Malta Citizenship by Merit Program

What is Citizenship by Merit?

Citizenship by Merit refers to a legal process by which eligible individuals may acquire citizenship based on their demonstrated contributions to a country’s national interest - such as achievements in the arts, business, culture, healthcare, science, technology, sports, philanthropy, or job creation - rather than solely through financial investment. This pathway recognizes distinction, engagement, and sustained impact as qualifying factors for naturalization.

It is a globally recognized pathway for individuals seeking to obtain a second citizenship and access the benefits associated with it. In the case of Malta, the country’s merit-based naturalization program enables qualified applicants to obtain Maltese citizenship by making meaningful contributions to economic development and national advancement.

The Malta citizenship by merit program offers applicants an opportunity to receive Malta citizenship and the Malta passport through recognized achievements.
Applicants can become Maltese citizens after holding Malta residency status for at least 12 months.
Living in Malta year-round during residency or after receiving citizenship is not required. Instead, applicants can demonstrate a genuine link with the country through visits, property, business, community or philanthropic engagement. We’ll guide you on the best way to meet this requirement.
The program is designed to attract highly qualified individuals seeking European citizenship.
Successful applicants gain access to numerous benefits, including visa-free travel, free education and healthcare, and a strategic location within the European Union.
The Malta Citizenship by Merit Program is regulated by the Maltese government to ensure transparency and integrity.

Why Malta?

The Malta Citizenship by Merit Program stands out as an attractive option due to its numerous advantages and favorable conditions for qualified applicants. Malta, as an EU member state, offers a stable political environment, strong legal protections, and access to the European market.

Malta's reputation for excellence in financial services and regulatory standards further enhances the appeal of its citizenship program, attracting accomplished individuals and their families looking for a secure and reputable European destination.

Access to the European Union and Schengen Area, providing freedom of movement and economic opportunities across Europe.
Stable political and economic environment, offering security and peace of mind to applicants and their families.
Robust legal framework and regulatory system, ensuring transparency and investor protection.
Strategic location in the Mediterranean, with a thriving business landscape and attractive lifestyle.
Recognition and acceptance of Maltese citizenship globally, enhancing international mobility and business prospects.
Builds on a decade-long track record and reflects years of trusted and transparent governance.

What are the Benefits of Obtaining Malta Citizenship by Merit?

Obtaining Malta citizenship through merit offers a range of benefits that enhance personal, professional, and financial opportunities for individuals and their families. These benefits extend beyond the borders of Malta and provide access to global advantages.

European Union Membership: Acquiring Maltese citizenship grants the right to live, work, and study in any EU member state.
Visa-free Access: Enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry to over 180 countries worldwide, facilitating global travel and business activities.
Full EU Rights: Benefit from the same rights as EU citizens, including access to healthcare, education, and social services.
Political Stability: Malta's stable democracy and business-friendly environment provide a secure foundation for personal and financial growth.
Quality of Life: Experience a high standard of living, with access to world-class healthcare, education, and cultural amenities.
Tax Advantages: Malta offers attractive tax incentives, including low tax rates, double taxation treaties, and wealth management opportunities.
Real Estate Investment: Opportunity to invest in Malta's booming real estate market, with potential for capital appreciation and rental income.
Global Mobility: Enjoy the flexibility to travel and conduct business globally without visa restrictions.
Family Security: Provide a secure future for your family, including free higher education, free healthcare, and lifestyle choices.
Dual Citizenship: Gain the freedom and flexibility of holding dual citizenship, enhancing your global footprint and investment options.

Malta Citizenship Program Application Requirements

Who can Apply for Malta Citizenship by Merit?

Malta’s Citizenship by Merit pathway recognizes eligible individuals who demonstrate outstanding personal, professional, or philanthropic contributions aligned with Malta’s national priorities. Applicants must meet specific criteria reflecting character, capability, and intent to contribute meaningfully to Maltese society.

To begin, you can complete our Malta Citizenship by Merit Qualification Assessment Form to indicate the categories you believe you qualify under.

Distinguished Individuals: Candidates with notable accomplishments in the arts, business, science, sports, culture, or public service are encouraged to apply.
Entrepreneurs, Founders, and Changemakers: Those driving innovation or creating strategic value through enterprise, technology, thought leadership, or social impact may qualify.
Family Members: The framework allows for inclusion of spouses, children, and dependent relatives under a unified merit-based application.

What Are the Eligibility Requirements for Malta Citizenship by Merit?

Eligibility for Malta’s citizenship-by-merit framework centers on an applicant’s ability to demonstrate authentic engagement, personal integrity, and sustained contributions to Malta’s public, cultural, or economic life. The program prioritizes excellence, alignment with national interest, and adherence to rigorous standards.

To explore your potential eligibility, feel free to complete our Merit-Based Citizenship Qualification Form, where you can indicate the areas in which you believe your profile may be eligible.

The following criteria outline the key dimensions assessed under Malta’s Citizenship by Merit framework:

Character & Integrity: Applicants must uphold a clean background, good moral standing, and respect for Maltese laws and democratic values.
Civic Alignment: Candidates should show meaningful alignment with Malta’s strategic goals - such as innovation, sustainability, diplomacy, or social advancement.
Track Record of Impact: Proven achievements in professional, philanthropic, creative, or community fields that demonstrate the potential for national benefit.
Cultural & Social Engagement: A willingness and ability to integrate into Maltese society, including active participation in local, cultural, or public service initiatives.
Residency Connection: Demonstrated commitment to Malta through as through visits, property, business, community or philanthropic engagement. We’ll guide you on the best way to meet this requirement.

Malta Citizenship by Merit Application Process

How to Apply for the Malta Citizenship by Merit Program?

The application process for Malta Citizenship by Merit involves clear stages from screening and residency through eligibility, merit review, decision, oath/pledge, and passport issuance.

Stage 0 — Citizenship Proposal Outline Preparation and Assessment
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 prepare a proposal outline that matches your profile with Malta’s strategic interests, review your planned contributions, and determine the next steps together.
Targeted result: Completed initial due-diligence, strength assessment of contribution, recommended actions.
Indicative timing: ~1 week.
Stage 1 — Malta Residency Application
Preparation and filing of the mandatory temporary residency application: forms, document collation, and coordination of your biometrics appointment with the Maltese authorities.
Targeted result: Malta residency cards (Schengen travel enablement) and CBM eligibility platform.
Indicative timing: 2–3 months.
Stage 2 — Citizenship Proposal Preparation
We 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 quick verification.
Targeted result: Complete merit proposal ready for submission.
Indicative timing: Varies by proposal complexity.
Stage 3 — Citizenship Eligibility Application
The most technical step: we prepare and file the formal eligibility application. Authorities run extensive multi-jurisdiction due-diligence (identity, integrity, source of funds/wealth). We manage RFIs and top-ups.
Targeted result: Eligibility approval under CBM.
Indicative timing: ~4–6 months.
Stage 4 — Malta Citizenship Application
Following eligibility approval, we finalize and file the citizenship application, schedule the oath/pledge, and coordinate issuance of your Certificate of Naturalization and passport.
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 the authority may require.
Targeted result: Successful implementation and any required compliance confirmations.
Indicative timing: As needed.

Notes: Timeframes are indicative and depend on document readiness, third-party lead times, and authority workload.

What are the costs required for Malta Citizenship by Merit?

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, or complete our Malta CBM qualification assessment form.

Total legal fees depend on the complexity of your case and the number of family members to be included. Please contact us for a custom quotation.

Malta Citizenship by Merit Benefits

Is Malta Citizenship by Merit a Good Investment?

Malta Citizenship by Merit offers substantial benefits and potential returns, making it an attractive option. Applicants can benefit from Malta's strategic location, EU membership privileges, global mobility, tax advantages, and asset diversification opportunities. These factors contribute to the program's appeal as a viable choice for individuals seeking a second (or alternate) citizenship and long-term financial growth.

Strategic Location: Benefit from Malta's strategic position in Europe, offering access to diverse markets and business opportunities.
EU Membership: Gain full rights and privileges as an EU citizen, including free movement, residence, and employment across EU member states.
Global Mobility: Enjoy visa-free travel to numerous countries worldwide, facilitating international business and leisure travel.
Tax Advantages: Leverage Malta's favorable tax regime, with incentives for investors, entrepreneurs, and high net worth individuals.
Asset Diversification: Diversify your investment portfolio with real estate, bonds, and other assets in a stable and growing economy.

How Easy is it to Get Malta Citizenship by Merit?

For eligible applicants, Malta’s Citizenship by Merit program offers a clear and efficiently managed pathway to naturalization. While the process is rigorous, it is designed to be navigable with professional guidance, robust support systems, and full transparency, ensuring qualified individuals can advance with confidence.

Tailored Expert Support: Government-authorized professionals provide dedicated guidance on merit criteria, documentation, and strategic positioning.
Transparent Standards: Clearly defined eligibility benchmarks and procedural steps help applicants understand and meet merit-based requirements.
End-to-End Coordination: From background checks to residency confirmation, applicants benefit from comprehensive oversight and compliance assistance.
Ethical & Regulated: The pathway is grounded in Malta’s commitment to integrity, public benefit, and international norms of naturalization.

How expensive is the Malta Citizenship by Merit program?

While Malta’s Citizenship by Merit program prioritizes personal contribution and impact over financial transactions, applicants should be prepared for administrative and procedural costs associated with the application process. These include legal, governmental, and residency-related expenses. Understanding these financial commitments and planning accordingly is key to a smooth application experience.

Government & Administrative Fees: Cover official processing costs, due diligence assessments, and compliance-related expenses.
Legal Representation: Engage licensed professionals for eligibility evaluation, documentation, and procedural guidance.
Residency & Integration Costs: Depending on personal circumstances, budget for residency establishment, health insurance, and cultural engagement activities.
Family Inclusion: Fees may vary depending on the number and age of dependents included in the application.
Quotation & Advisory: Contact our team for a personalized overview of expected costs based on your profile and goals.

What is the 183 Tax Rule for Malta Citizenship?

The 183-day rule refers to the residency requirement for tax purposes. This rule stipulates that individuals who reside in Malta for more than 183 days (6 months per calendar year) become tax residents in Malta. However, there is no requirement to reside in Malta for 183 days, either during the residency stage or after receiving citizenship.

In other words, the 183 day rule does not automatically apply upon receiving Malta citizenship or residency. In general, Malta taxation is only based on domicile (your permanent home) or the intention to reside in Malta, and not on residency or citizenship status.

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 short, 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.

183-day Rule: Refers to the maximum number of days an individual can be physically present in a country before they become considered a tax resident in that country.
Malta Citizenship by Merit Program and Taxation: The 183-day rule does not directly apply to determining tax residency in Malta because obtaining Maltese citizenship alone does not automatically make the individual a Maltese tax resident.
Malta Taxation Based on Domicile: Non-domicile residents and citizens pay tax 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 Malta Tax Considerations: There are no inheritance or death taxes, no estate duty, no net worth or wealth taxes, no municipal taxes, and no 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.

MALTA CITIZENSHIP BY MERIT

Comprehensive Guide to Malta Citizenship by Merit - Everything You Need to Know