Malta

Malta, officially known as the Republic of Malta, is a small archipelago located in the Mediterranean Sea, east of Tunisia and about 100 km south of Sicily, Italy. It is one of Europe’s smallest countries, with an area of 316 km², roughly twice the size of Washington, DC, and about one-eighth the size of Luxembourg.

Malta’s capital city is Valletta, and the official languages are Maltese and English. The nation is renowned as a tourist destination, prized for its warm climate, stunning landscapes, ancient temples (including the Megalithic Temples of Malta), and the medieval capital city.

Historically, Malta has always held significant strategic value in the Mediterranean region. It became a member of the European Union in May 2004. The island was acquired by Great Britain in the early 19th century and supported the UK through both World Wars. It gained independence in 1964, remained in the Commonwealth, and became a republic on 13 December 1974. Over the past 15 years, Malta has evolved into a critical freight transshipment point, a financial center, and a popular tourist destination.

Is Malta offering any residency or citizenship program through an investment pathway?

Yes, it offers two popular programs, Residency by Investment, known as Malta Permanent Residence Program (MPRP), and Citizenship by Investment, known as Naturalization for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment.

Malta Residency by investment

The Malta Permanent Residence Program (MPRP) offers a clear and efficient pathway to residency via property investment and government contributions. With an approximate processing time of 4 to 6 months for complete and accurate applications, the Program provides significant benefits for those seeking a second residence in Malta.

What are the advantages of the Malta Residency by Investment Program?

Participants in this program enjoy a variety of benefits:

• Gain the right to establish a permanent residency in Malta.
• Are afforded visa-free travel within the Schengen area, up to 90 days in any 180 days.
• Have access to Malta’s reasonably priced real estate market.
• Can incorporate up to four generations in a single application.

How can investors qualify for Malta Golden Visa?

The candidates need to:

• Apply through a Licensed Agent.
• Pay an administrative fee of €40,000, which is non-refundable.
• Either lease a property for at least €10,000 in the South of Malta/Gozo or €12,000 elsewhere in Malta or buy a property valued at least €300,000 in the South of Malta/Gozo or €350,000 elsewhere in Malta.
• Contribute €28,000 to the Government if buying a property or €58,000 if leasing.
• Pay an additional €7,500 for every adult dependent other than the spouse.
• Maintain ownership or lease of the qualifying property for a minimum of 5 years, after which a residential address is mandatory.
• Donate €2,000 to a Maltese NGO registered with the Commissioner of Voluntary Organizations, engaged in philanthropic, cultural, scientific, artistic, sports, or animal welfare activities.
• Possess a valid travel document.
• Secure a health insurance policy that covers all risks across Malta.
• Obtain travel insurance when travelling within the Schengen area.

Malta Citizenship by investment

How does Malta’s citizenship by investment program work?

Malta Naturalization for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment is a citizenship by investment program highly regarded for its stringent due diligence processes. As the program offers successful applicants access to the EU Schengen Area, Malta maintains a cautious and comprehensive approach to assessing applications.

The Maltese authorities also use an ‘Internal Risk Matrix’ to assess the risk associated with each applicant, including checks on whether the applicants are Politically Exposed Persons (PEPs) or included on sanctions and watchlists.

Malta’s thorough approach to the Naturalization by Direct Investment application process, including the use of the Internal Risk Matrix, has resulted in it being the only program of its kind approved by the European Commission. Despite the rigour of the application process, prospective applicants should not be discouraged but rather ensure transparency with their legal counsel.

Which entity is responsible for conducting the due diligence process for applicants seeking a Maltese passport?

The Community Malta Agency, a governmental body, was established under the Community Malta Agency (Establishment) Order. It oversees all issues related to Maltese citizenship. This includes the acceptance and processing of applications for acquiring Maltese citizenship through various means such as birth, registration, long-term residence, exceptional merit services, and direct investment in Malta.

Additionally, the Agency performs a thorough due diligence review of every application and provides recommendations to the Government on granting citizenship.

What are the eligibility Criteria for Malta Citizenship by Investment program?

The Malta citizenship by investment program is managed by the Community Malta Agency. According to this governmental entity, the principal applicant must meet the following prerequisites:

• Applicants should be at least 18 years old.
• A contribution of €600,000 is required if the applicant has resided in Malta for 36 months, while a contribution of €750,000 is necessary for those residing for 12 months.
• Purchasing a residential property in Malta valued at €700,000 is necessary, with the stipulation that it must be held for a minimum of five years. Alternatively, one can rent a property with an annual rental cost of €16,000.
• A donation of €10,000 must be made to a Community Malta Agency-approved organization or to a recognized NGO engaged in sports, culture, science, philanthropy, animal welfare, or arts.
• Applicants must possess a valid Malta Golden Visa, which can be obtained when purchasing property in Malta and includes an e-ID card and a Malta identification certificate.
• Applicants and their family members must be in good health.
• It’s crucial to remember that the purchased property must not be sold for at least five years.

In the following section, we aim to address some commonly asked queries regarding Maltese citizenship. From the eligibility criteria to the application process, investment requirements, and other relevant details, we’ll provide answers to help you better understand the pathway to becoming a Maltese citizen. Whether you’re curious about dual citizenship, the timeline for obtaining a passport, or the potential for extending citizenship to future children, read on as we delve into these frequently asked questions about Maltese citizenship.

Does Malta disclose the names of naturalized citizens?

Yes, your name will be publicly accessible as Malta publishes the names of new citizens in the Government Gazette annually.

What is the minimum duration to attain Maltese citizenship?

The minimum duration is 12 months, although it typically takes around 14 months to receive a Maltese passport.

When am I required to make the investment?

You’re only obligated to make the full investment after clearing the due diligence stage of the application process.

Is it necessary to visit Malta to secure citizenship?

You must provide Malta with your biometric data (such as fingerprints), so you’ll need to visit either Malta or one of its international embassies to apply for the Maltese Citizenship by Investment program.

Can I extend Maltese citizenship to my future children?

Yes, you have the ability to transfer your citizenship to your newborn children.

Is proficiency in a particular language necessary?

No, there’s no need to pass any language proficiency tests to qualify for Maltese citizenship.

Does Malta permit dual citizenship?

Yes, Malta legally allows dual citizenship. You can maintain multiple citizenships upon receiving your Maltese passport. However, it’s important to note that your original country may not permit dual citizenship.

For further information or assistance with a Maltese Residency or Citizenship Through Investment, please reach out to our team, who will guide you through each step of the process.