MALTA CITIZENSHIP BY MERIT (CBM)
Malta’s citizenship by merit framework allows the Maltese authorities to grant citizenship, at their discretion, to individuals who make an exceptional contribution to Malta and who meet the due-diligence and eligibility requirements.
About the Citizenship by Merit Framework
Information for international applicants and their families.
Maltese citizenship may be granted on the basis of merit under the Maltese Citizenship Act (Cap. 188). This page provides general information on how the framework operates, the stages of an application, and the questions applicants most often ask.
Citizenship also carries obligations. Access to public services in Malta, such as education and healthcare, is governed by Maltese law and depends on an individual’s status. Applicants should consider the rights and obligations of citizenship carefully before applying.
Malta permits dual citizenship. Whether an applicant may keep their existing citizenship depends on the law of their country of origin, and this should be confirmed before applying.
Answers to common questions, including on dual citizenship and taxation, are provided in the FAQ section below.
Dual Citizenship
Malta permits dual citizenship. Whether you may keep your current citizenship depends on the law of your country of origin.
Family Members
Family members may be included where the applicable rules allow. Eligible dependants are set by each programme’s official criteria.
Legal Framework
Residence and citizenship applications are governed by Maltese law and decided by the competent Maltese authorities.
Healthcare
Malta has a public healthcare system alongside private hospitals and clinics. Access depends on residence or citizenship status.
Education
Malta has state, church and independent schools. Maltese and English are the official languages.
Confidential Enquiries
Enquiries are handled confidentially. Our initial qualification assessment form is free of charge.
Before You Apply
The citizenship by merit framework is not an investment programme. Applications are assessed individually against the applicable criteria, and the decision rests with the competent Maltese authorities.
Applicants are expected to demonstrate a genuine link with Malta and to undergo extensive due diligence, including checks on identity, integrity, and the source of funds and wealth.
Meeting the criteria does not guarantee that citizenship will be granted. We review each applicant’s background before any application is filed, and we advise against applying where we consider the requirements are unlikely to be met.
About the Framework
The Maltese government has closed the "Malta Naturalisation for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment Regulations", also referred to as "Maltese Exceptional Investor Naturalisation (MEIN)".
Maltese citizenship may now be granted on the basis of merit (Citizenship by Merit) under the Maltese Citizenship Act.
The framework considers contributions that serve Malta’s national interest. Proposals may involve different forms of contribution, each of which is assessed individually by the competent authority.
Areas in which an exceptional contribution may be considered include:
- Science, technology, education, healthcare and research
- Culture, the arts and sport
- Business and entrepreneurship, including activities that create employment in Malta
- Philanthropy and humanitarian work
To begin, you can complete our free Malta Citizenship by Merit Qualification Assessment Form to indicate the categories you believe apply to you.
Each application is assessed individually and the decision is discretionary. Meeting the criteria does not guarantee that citizenship will be granted.
Applicants must first hold residence status in Malta before a citizenship eligibility application is considered. The stages of an application are described below.
If you are unsure whether you meet the criteria, complete our free Malta CBM qualification assessment form or contact us. For other grounds for acquiring Maltese citizenship, see our page on citizenship by descent, or this overview of the grounds for acquiring Maltese citizenship.
Feel free to use our contact form if you have any questions.
Rights and Practical Considerations
Applicants consider Maltese citizenship for a range of personal and family reasons. Citizenship carries both rights and obligations, which are summarised below.
Applicants should also confirm whether their country of origin permits dual citizenship (see the FAQ below).
Matters applicants typically consider before applying include:
- The rights and obligations of Maltese citizenship
- Whether their country of origin permits dual citizenship
- Schooling, healthcare and housing arrangements for family members
- Their tax position in Malta and in their current country of residence
- How they will maintain a genuine link with Malta
- The due-diligence and documentation requirements, including evidence of the source of funds and wealth
Family Members
Family members may be included in an application where the applicable rules allow. See the FAQ below for the family members who are typically included.
Taxation
Malta operates its own tax system, including specific regimes for certain categories of residents. In Malta, liability to tax is generally based on residence and domicile rather than citizenship, so obtaining citizenship does not by itself determine an individual’s tax position.
Tax treatment depends on individual circumstances. Applicants are advised to obtain advice from an independent tax specialist. On request, we can provide an introduction to tax specialists familiar with Maltese tax law.
Living in Malta
Malta has a public healthcare system alongside private hospitals and clinics. Access to public healthcare depends on an individual’s residence or citizenship status. Maltese and English are the official languages.
The Maltese school system includes state, church and independent schools. State schools do not charge tuition fees, while independent schools, including international schools, charge fees. Tuition arrangements at the University of Malta depend on the student’s status and course. Applicants planning to relocate should consider practical matters such as housing, schooling and health insurance in advance.
How to Apply under the Malta Citizenship by Merit Framework
An application under the citizenship by merit framework involves several stages: initial screening, residence, due diligence and eligibility, assessment of the merit proposal, and, if approved, the citizenship application and oath of allegiance.
- Proposal Outline and Assessment
Government-mandated AML/KYC screening, followed by a structured consultation to review your background and intended contribution (for example, charitable, business or other initiatives in Malta). We prepare a proposal outline, review your planned contribution against the framework’s criteria, and advise you on whether to proceed.Purpose: Initial due diligence, assessment of the proposed contribution, and a recommendation on whether to proceed. - Residence (Malta Residence Application)
Preparation and filing of the required temporary residence application: forms, document collation, and coordination of your biometrics appointment with the Maltese authorities.Purpose: Residence status in Malta, which is required before a citizenship eligibility application can be filed. - Due Diligence (Malta Citizenship Eligibility Application)
The most technical stage. We prepare and file the formal eligibility application while the authorities carry out multi-jurisdiction due diligence (identity, integrity, source of funds and wealth), and we respond to any requests for further information. The eligibility application may be filed once the applicant has held residence status for the period required by the framework.Purpose: A decision on eligibility. - Merit Proposal
We prepare the full merit proposal, covering achievements, intended contribution to Malta, feasibility, governance and a delivery plan, with themes such as innovation, culture, sustainability or social impact, aligned with Malta Vision 2050. Supporting evidence is indexed for verification. The scope of the proposal depends on the nature of the contribution; for example, a business-related proposal may require a business plan and financial projections. In practice, the merit proposal is prepared in parallel with the due diligence stage, and both are submitted together as one case file.Purpose: A complete merit proposal submitted with the eligibility case. - Citizenship Application
Following eligibility approval, we finalise and file the citizenship application. Approved applicants take the oath of allegiance and receive a Certificate of Naturalisation.Purpose: A decision on the citizenship application. - Optional: Proposal Implementation & Compliance Reporting
Support after the decision to implement the proposed contribution and manage any ongoing compliance or progress reporting the authority may require.Purpose: Implementation of the contribution and any required compliance reporting.
Note: Processing times depend on the competent authorities and on the circumstances of each application.
Malta Citizenship Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The following are questions frequently asked about Malta's Citizenship by Merit framework.
If you don't find your answers here, please contact us at your convenience, or review our extended FAQ page.
Q: Are your attorneys licensed by the Malta government?
A: Yes. Zenturo’s Malta applications are filed by a government-licensed attorney,
Dr. Alexei Dalli (Residency Malta Agency license RES-DALI; formerly
Komunita’ Malta AKM-DALI), authorised to represent applicants before the Maltese
authorities.
Q: What does an application under the Citizenship by Merit framework cost?
A: Citizenship under the framework is not granted
on the basis of a financial contribution alone, and there is no fixed
contribution amount. Each application is assessed on the applicant’s
contribution and individual merits, in line with Malta’s national
interest.
Applicable government charges are set by the competent authority. For information on our professional fees, please contact us. If you are unsure whether you meet the criteria, you can also complete our free Malta CBM qualification assessment form.
Q: How will new citizens be taxed?
A: In Malta, liability to tax depends on residence
and domicile rather than on citizenship. Acquiring Maltese citizenship
does not by itself make a person resident or domiciled in Malta for
tax purposes.
Domicile is a legal concept that broadly refers to a person’s permanent
home. A person acquires a domicile of origin at birth and may later
acquire a domicile of choice.
Individuals who are resident but not domiciled in Malta are generally
taxed on income arising in Malta and on foreign income remitted
to Malta. Foreign capital gains are generally not taxable in Malta
for such individuals, even if remitted. Individuals who are both
resident and domiciled in Malta are generally taxed on their worldwide
income.
Tax treatment depends on individual circumstances, including the
rules of the applicant’s current country of residence and any applicable
double tax treaties.
Given the complexity of tax matters, we recommend consulting a licensed
tax advisor for personalised guidance. Should you require assistance,
we can facilitate an introduction to a qualified Maltese tax professional.
Q: Can family members be included in an application?
A: Family members may be included where the applicable
rules allow. This typically covers a spouse or partner, minor children
under 18 years of age, and financially dependent adult children under
the age of 29. The eligibility of each family member is confirmed
case by case during file preparation.
Q: Will my citizenship expire?
A: Maltese citizenship does not expire. However,
citizenship acquired by naturalisation may be revoked on the grounds
set out in the Maltese Citizenship Act (see the question on refusal
and revocation below). Children of Maltese citizens may acquire citizenship
by descent in accordance with the Act.
Q: What are the main stages of an application?
A: Applicants first apply for residence status
in Malta. Once the required period of residence has been met, the
citizenship eligibility application is filed together with the merit
proposal, and the authorities carry out a comprehensive background
check and due diligence.
If eligibility is approved, the
citizenship application is filed. Approved applicants take the oath
of allegiance and receive a Certificate of Naturalisation. Processing
times depend on the competent authorities and the circumstances
of each case.
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 range of professional
real estate services to buyers; please request our "Malta Real Estate
Services" brochure for details.
We work with licensed real
estate agencies and developers in Malta and can help you find a property
that meets any requirements applicable to your application. Not all
properties meet the applicable standards, and bringing a property
up to standard after it has been rented or bought can involve additional
cost.
Through our professional relationships in Malta we can assist with
identifying suitable properties, arranging property viewings, drafting
and reviewing legal contracts, and 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 finalise the transaction.
Q: Are there rules on selling property in Malta?
A: Any requirement to hold a property for a minimum
period depends on the residence programme or framework under which
it is held, and the tax treatment of a sale depends on individual
circumstances. We recommend confirming both with us and with a tax
adviser before selling.
Q: Do I need to invest in a Malta company and create
jobs to qualify for citizenship?
A:
No. The citizenship by merit framework does not require business
investment or job creation, and it does not set investment thresholds
or employment targets.
Contributions to Malta’s economy,
such as activities that create employment or support local enterprises
or charities, are one of several forms of contribution that the
competent authority may consider. Each proposal is assessed on its
merits within a discretionary framework.
Q: What is Malta's position on fintech / cryptocurrency
/ blockchain technology?
A: Malta
has a regulatory framework for financial services and digital assets,
supervised by the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA).
Under
the citizenship by merit framework, a proposed contribution in the
fintech sector is assessed in the same way as any other proposal:
individually and on its merits by the competent authority.
Our
affiliated professionals can advise on the regulatory requirements
for fintech ventures in Malta.
Please use our fintech contact form for further information.
Q: Does the Citizenship by Merit framework require
a Maltese language test?
A: There is no standard public language exam published
for CBM. However, demonstrating integration and engagement with
Malta is advisable. Requirements can evolve; we will brief you on
current practice during onboarding.
Q: Do I need to live in Malta before or after naturalisation?
A: Applicants are expected to demonstrate a genuine
link with Malta. The competent authority assesses this on the facts
of each case, which may include time spent in Malta, maintaining
a residence in Malta, and involvement in business, cultural, philanthropic
or community life. Supporting documentation, such as travel records
or evidence of residence and community involvement, may be requested.
We will advise you on the requirements that apply in your circumstances.
Q: What qualifies as “merit” under CBM?
A: Contributions may be cultural, scientific, economic,
philanthropic, or otherwise in Malta’s interest. Each case is assessed
holistically by the competent authority; there is no automatic right
to approval.
Q: What financial diligence is required (source of funds/wealth)?
A: Comprehensive AML/KYC is mandatory. You must
evidence lawful source of funds/wealth with audited statements,
bank letters, contracts, sale deeds, and similar documentation as
applicable.
Q: On what grounds can an application be refused or citizenship
revoked?
A: Material misrepresentation, adverse due-diligence
findings, national-security or public-policy concerns, or failure
to meet undertakings can lead to refusal or, post-grant, revocation
under law.
Q: Does Malta allow dual citizenship?
A: Malta permits dual and multiple citizenship.
Whether you may keep your present nationality depends on your home
country’s laws. Some countries do not permit dual citizenship and
may require you to renounce your original nationality before acquiring
another, so please verify this locally before applying.
Q: Can digital-asset wealth (crypto) support my application?
A: Digital-asset wealth can be considered if lawfully
acquired and well-documented. Expect enhanced evidence of origin
and regulated off-ramping through compliant institutions.
If you have any further questions about the citizenship by merit framework, please contact us in person, or by phone, Zoom, or email.
CBM Information Library
Further information on specific topics.
Eligibility & merit criteria
What counts as “merit,” the evidence expected, and how individual assessments work.
Application stages
From residence and due diligence to decision and the oath of allegiance.
Documents & due diligence
IDs, police certificates, source of funds and wealth, insurance, and common pitfalls.
Family members
Spouse or partner and dependent children: who may be included and on what basis.
Fees & tax overview
Why there is no fixed contribution amount, and the basics of Malta’s domicile and remittance tax rules.
Risks, refusals & revocation
Grounds for refusal or revocation and how to present a compliant file.
Sources & official information
- Maltese Citizenship Act: Chapter 188 of the Laws of Malta — legislation.mt.
- Malta residency: Residency Malta Agency — official authority.
- Malta citizenship: Komunità Malta — citizenship authority (for CBM and nationality matters).
Refer to current government circulars and legal notices; requirements can change. This page provides general information only and does not constitute legal or tax advice.
Support During and After the Application
Each client works with a dedicated manager, supported by a team across multiple time zones, who remains the point of contact during the application and afterwards. We work with clients from many countries and, through specialist partners, can also assist with practical matters related to living in Malta, such as property, banking and insurance, company or trust formation, schooling, and residence matters for close family members.
