Malta Citizenship by Investment

Malta Citizenship by Investment

For much of the last decade, Malta was recognised for operating one of the world’s leading citizenship by investment programmes. Through the Individual Investor Programme (IIP) launched in 2014 and later the Exceptional Investor Naturalisation (EIN) route, applicants could acquire Maltese citizenship by making prescribed financial contributions. These typically included:

• A non-refundable contribution to the National Development and Social Fund.
• A property purchase or long-term lease in Malta.
• An investment in eligible securities.

Families meeting these financial thresholds, alongside strict due diligence checks, could qualify for naturalisation and obtain Maltese passports within a defined timeframe.

From Citizenship by Investment to Merit-Based Naturalisation

As scrutiny from EU institutions increased, Malta recognised the need to evolve its model. The focus shifted away from a financially transactional approach towards a framework that evaluates applicants on a broader set of merits. The European Commission had repeatedly signalled concerns over investor-based nationality, prompting Malta to align its approach with EU expectations on sovereignty and nationality law.

Introduction of the Citizenship by Merit Rules

In July 2025, amendments to the Maltese Citizenship Act formally replaced the investor-based route with the Citizenship by Merit rules. These rules authorise the Minister to grant Maltese citizenship on the basis of exceptional merit or contribution, assessed on a discretionary basis and supported by rigorous due diligence.

Instead of requiring fixed financial investments, the new rules allow Malta to consider contributions such as scientific achievements, cultural or philanthropic efforts, entrepreneurial activity, or other endeavours that advance the national interest.

A Discretionary Citizenship Framework

Unlike the prescriptive investment thresholds under the earlier schemes, the merit-based system is entirely discretionary. There is no automatic entitlement. Citizenship may only be conferred where the Minister is satisfied that the applicant’s merit or contribution justifies naturalisation. This reinforces Malta’s sovereign authority over nationality while satisfying European concerns over the prior model.

Why Maltese Citizenship Matters for Global Families

For international families accustomed to investment-linked citizenship, Malta’s message is clear: the path to naturalisation remains open, but under a redefined merit-based structure. Applicants must be prepared for comprehensive due diligence and should be ready to evidence contributions that are meaningful, reputable, and aligned with Malta’s national values.

Malta Citizenship FAQs

Q: Is Citizenship by Investment still available in Malta?
No. Malta no longer offers citizenship through prescribed financial investments. Since July 2025, naturalisation is available under the Citizenship by Merit rules within the Maltese Citizenship Act.

Q: What are the Citizenship by Merit rules?
These rules allow the Minister to grant Maltese citizenship to individuals who demonstrate exceptional merit or contribution to Malta, subject to full due diligence and national security checks.

Q: What types of contributions qualify as “merit”?
Merit can include significant economic initiatives, scientific or cultural achievements, philanthropic work, entrepreneurial activity, or other endeavours that provide real value to Malta.

Q: Is there a minimum investment requirement under the new rules?
No. Unlike the previous investment-linked route, there is no fixed monetary threshold. Eligibility depends on the applicant’s overall merit and contribution, assessed case-by-case.

Q: What documents are required for an application under the Citizenship by Merit rules?
Applicants must provide a comprehensive file that evidences their merit, along with robust compliance documentation including source of wealth, source of funds, reputation checks, and supporting records relevant to their contribution.

How Our Malta Immigration Advisors Can Help

Our award-winning Immigration & Global Mobility Law team is Malta’s oldest specialised immigration practice. We have successfully represented global investors, entrepreneurs, and HNW families in securing residence and citizenship in Malta. Today, we continue to advise on the Citizenship by Merit rules, guiding clients in preparing applications that best reflect their merits and contributions to Malta.

Our Citizenship Services

Our award-winning Immigration & Global Mobility Advisory team guides international families through Malta’s evolving residence and citizenship framework. We offer clear advice on your eligibility and the most suitable path under the Citizenship by Merit rules or other residence options.

Our support includes:

• Advice on available options to achieve your specific objectives.
• Assessment of your eligibility for the preferred citizenship route.
• Pre-immigration tax planning tailored to your personal and family circumstances.
• Preparation and vetting of all citizenship documentation.
• Coordination of tax advice with advisors and notaries as required.
• 360-degree concierge services covering residency, relocation, property search, and property rental or purchase.

This combination of strategic planning, technical expertise, and practical support ensures a seamless and compliant process from start to finish.