Malta citizenship by merit:

a selective pathway built on contribution

Malta’s Citizenship by Merit framework recognises individuals whose expertise, innovation, or service align with the country’s national interests. It replaces the previous transactional model with a merit-based approach, granting Maltese and European Union citizenship to qualified applicants who contribute to Malta’s Vision 2050 priorities.

This framework reflects Malta’s commitment to progress through partnership, welcoming those who make meaningful contributions to research, sustainability, and national development.

Who can be included?

Applicants may include immediate family members, extending long-term stability and opportunity:

Spouse or civil partner.
Unmarried dependent children under 29.
Dependent children of any age with disabilities.

Key advantages:
Why Malta?

EU citizenship – Live, work, and study anywhere within the European Union and Switzerland.
Global mobility – Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 185 countries, including the USA.
Dual citizenship – Malta permits dual nationality.
Family legacy – Citizenship is permanent and transferable to future generations.
Quality of life – Stable economy, sound governance, and high safety standards.
Central location – A Mediterranean hub connecting Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.

What about taxes?

Acquiring citizenship does not automatically create tax residency. Residency is determined separately by physical presence and domicile.

Malta maintains a transparent and EU-aligned financial system, offering:

No inheritance or wealth taxes.
A network of double taxation treaties.
A stable and regulated business environment.

How does it work?

The Citizenship by Merit framework operates under Article 10(9) of the Maltese Citizenship Act (CAP.188) and Legal Notice 159 of 2025. All applications undergo comprehensive due diligence and government evaluation.

1

Pre-clearance and onboarding – Initial due diligence and eligibility review.

2

Residence application – Establishing residence in Malta.

3

Project proposal submission – Participation in a recognised national initiative.

4

Government review and decision – Evaluation and approval in principle.

5

Naturalisation and oath – Citizenship granted upon completion of approved commitments

Estimated timeline: approximately 18 months from onboarding to naturalisation.

Citizenship and EU access

Approved applicants receive Maltese citizenship, gaining all rights of an EU citizen including freedom of movement, settlement, and employment across all EU member states and Switzerland.

Participate in Malta’s future

The Malta Citizenship by Merit framework represents a new direction in global mobility rewarding contribution, expertise, and shared progress. It provides qualified individuals the opportunity to align their skills and innovation with Malta’s national goals while gaining European citizenship.

Book a private consultation to learn more about eligibility and process requirements.

Meaningful contribution to Malta’s future

Applicants participate in initiatives of national importance, directly supporting Malta’s long-term goals.

Each proposal is individually reviewed to ensure measurable impact.

Advancing research, sustainability, or innovation.

Supporting education, healthcare, or cultural development.

Creating employment or business ventures that foster technology and skills growth.

Developing environmental or infrastructure projects that strengthen Malta’s resilience.