for you and your family. Applicants submitting more than one family
profile may be eligible for a group discount.
This initial consultation is provided at no charge.
Step 2: Document Preparation
Once you choose
to proceed with your citizenship application, our immigration attorney
and dedicated case specialists will guide you through the process,
ensuring completion of all required forms and collection of supporting
documentation. Your application file is then submitted to the Maltese
authorities for review.
Step 3: Application Processing
The Maltese
government reviews the submission and initiates its due diligence
procedures. The result may be an Approval in Principle, a request
for clarification or additional documents, or a denial.
Step 4: Compliance Phase
Following Approval
in Principle, the applicant must demonstrate continued compliance
with program requirements. These include real estate acquisition
or lease, health insurance, financial undertakings, and other conditions
based on the program.
Step 5: Citizenship Certificate Issuance
Citizenship candidates will complete an Oath of Allegiance before
being granted a Certificate of Naturalization, followed by issuance
of their Maltese (EU) passport.
The entire process, from Step #1 to Step #5, can be completed in as little as 12 - 16 months.
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. That program had gained international
attention for its rigorous vetting and transparent process but was sunset
to make way for a more merit-oriented, reputation-enhancing framework.
Slated to launch in September 2025, the Citizenship by
Merit Program introduces elevated standards for applicants and emphasizes
integrity, reputation, and long-term engagement with Malta. It reflects
Malta’s vision of citizenship not merely as a transactional benefit,
but as a privilege earned through demonstrable excellence.
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 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: How long does it take to get Malta citizenship?
A: The Malta Citizenship by Merit program typically
takes 12 to 16 months, with the exact timeline depending on how
quickly the applicant provides required documentation.
Applicants
first obtain Malta residency, usually within a few weeks, by submitting
initial documents. This grants an E-Residence card, which acts like
a Schengen Visa for travel across Europe.
The second step
is the citizenship application itself, including a comprehensive
background check and vetting process. Once approved, the applicant
receives Maltese citizenship and their EU passport.
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: How soon can I sell my Malta real estate?
A: Property held under the Malta citizenship program
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 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 programs such as 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 under 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, while Malta
and the U.S. recognize dual nationality, it’s important to verify
your home country’s stance. Some countries, such as China, prohibit
dual citizenship and may require you to renounce your original nationality
before acquiring another.
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.
Please use our fintech contact form for tailored guidance and
further information.
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. 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-DALI
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