Have you ever been dreaming about becoming a citizen of a beautiful country in the European Union with a warm climate, the best healthcare system in the world, and the possibility to travel freely to more than 180 countries? Then Malta might be a golden opportunity for you. The blog provides you with all the necessary information on living in Malta, its community, or on the possibilities of obtaining EU citizenship, speaking out of real experience, and correct legal ideas.
Howdy, I am Clara Abela. I lived fifteen years in Malta and after learning the laws, meeting the requirements, and assimilating into the society, I am now a Maltese citizen officially.
In this blog, I will take you through everything you need to know as a person who wants to get citizenship of Malta; whether you are about to move here or already residing in this country or you want to invest in this country.
What Is Citizenship by Naturalization in Malta?
In case you have resided legally in Malta for 5 years, you are entitled to be granted citizenship through naturalization. It is the path I have chosen personally and it is the best one to choose by people who wish to become a completely integrated member of the Maltese society.
Who Can Apply for Naturalization?
To naturalize and obtain the citizenship of Malta, the following is what you have to fulfill:
- The possession of proven legal residence in Malta for at least 5 years
- Clean criminal history both at home country and abroad
- Good reputation that is, good conduct and integration into the society
- Basic knowledge of English or Maltese (you don’t need to be fluent, but understanding helps)
- Financial independence – you shouldn’t rely on public funds or assistance
This is the route of the people who consider Malta more than a stop-over. Your opportunity to make it an official call comes in case you feel serious about Malta being your home.
Required Documents for Your Application
This is what I sent in when I applied so you will know what to expect:
- A valid Maltese residence permit
- Passport copies
- Police clearance certificates
- Proof of employment or business activity
- Language proficiency certificate
My Experience with Naturalization
I won’t lie, the process involves a good deal of paperwork and waiting. But if you genuinely plan to build your life in Malta, it’s the most sustainable and respected route to citizenship. Be patient, stay organized, and make sure your records are spotless.
Citizenship by Investment (CES): Malta’s Golden Passport Program
In case you have the funds at hand and you want a quicker path, you can buy Malta Citizenship by Naturalization under the exceptional services by direct investment program or CES. It has been colloquially called the golden passport scheme.
It is the best path to take in case you wish to accelerate your citizenship process by contributing much to the economy.
Legal Framework
The CES program came into existence with Legal Notice 437 of 2020. It grants the right to apply for Maltese citizenship to eligible applicants upon payment of specified amounts of investment of 12 or 36 months of residence.
Option A: Fast-Track Route (12 Months)
In case you want to get a citizenship within one year, then the following are the requirements:
- Government contribution: €750,000 (non-refundable)
- Property requirement:
- Purchase real estate of at least 700, 000Euro
- Property lease (rent must be 16,000 or more a year).
- Donation: €10,000 to a registered Maltese NGO
Option B: Standard Route (36 Months)
- Government contribution: €600,000 (non-refundable)
- Property requirement: Same as the fast-track option
- Donation: Same €10,000 contribution to an NGO
Who Can Be Included in the Application?
You are not even restricted to apply on behalf of someone. Among the family members, it is possible to consider the following:
- Spouse or partner
- Children under 18
- Dependent adult children up to age 29 (if financially dependent and unmarried)
- Dependent parents or grandparents over the age of 55
Important Considerations
- Due diligence is carried out in the investment path. The screening is all serious, and background checks together with interviews and verification of documents.
- This path exempts you of visa to 180+ countries, such as the EU Schengen Zone, the UK, etc.
Citizenship by Descent: Born with Maltese Roots?
In the case you are fortunate to have the Maltese blood in your veins, you might have already got a right to get citizenship.
Who Qualifies?
You can apply to become a Maltese citizen by descent when:
- One of the parents was born in Malta and is (or was) a Malta citizen.
- You may be able to show that one or even more distant relations such as Grandparent or even great-grandparent was born in Malta.
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How to Get Malta Citizenship
Step 1: Choose Your Path to Citizenship
There are three official routes in Malta. Choose the one of which you belong to:
- Naturalization – For those living legally in Malta for 5+ years
- Investment (CES Program) – For high-net-worth individuals seeking a faster option
- Descent – If you have Maltese parents or grandparents
Step 2: Gather and Submit Documents
Depending on the route you will need:
- Passport & ID copies
- Residence permit
- Police clearance
- Financial proof
- Property or descent documents
- Language or integration proof (for naturalization)
Step 3: Apply and Wait for Approval
Submit your application either with Identity Malta or with a government-approved agent. Timelines vary:
- Naturalization: 18–24 months
- Investment: 12 or 36 months
- Descent: 6–12 months
When it is accepted, you will get your certificate of Maltese citizenship.
Step 4: Apply for Your Maltese Passport
Upon acceptance, you should apply to a Maltese passport:
- A visa-free entry to 180+ countries
- The freedom to live, and work in the EU
- A secure, peaceful Mediterranean life
- Getting access to the best medical and school services
Which Route Should You Choose?
Go for Naturalization if
- You intend to stay in Malta permanently
- You would prefer to have a cheaper albeit sluggish path
- You enjoy becoming part of the local community
Choose CES (Investment) if
- You desire expeditious citizenship with fiscal resources
- Seeking are international mobility and commercial flexibility
- You want to include multiple family members in your application
Choose Citizenship by Descent if
- You recorded the Maltese ancestry
- You desire the most convenient and cheapest way
- You are trying to get yours back
FAQs
How can you get Malta citizenship?
It is possible to get it through naturalization (5+ years of residency), investment (CES program), or descent (Maltese ancestry). My own I obtained through naturalization in Malta after a residence of 5 years.
How much does Malta citizenship cost?
- Naturalization: Minimal fees
- Investment: From €600,000 to €750,000
- Descent: The descent tends to be low, only document processing
How long does it take?
- Naturalization: ~5–6 years
- Investment: 12 or 36 months
- Descent: A few months with verified lineage
Can you buy Malta citizenship?
Not exactly. The person must live in Malta and pass severe investment and background checks utilizing the CES program.
Can I include my family?
Yes! You can apply through the investment route with your spouse, children, and even with your own parents/grandparents as dependent people.
Does Malta allow dual citizenship?
Yes. You are also not forced to lose your first nationality- except when your motherland does not allow dual citizenship.
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Final Words
Obtaining the citizenship of Malta is not only a legal procedure but it is a chance of life. Interested in citizenship by naturalisation, intend to invest or entitled by descent, Malta has one of the most powerful and the most rewarding routes to an EU passport.
I have fifteen years of experience of life in Malta, and after living fifteen years there, I managed to become a citizen of Malta and everything I described in this guide is a reflection of my real experience.
Acquisition of citizenship by a citizen in Malta has the potential of:
- Visa free travel in more than 180 countries
- Freedom to Live, work or study any where in the EU
- Quality medical and educational services
- A steady tranquil in the Mediterranean life
- Business and tax potentials in EU zone
However, all this is impossible until you make the initial step.
