Merit-Based Recognition
Citizenship for global achievers
Strategic EU Access
Gateway to European mobility
Malta Citizenship by Merit is a prestigious route to Maltese citizenship for individuals who have rendered, or intend to render, exceptional contributions or services to Malta. Designed for global achievers seeking enhanced mobility, it offers a secure route to Maltese citizenship based on Malta’s stable legal framework. The citizenship regulations underscore Malta’s commitment to excellence and integrity.
Benefits
Visa-free travel worldwide
Maltese citizenship allows visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 180 countries, including the EU, USA, and Canada. This benefit empowers individuals with seamless international travel and business opportunities. It’s ideal for global entrepreneurs, investors, and high-profile professionals.
Right to live and work in Europe
As Maltese citizens, individuals enjoy the benefits associated with EU membership, including the freedom to live, work, and study across the Union. Malta’s Citizenship by Merit regulations provide a distinguished pathway into this wider European framework, enhancing both lifestyle and professional opportunities.
Backed by Maltese law
Malta’s Citizenship by Merit regulations are governed by the Maltese Citizenship Act (Cap. 188) and Legal Notice 159 of 2025, which refined the framework to focus on exceptional contributions and services to Malta rather than financial investment.
Under this framework, the Minister may grant citizenship for exceptional services or exceptional contributions to Malta or humanity including achievements in science, entrepreneurship, sports, arts, or philanthropy. Applicants are required to demonstrate a links with Malta, and must pass rigorous due diligence checks.
For individuals distinguished in their field
These regulations can be applied for by individuals who have demonstrated exceptional talent or who plans to render exceptional investments or contributions to Malta. It offers recognition at the highest level, aligning with Malta’s Vision 2050.
Addition of family members
The regulations allow applicants to include their spouse or de facto partner, together with unmarried dependent children up to 29 years old who can be considered as fully financially dependent.
Gateway to three continents
Situated at the crossroads of Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, Malta offers a unique strategic position that has long made it a hub for international business, trade, and travel. Malta’s Citizenship by Merit provides individuals with access to this dynamic region, combining ease of mobility with the prestige associated with Maltese nationality. Beyond its geographic advantages, Malta also offers a stable legal system, robust infrastructure, and a cosmopolitan environment, making it an ideal base for both professional and personal pursuits.
Apply for Maltese Citizenship Through the Merit-Based Framework
Who is this for
This pathway is intended for individuals who have rendered, or propose to render, exceptional contributions, services, or strategic investments in line with Malta Vision 2050, and who wish to formalise such recognition through citizenship. It is particularly suited to accomplished professionals, innovators, and leaders who require a secure, reputable, and internationally respected status.
Applicable to:
- Global entrepreneurs
- High-profile professionals
- Philanthropists
- Technologists
- Innovators and thought leaders
- Ultra-high-net-worth individuals
Why this country
Why Malta
Malta offers a secure and prestigious base for global citizens, combining stability, strategic location, and a high quality of life. Its Citizenship by Merit framework reflects the country’s commitment to excellence and integrity, while recognising individuals who contribute to Malta’s long-term vision and development.
Country Highlights
- Member of the European Union, providing access to European markets and mobility
- Stable political and legal system, ensuring security and predictability
- High standard of living, with excellent healthcare, education, and infrastructure
- Strategic location at the crossroads of Europe, Africa, and the Middle East
- English-speaking jurisdiction, facilitating global business and communication
- Passport providing visa-free travel to EU countries, UK, USA, China and more.
Key Contacts
Dr. Jean-Philippe Chetcuti
Dr. Antoine Saliba Haig
Marina Magri
Unlock Maltese Citizenship Through Merit
Requirements
Legal Basis for Citizenship
Under Maltese law, the merit-based pathway to citizenship is established in the Maltese Citizenship Act (Cap. 188 of the Laws of Malta), as amended by the Maltese Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. XXI of 2025), and implemented through the Granting of Citizenship for Exceptional Services by Merit Regulations, 2025 (Legal Notice 159 of 2025).
The primary legal source for this route is found in Article 10 of the Citizenship Act, which empowers the Minister to grant citizenship by naturalisation:
“The Minister may, in his discretion, grant a certificate of naturalisation as a citizen of Malta to any alien or stateless person who makes application therefor in the prescribed manner and satisfies the Minister that he is of full age and capacity and is of good character:
Provided that the Minister may also grant a certificate of naturalisation to any person who has rendered exceptional services to the Republic of Malta or whose naturalisation is otherwise of exceptional interest to the Republic of Malta.” — Article 10(9), Maltese Citizenship Act (Cap. 188)
This framework enables the Minister to recognise individuals who have made, or propose to make, exceptional contributions, services, or strategic investments that advance Malta’s interests, aligning with the long-term national vision.
Who Qualifies for Merit
The pathway is designed for individuals who have made, or are expected to make, high-impact contributions in areas such as scientific research and innovation, healthcare, cultural heritage and the arts, sports and athletic achievement, entrepreneurship and business leadership, charitable and humanitarian efforts, technological advancement, and philanthropy. Applicants are required to demonstrate that their contributions are exceptional and directly relevant to the national interest of the Republic of Malta.
Exceptional services or contributions considered under Malta’s Citizenship by Merit must be of recognised value to the country and demonstrably serve the public interest. This may encompass achievements in scientific research, education, innovation, culture, the arts, national security, public health, or humanitarian service. The assessment is discretionary, taking into account the national relevance of the contribution and its alignment with Malta Vision 2050.
Contribution Requirements
While Malta’s Citizenship by Merit is not primarily investment-based, applicants may be expected to make a meaningful contribution to the country’s society, economy, or long-term development. This can include philanthropic donations, cultural engagement, job creation, or other initiatives that deliver tangible benefit to Malta or humanity. Candidates may also qualify if they possess exceptional skills, expertise, or achievements that are considered critical to advancing Malta’s national priorities and long-term vision, including areas aligned with Malta Vision 2050.
Endorsement & Due Diligence
Applicants must be endorsed by a Maltese authority, institution, NGO, or philanthropic organisation and undergo rigorous due diligence checks, ensuring that only individuals of the highest calibre and integrity are allowed to apply for citizenship.
Process/Timeline
Review of eligibility criteria
The process begins with an initial assessment of the applicant’s background, and overall eligibility. This involves a thorough understanding of the personal and professional history, and the extent to which the applicant’s contributions or potential impact align with Malta’s merit criteria and long-term objectives under Malta Vision 2050.
Residence Application and Submission of a Proposal Letter
To apply for citizenship, the applicant must first visit Malta and submit a residence application. A citizenship application can only be submitted after 8 months from holding a valid residence permit. Concurrently, a comprehensive proposal letter is prepared and submitted via the Community Malta Agency to the Evaluation Board, comprising of a Chairman and two members. This letter details the applicant’s background, proposed contributions, and intended plans following naturalisation.
Comprehensive background screening
Before the proposal is referred to the Evaluation Board, the Community Malta Agency conducts a comprehensive four-tier initial due diligence review and collects the applicable administrative fees. If the Agency is satisfied, the proposal—endorsed by a designated competent body confirming that the applicant is recognised as a leading talent, has demonstrated exceptional promise, or is of exceptional interest to the Republic of Malta is forwarded to the Evaluation Board. The Board may request additional information or conduct interviews before issuing its recommendation. Following a favourable recommendation, the Minister may approve the proposal and issue a Letter of Approval in Principle. Once the applicant has obtained this letter and completed at least eight months of legal residence in Malta, a formal application for naturalisation on the basis of merit may be submitted. This application must include proof of residence, ownership or lease of adequate residential property, evidence of the required contribution or service, endorsement by a designated competent body, and proof of English or Maltese language proficiency.
Citizenship granted through Ministerial Discretion
Upon submission of the formal citizenship application, the Community Malta Agency conducts a second round of due diligence and collects the applicable administrative fees. Once this review is complete, the application is referred back to the Evaluation Board for consideration. If the Board issues a favourable recommendation and the Minister approves the application, a Letter of Approval is issued. The applicant must then take the Oath of Allegiance within six months, which may be extended if necessary, and sign a written undertaking to uphold ongoing obligations. Following naturalisation, the Agency continues to monitor compliance with post-naturalisation commitments, and in cases of serious non-compliance, the Minister retains the authority to revoke citizenship.
FAQs
[question]What is Malta Citizenship by Merit?[/question]
[answer]Malta Citizenship by Merit is a legal pathway to Maltese citizenship for individuals recognised for exceptional achievements or contributions that create lasting value. Eligible candidates and their families may qualify through distinguished accomplishments, philanthropic initiatives, strategic investment, or contributions that advance Malta’s national interests and priorities in line with Malta's Vision 2050. This includes achievements in fields such as science, technology, sports, entrepreneurship, the arts, or activities that generate employment or broader social impact.[/answer]
[question]Who qualifies for Citizenship by Merit in Malta?[/question]
[answer]Citizenship by Merit in Malta is available to individuals who have rendered, or are expected to render, exceptional contributions, services, or strategic investments that provide lasting value to Malta or humanity. Eligible candidates are typically high-calibre individuals whose achievements, expertise, or initiatives advance Malta’s national interests and priorities, including areas such as science, technology, healthcare, entrepreneurship, the arts, sports, philanthropy, and activities that create jobs or social impact.[/answer]
[question]Is family included in the application?[/question]
[answer]Yes, eligible family members such as the spouse/partner and economically dependent children up to the age of 28 can be included in the application, allowing them to benefit from Maltese citizenship as well.[/answer]
[question]How long does the process take?[/question]
[answer]The process is more rigorous than standard citizenship-by-investment pathways. It includes a detailed assessment of the candidate’s achievements, proposed contributions, and requires ministerial approval. As a result, the timeframe can vary depending on the individual profile and specific circumstances of each case.[/answer]
[question]Can applicants keep their original citizenship when becoming a Maltese citizen?[/question]
[answer]Yes. Malta permits dual or multiple citizenships, so applicants do not need to renounce their original nationality when acquiring Maltese citizenship. This allows individuals to enjoy the benefits of Maltese citizenship while maintaining their existing nationalities and associated rights.[/answer]
