Malta has a new citizenship framework centred on merit-based naturalisation: Malta Citizenship by Merit. Under this path, Malta can grant citizenship to individuals who make exceptional contributions or deliver exceptional services to Malta, or to humanity at large. This merit-based path is subject to an application processed handled by Community Malta Agency, the government agency responsible for citizenships, with the Minister in charge making the ultimate decision.
This progressive approach will recognise individuals who have rendered exceptional service to Malta or to humanity, shifting the focus away from financial investment and toward meaningful contribution in line with the strategic goals set out in Malta Vision 2050. The emphasis now shifts to applicants who provide clear added value in particular areas.
Eligible contributions include sectors in science, research, innovation, technology, art, culture, entrepreneurship, philanthropy, social services, and sports and prospective applicants would need to demonstrate superior qualities and tangible value-add to the nation that serves Malta’s national interest. With no set checklists and no financial thresholds, and the citizenship is granted on a case-by-case basis. In terms of due diligence applicants must meet robust integrity standards and applicants will be required to explain how they intend to continue their contribution to Malta following the naturalisation process.
There is no minimum investment requirement under the Malta Citizenship by Merit process, making it accessible to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional service or contribution to Malta, rather than financial input. Eligible family members, including the applicant’s spouse and dependent children, may also be included in the application. The processing time varies depending on the complexity and individual circumstances of each case, but it generally takes around 15 months from the initial submission to the final approval.
The Application Process for Malta Citizenship by Merit
Proposal Letter
A proposal letter is submitted to the Evaluation Board at Community Malta Agency for initial review. The Board consists of three members. The letter must include information about the applicant, the proposed exceptional services or contributions that would bring value to Malta, and the applicant’s ongoing plans post-naturalisation.
Due Diligence Checks, Evaluation, Recommendation & Approval in Principle
The process begins with thorough due diligence checks on the applicant. The Board evaluates the proposal and, if the outcome is positive, makes a recommendation to the responsible Minister. The Minister may then issue a Letter of Approval in Principle, allowing the applicant to proceed to the next stage.
Residence Period & Formal Citizenship Application
The applicant must reside in Malta for at least eight months before submitting the formal application for naturalisation based on merit. When submitting the full application, several documents are required, including:
- Proof of residential property in Malta
- Evidence of the required contribution or service
- Proof of English or Maltese language proficiency
- Any other supporting documentation
Additional Due Diligence & Second Review
Upon submission of the citizenship application, the Community Malta Agency conducts further checks to verify all information and ensure compliance. The application is then referred once again to the Evaluation Board for a second review. If the Board issues a favourable recommendation, it moves to the Minister for final approval.
Letter of Approval, Oath & Commitment
The Minister may issue the official Letter of Approval. The applicant must then take the Oath of Allegiance and sign an undertaking to uphold all ongoing obligations.
Post-Naturalisation Monitoring
After naturalisation, the Community Malta Agency monitors continued compliance with post-naturalisation commitments. In cases of serious non-compliance, the Minister has the authority to withdraw citizenship.
Sciberras Advocates provides procedural support at every stage of the application process for the Malta Citizenship by Merit.