Citizenship

Malta

Malta offers a Citizenship by Investment programme known as the Malta Individual Investor Programme (MIIP). This allows high-net-worth individuals and their families to obtain Maltese citizenship through economic contributions to the country. In 2020, the MIIP was replaced by the Malta Citizenship by Naturalisation for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment (MCNES). This offers a similar pathway to citizenship.

Key Features of Malta’s Citizenship by Investment Programme:

Investment Requirements:

  • Contribution to the National Development and Social Fund (NDSF): A non-refundable donation, typically €650,000 for the main applicant, €25,000 for a spouse and each minor child, and €50,000 for each dependent parent and unmarried adult child.
  • Real Estate: Purchase a property worth at least €700,000, or lease a property with an annual rent of at least €16,000, which must be held for a minimum of five years.
  • Government Bonds and Stocks: Investment of €150,000 in government-approved financial instruments for at least five years.


Residency Requirement:

  • To demonstrate a genuine link to Malta, applicants must have held residency status in Malta for at least 12 months before being granted citizenship.


Due Diligence Process:

Applicants undergo a rigorous due diligence and background check process to ensure they qualify as suitable candidates for citizenship.

  • Application Process:
  • Proof of Eligibility: Submit various documents proving eligibility, including a clean criminal record, proof of residential address, health insurance and a global health certificate.
  • Residence Permit: Obtain a Maltese residence permit during the 12-month residency period.
  • Contributions and Investments: Complete all necessary investments and contributions.

Oath of Allegiance: After fulfilling all requirements, take an Oath of Allegiance before receiving a Certificate of Naturalisation and becoming a Maltese citizen.

Benefits:

  • European Union Citizenship: As Malta is an EU member state, citizenship grants the right to live, work and study in any EU country.
  • Visa-Free Travel: Maltese citizenship allows visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 180 countries.
  • Quality of Life: Malta boasts a high quality of life, political stability and a favourable tax regime.
  • Security and Safety: Malta is one of the safest countries in the EU with a low crime rate.
  • Education and Healthcare: Access to high-quality education and healthcare systems.

 Family Inclusion:

  • Spouses, minor children, dependent unmarried adult children (up to 29 years), and dependent parents or grandparents (over 55 years) can be included in the application.

This pathway to citizenship is highly structured to ensure only reputable and financially sound individuals gain Maltese citizenship, contributing significantly to national development.

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