How to Obtain Malta Citizenship: Requirements, Costs & Timeline Explained

Malta citizenship by investment offers high-net-worth individuals and entrepreneurs a direct pathway to European Union membership. As one of the most prestigious citizenship by investment programs in the world, Malta’s Exceptional Investor Naturalisation (MEIN) grants successful applicants a Maltese passport with visa-free access to 180+ countries, including the USA, UK, and the entire Schengen Area.

Strategically located at the crossroads of Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East, Malta provides more than just a picturesque Mediterranean lifestyle. It delivers unparalleled global mobility, EU business opportunities, and access to world-class healthcare and education systems within the European Union.

Whether you’re seeking tax optimization, a secure Plan B for your family, or expanded business horizons, Malta citizenship represents a strategic investment in your future. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about obtaining a Maltese passport through investment in 2025.

What Is Malta Citizenship by Investment?

The Malta Exceptional Investor Naturalisation (MEIN) program, formerly known as the Malta Individual Investor Programme (MIIP), is a government-approved pathway for foreign investors to obtain Maltese citizenship through a combination of financial contributions, property investments, and residency requirements.

Unlike a Malta Golden Visa (which grants residency only), the MEIN program provides full citizenship and an EU passport. This makes Malta one of the few European countries offering direct citizenship through investment.

Key features of the program include:

• Full EU citizenship with permanent rights
• Maltese passport ranked among the top 10 globally
• Right to live, work, and study anywhere in the EU
• Citizenship extends to spouse, children, and dependent parents
• No language test or cultural exam required

For a broader understanding of investment migration options, read our Residency & Citizenship by Investment Ultimate Guide .

Malta Citizenship Requirements & Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for Malta citizenship by investment, applicants must meet strict financial, residency, and legal requirements. The Maltese government conducts rigorous due diligence to maintain the program’s integrity and international reputation.

Financial Investment Requirements

The MEIN program requires three mandatory investment components:

1. Contribution to National Development Fund: €600,000 (36-month residency track) or €750,000 (12-month fast-track)
2. Real Estate Investment: Purchase property worth minimum €700,000 OR rent property at €16,000+ annually (5-year commitment)
3. Philanthropic Donation: €10,000 to a registered Maltese NGO or charity

Total minimum investment: Approximately €690,000–€890,000+ depending on the chosen track and property option.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be at least 18 years of age
• Hold a clean criminal record (no convictions or pending charges)
• Pass comprehensive due diligence and background checks
• Demonstrate legitimate source of funds
• Maintain valid health insurance coverage
• Not be a citizen of sanctioned countries (Iran, North Korea, etc.)
• Meet residency requirement (12 or 36 months depending on track)

Maltese Passport Benefits & Visa-Free Countries

A Maltese passport consistently ranks among the world’s most powerful travel documents, offering holders exceptional global mobility and EU privileges.

Travel Freedom

• Visa-free access to 180+ countries including USA, UK, Canada, Japan, Australia, and all EU/Schengen states
• Freedom to live, work, and study in all 27 EU member states
• No visa required for business travel to major financial centers

Business & Tax Advantages

• Access to EU single market (450+ million consumers)
• Competitive corporate tax environment with refund system (effective rate can reach 5%)
• 60+ double taxation treaties
• No wealth tax, inheritance tax, or capital gains tax on foreign income
• Strong banking sector with international connectivity

Quality of Life

• Access to top-tier EU healthcare systems
• World-class education opportunities across Europe
• Political stability and robust legal framework
• English as an official language (alongside Maltese)
• Mediterranean climate with 300+ days of sunshine

Interested in comparing citizenship options? Explore our guide on Citizenship Through Real Estate Investment  for alternative programs.

How Much Does Malta Citizenship Cost in 2025?

Understanding the full Malta citizenship cost is essential for proper financial planning. Here’s a detailed breakdown of all expenses:

Standard Track (36-Month Residency)

• Government contribution: €600,000
• Real estate purchase: €700,000+ (or rental: €16,000/year × 5 years = €80,000)
• Charitable donation: €10,000
• Due diligence fees: €15,000 (main applicant)
• Administrative fees: €1,000–€5,000
• Total (purchase option): €1.3M+ | Total (rental option): €690,000+

Fast-Track (12-Month Residency)

• Government contribution: €750,000 (€150,000 higher)
• All other costs remain the same
• Total (purchase option): €1.45M+ | Total (rental option): €840,000+

Additional Dependent Costs

• Spouse: €50,000
• Children (under 18): €25,000 each
• Adult children (18–29, unmarried): €50,000 each
• Dependent parents (55+): €50,000 each

Malta Citizenship Processing Time & Timeline

The journey to Malta citizenship typically spans 14 to 38 months, depending on the chosen track and individual circumstances.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Initial Consultation & Document Preparation (1–2 months): Engage authorized agent, gather documents, prepare application
2. Residency Application (2–3 months): Submit Malta residency permit application, obtain e-residence card
3. Residency Period (12 or 36 months): Maintain legal residence in Malta (physical presence not strictly required)
4. Citizenship Application (1–2 months): Submit MEIN application with all supporting documents
5. Due Diligence & Review (4–6 months): Comprehensive background checks by Maltese authorities
6. Letter of Approval (1 month): Receive approval in principle
7. Final Payments & Oath (1 month): Complete remaining payments, take oath of allegiance
8. Passport Issuance (2–4 weeks): Receive Maltese passport and citizenship certificate

Who Qualifies for Malta Citizenship?

The Malta citizenship by investment program is specifically designed for:

Ideal Candidates

• High-Net-Worth Individuals: Entrepreneurs, executives, and investors with liquid assets of €2M+
• Business Owners: Those seeking EU market access, international expansion, and favorable tax structures
• Families: Parents seeking EU education, healthcare, and a secure future for their children
• Global Citizens: Frequent travelers wanting visa-free access to 180+ countries
• Citizens of Restricted-Passport Countries: Individuals from Middle East, Africa, South Asia, or CIS countries seeking global mobility

Looking for alternative citizenship options? Read our comprehensive guide on Grenada Citizenship by Investment , which offers a more affordable Caribbean alternative with E-2 treaty access to the USA.

Malta Golden Visa vs Citizenship: Key Differences

Understanding the distinction between Malta’s residency and citizenship programs is crucial for making the right investment decision:

• Malta Permanent Residency Program (MPRP): Lower investment (€100,000+ contribution), grants residency rights only, no EU passport, no voting rights
• Malta Citizenship by Investment (MEIN): Higher investment (€690,000+), grants full citizenship, EU passport, voting rights, and citizenship for future generations

For investors prioritizing EU passport privileges and long-term family security, the citizenship route offers significantly greater value despite the higher initial investment.

Conclusion

Malta citizenship by investment represents one of the most valuable pathways to EU membership available today. With a Maltese passport, you gain visa-free travel to 180+ countries, the right to live and work anywhere in Europe, access to world-class healthcare and education, and significant tax planning opportunities.

While the investment threshold is substantial (€690,000–€1.5M+), the lifelong benefits for you and your family—including future generations—make Malta citizenship a strategic long-term investment in global mobility and financial security.

Ready to take the next step? Connect with our expert immigration consultants for a personalized assessment of your eligibility and a tailored roadmap to obtaining Malta citizenship.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much does Malta citizenship by investment cost?

The minimum investment ranges from €690,000 (rental option, 36-month track) to €1.5M+ (property purchase, 12-month fast-track). This includes government contribution, real estate, charitable donation, and administrative fees.

How long does it take to get Malta citizenship?

The process takes 14–16 months (fast-track) or 38–42 months (standard track), including residency period, due diligence, and processing time.

Can I include my family in the Malta citizenship application?

Yes. Eligible dependents include spouse, children under 29 (if unmarried and financially dependent), and parents aged 55+ who are financially dependent on the main applicant.

Does Malta allow dual citizenship?

Yes. Malta fully recognizes dual citizenship. You can retain your original nationality while holding a Maltese passport.

Do I need to live in Malta to maintain citizenship?

No. Once citizenship is granted, there is no physical residency requirement. However, you must maintain the property investment (purchase or rental) for the required 5-year period.

How many countries can I visit visa-free with a Maltese passport?

A Maltese passport provides visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 180+ countries, including the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, Singapore, and all EU/Schengen states.

Is Malta citizenship by investment legitimate?

Yes. The Malta Exceptional Investor Naturalisation (MEIN) program is a fully legal, government-regulated pathway to citizenship. It is administered by Identity Malta under strict EU oversight and includes comprehensive due diligence procedures.

Sources

• Henley Passport Index – Global Passport Rankings
• Investment Migration Council – Industry Standards and Guidelines
• Malta Residency Visa Agency (MRVA) – Official Program Information
• Identity Malta – Citizenship By Investment
• KennedyPearce Consulting Ltd – Expert Advice for Malta Citizenship: Investment Options and Legal Guidance
• CC Malta – Overview of Malta Citizenship by Investment
• Ciantar Associates – How to Secure Malta Citizenship by Investment
• Identity Malta – Citizenship by Naturalisation for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment