Callback
Contact
+1 786 233 6668
Malta offers a citizenship by merit route for individuals whose exceptional service, contributions, or talents in fields such as science, technology, entrepreneurship, philanthropy, sport, culture, or the arts are of extraordinary national or humanitarian value.
Candidates who provide an exceptional service, make outstanding contributions to Malta or to humanity at large, or whose naturalization is deemed to be of extraordinary national interest may qualify for Maltese citizenship on the basis of merit.
Enquiry
FACTSHEET
An exceptional service or contribution to Malta or humanity, or a naturalization granted in recognition of extraordinary interest to Malta
An attractive place to live or own a second home in, strategically located, with excellent air links
The Malta citizenship by merit route recognizes 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.
To qualify, candidates must meet at least one of the following criteria:
Eligible fields of service, contribution, or interest include:
In addition, candidates must demonstrate adequate knowledge of either Maltese or English to ensure successful integration and effective communication within the country.
The first step in the citizenship by merit process is the submission of a comprehensive overview outlining the candidate’s achievements, a detailed description of the exceptional service or contribution, and a clear plan for how the candidate intends to continue contributing to the Republic of Malta. If approved, an application for naturalization may then be filed. Final approval by the Minister results in the granting of Maltese citizenship.
Citizenship by merit applications demand specialization beyond standard investment migration protocols. Henley & Partners offers expert guidance in navigating this complex, tailor-made, and time-consuming process. We work closely with our clients to assess and demonstrate their individual profiles and accomplishments. We develop a comprehensive and individual proposal of what clients intend to contribute to the Republic of Malta, so they meet the merit-based citizenship criteria.
There are no restrictions on dual citizenship in Malta.
Malta’s citizenship by merit route rewards individuals whose exceptional achievements or contributions create lasting value. Eligible candidates and their families may qualify through investment, philanthropy, or distinguished accomplishments in fields such as science, technology, sport, entrepreneurship, or the arts, as well as initiatives that generate jobs or social impact. Citizenship may also be granted to those whose talents or expertise serve Malta’s national interests and priorities.
Candidates may qualify if they have delivered exceptional service to Malta or humanity, made notable contributions such as investment, philanthropy, or job creation, or if they possess skills and expertise that are considered critical to Malta’s long-term priorities.
The benefits of Maltese citizenship include access to high-quality education in the European Union and opportunities in a reputable financial and business hub, as well as visa-free or visa-on-arrival travel to nearly 190 destinations worldwide. Malta also allows candidates to include their spouse, de facto partner, and dependent children up until the age of 29 (if they are fully financially dependent on the main candidate) in the application, while offering the possibility of living in or owning a second home in a strategically located country with excellent air links.
Unlike standard investment migration programs, there is no fixed minimum investment requirement. Malta’s citizenship by merit route rewards individuals whose exceptional achievements or contributions create lasting value for Malta or humanity.
The process is specialized and more complex than typical citizenship by investment routes. It involves a thorough review of the candidate’s achievements, proposed contributions, and ministerial approval, so the timeframe varies depending on the profile and circumstances of each case.
Yes, candidates can include their spouse or de facto partner as well as dependent children up until the age of 29 (if they are fully financially dependent on the main candidate) in their application, making it a family-friendly route to citizenship.
Yes. Malta imposes no restrictions on dual citizenship. As long as their country of origin also allows it, candidates can hold Maltese citizenship without giving up their existing nationality.
Candidates need to submit a detailed proposal with an overview of their achievements, evidence of exceptional service or contributions, and a clear plan for how they will continue to contribute to Malta. These documents form the foundation of the application and demonstrate alignment with the merit-based criteria.
The process begins with the submission of a detailed proposal outlining the candidate’s achievements, contributions, and future intentions. If this is approved, a formal application for naturalization can be made. The final decision rests with the Minister, who grants citizenship based on the overall merit of the case.
To view other European citizenship by investment options, click here.
Should you have any questions, or if you would like a detailed breakdown of the exact costs for your family, kindly contact us and we will be delighted to help you.
