MALTA

(Citizenship by Naturalization for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment)

VISA FREE DESTINATIONS:

183 PASSPORT INDEX RANK:

6th

OVERVIEW:

The Citizenship by Naturalisation for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment was officially repealed following a July 2025 legislative reform and a ruling by the European Court of Justice. It has been replaced by a new, more stringent Citizenship by Merit framework.

The Malta citizenship by merit route recognises extraordinary achievements and outstanding contributions as a basis for citizenship. Individuals who demonstrate exceptional value through service or contributions to Malta, including investment, philanthropy, or major achievements in fields such as science, sport, technology, entrepreneurship, or the arts, as well as initiatives that create jobs, opportunities, or social impact, may qualify together with their families. Citizenship may also be granted to those whose skills, talents, or expertise are deemed to be of significant national interest, advancing Malta’s priorities and benefiting the country.

PROCEDURE:

Submitting a thorough summary of the candidate’s accomplishments, a thorough account of the outstanding service or contribution, and a clear plan outlining the candidate’s future contributions to the Republic of Malta are the first steps in the citizenship by merit process. An application for naturalisation may thereafter be submitted if it is accepted. Maltese citizenship is granted with the Minister’s final approval.

Applications for citizenship by merit require expertise beyond the norms of investment migration. Henley & Partners provides professional assistance in managing this intricate, customised, and time-consuming procedure. We collaborate closely with our clients to evaluate and showcase their unique profiles and achievements. In order for clients to achieve the requirements for merit-based citizenship, we create a thorough and customised proposal outlining their intended contributions to the Republic of Malta.

MINIMUM CAPITAL REQUIREMENT:

An investment of EUR 738,000 for a minimum residence period of 36 months or EUR 888,000 for a minimum of 12 months (including property lease)

MAIN APPLICANT REQUIREMENTS:

Malta’s Merit-Based Citizenship Requirements.

Candidates must fulfil at least one of the following requirements to be eligible:

Deliver a remarkable service to humanity in Malta: demonstrated by significant accomplishments or contributions in a particular subject.
Make a significant contribution to humanity or Malta: such as philanthropy, investment, or programs that provide jobs and opportunity
Be of Malta’s national interest: possess abilities, traits, aptitudes, or knowledge deemed essential to furthering Malta’s long-term goals and national priorities

Service, contribution, or interest areas that qualify include:

Research and science
Athletics and sports
Culture and the arts
Commerce and charity
Innovation and technology
Other domains where knowledge or clout benefits Malta

Additionally, candidates must demonstrate sufficient knowledge of either Maltese or English to ensure successful integration and effective communication within the country.

PROCESSING TIME:

12-18 months

KEY BENEFITS:

Visa-free or visa-on-arrival travel to over 180 destinations
Once the residence requirement has been fulfilled and the citizenship eligibility application has been approved, successful applicants may apply for Maltese citizenship.
A transparent and reputable financial center and a jurisdiction for international business.
Opportunity to include a spouse, children, parents, and grandparents in the main application
The world’s strictest due diligence standards and vetting of applicants
An attractive place to live or own a second home in, strategically located, with excellent air links.

MALTA

MALTA

(Citizenship by Naturalization for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment)

VISA FREE DESTINATIONS:

183

PASSPORT INDEX RANK:

6th

OVERVIEW:

PROCEDURE:

MINIMUM CAPITAL REQUIREMENT:

MAIN APPLICANT REQUIREMENTS:

PROCESSING TIME:

KEY BENEFITS:

Preserving Your Family, Wealth and Legacy