Malta Citizenship by Naturalisation For Exceptional Services by Direct Investment
Malta offers a unique opportunity for individuals seeking citizenship through investment. As a member of the European Union, obtaining a Malta Passport can open doors to numerous advantages. This includes access to over 190 visa-free destinations, as well as the ability to live, work, study and retire in any of the 28 EU countries. The process of acquiring Maltese citizenship by naturalisation through investment, while structured and regulated, is an attractive option for many high-net-worth individuals. This article aims to clarify the key aspects of the programme and guide you through the necessary steps.
What is Maltese Citizenship by Naturalisation for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment?
The Malta Citizenship by Naturalisation for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment process is a pathway for non-EU nationals to obtain citizenship after making a significant contribution to Malta’s economy. This is not merely a residency programme; successful applicants are granted full citizenship and, with it, a Maltese Passport. The programme is governed by strict regulations to ensure that applicants meet the necessary legal, financial, and due diligence requirements.
It is important to note that this programme is not an expedited process for obtaining a passport. Applicants must demonstrate a genuine link to the country, and the process includes various steps that ensure the integrity of both the individual and the investment.
Why Consider a Malta Passport?
The Malta Passport is highly regarded due to the numerous benefits it offers. Beyond the convenience of visa-free travel to over 190 destinations, including EU, USA and Canada, Maltese citizenship provides full EU rights. This includes the ability to reside, work, study and retire in any EU member state, offering flexibility and access to a wide range of opportunities. For those seeking global mobility, security, and access to the European market, Maltese citizenship can be a valuable asset.
Additionally, Malta itself is an appealing location for personal and business reasons. It offers a stable political environment, a robust legal framework, and a high quality of life. The country has a well-established healthcare system, a growing economy, and a favourable climate, making it an attractive place to live or maintain a base of operations.
Eligibility Criteria
While the Malta Citizenship by Investment programme offers significant benefits, it is essential to meet certain eligibility requirements to apply successfully. These requirements ensure that the programme maintains its integrity and high standards. Below are the key criteria:
- Minimum Age: The principal applicant must be at least 18 years old at the time of application. Dependants may also be added to the application, including spouse, financially dependent and unmarried children up until 28 years of age, and grandparents over the age of 55, under certain conditions, to benefit under the Malta Citizenship Regulations. Additional financial contributions for each dependant apply.
- Clean Criminal Record: A crucial component of the application process is a background check to ensure applicants possess a clean criminal record, as verified by international databases.
- Health Insurance Coverage: Prior to submitting an application for residency, all applicants, including dependents, are required to have comprehensive global health insurance coverage. This requirement ensures that individuals granted Maltese citizenship will not become a financial burden on the local healthcare system. Applicants must show they are in good standing and repute and will undergo a ‘fit and proper’ test.
- Investment in Malta: One of the primary conditions of the programme is the financial contribution. Applicants are required to make significant investments in Malta, including a non-refundable contribution to the National Development and Social Fund (NDSF), a real estate purchase or lease, and a donation to an approved charitable organization (further details below). These investments reflect a long-term commitment to the country’s development.
- Residency Requirement: Malta’s citizenship by investment programme includes a residency condition, requiring applicants to reside in Malta for a period of 12 to 36 months prior to obtaining citizenship. This ensures that applicants develop genuine ties to the country. Residency, however, does not necessitate continuous physical presence, but rather the establishment of a meaningful connection to Malta during this period.
Residency Requirements
Applicants must first obtain legal residence for at least 36 months (or 12 months by exception), which includes the lease of a residential property with a rental value of at least €16,000 per year, held for the same period. A valid residence card is required for applicants to proceed with the citizenship application.
Financial Investment Requirements
- Contribution to the Maltese Government Fund
One of the primary requirements of the programme is a financial contribution to the National Development and Social Fund (NDSF). This fund supports a variety of national projects, including healthcare, education, and public services. The contribution is a non-refundable donation, but it represents a significant step towards citizenship by supporting Malta’s long-term development. The contribution is of:
- Minimum €600,000 for the main applicant and €50,000 for each additional dependent if applying after 36 months of residency.
- Minimum of €750,000 for the main applicant and €50,000 for each additional dependent if opting to apply after 12 months of residency.
- Real Estate Investment
Applicants are required to purchase a residential property in Malta of at least €700,000, or else rent a residential property with a rental value of at least €16,000 per year. Either option must be held for at least five years and the property cannot be sub-let during this period.
- Philanthropic Donation
A compulsory donation of €10,000 to a registered non-governmental organisation or society.
How can we assist?
NM Group (Malta) Ltd. is a licensed agent and can thus assist with the whole application process. The information provided here covers the main points related to the Malta Citizenship by Naturalisation for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment, however interested parties are encouraged to get in touch to discuss their eligibility criteria and other requirements in further detail.
If you need assistance, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team through the Contact Us Section or by sending an email on [email protected]. You may also download a copy of our Malta Citizenship brochure from here.
