Maltese citizenship through official programs: access to privileges and opportunities in the European Union

Yes, Malta officially allows multiple citizenship, so you do not need to renounce your current passport. This allows you to retain all the rights and opportunities associated with your current citizenship while enjoying the benefits of European Union citizenship.

A standard set of documents is required: passport, birth and marriage certificates, proof of income and no criminal record, proof of origin or legal residence, as well as translations and apostilles. If applying under the investment program, proof of the source of funds and financial investments will also be required.

Yes, the application can include a spouse, children under 29, and parents over 55, provided they are financially dependent on the main applicant. All family members undergo the same background check procedure (in the case of investments) and take an oath after approval.

Under the Citizenship by Naturalization for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment program, until April 2025, it was possible to obtain citizenship after 12–36 months of residence, provided that investment requirements were met: a contribution to the National Development and Social Protection Fund, rental or purchase of real estate, and a charitable donation. The program has now been replaced by Citizenship by Merit, which is based not on direct investment but on the candidate's exceptional contribution to science, sports, business, or innovation in line with the country's national interests. The new program does not have a fixed financial threshold; each case is assessed individually.

The processing time depends on the basis for application: up to 1 year for applications under the investment program and up to 3 years for regular naturalization. In practice, the time frame may vary depending on the completeness of the application package and the speed of the background check.

Personal presence is required at the final stages — to submit biometric data, attend an interview, and take the oath of citizenship. The preparation of documents, submission of the application, and most of the interaction with the authorities can be done remotely through a power of attorney.

Yes, if you can prove that your parents or grandparents were Maltese citizens, you are eligible for citizenship by descent. This process does not require investment or long-term residence in the country and follows a simplified procedure.