Malta Citizenship

Malta Citizenship
by Merit

An introduction to Malta's legal framework for naturalisation on the basis of exceptional merit, the areas considered and the official assessment process.

  • Exceptional Service or Contribution
  • Individual Assessment
  • Official Legal Framework

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General information Citizenship decisions rest with the competent authorities
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Understanding Citizenship by Merit

Merit-based citizenship is a form of naturalisation under Maltese law. It concerns exceptional service, contribution or interest to Malta, rather than qualification through an ordinary residence-based application.

Each case is assessed individually. Professional success, personal wealth or participation in a particular field does not, by itself, establish exceptional merit.

An Exceptional Framework, Not an Investment Programme

Community Malta Agency states that merit citizenship is not a continuation or alternative to the former citizenship-by-investment framework. Its notice also prohibits marketing or promotion of the legislation.
Read the official Agency notice ›

Areas of Exceptional Contribution

Official guidance identifies several fields in which exceptional service, contribution or interest may be considered. These examples are not automatic eligibility categories.

Science & Research

Scientific work, research and discoveries.

Technology

Technological innovation and specialist expertise.

Sport

Sporting achievements and contribution.

Entrepreneurship

Enterprise, business activity and job creation.

Culture & the Arts

Artistic, cultural and creative contribution.

Philanthropy

Philanthropic initiatives and service to others.

See the fields described in official guidance ›

What the Assessment
Considers

The assessment concerns the individual, the substance of the contribution and the evidence supporting it.

01

Contribution & Connection

  • The nature and significance of the service or contribution
  • Its relevance to Malta or humanity, or exceptional interest to Malta
  • How the proposed contribution will continue
  • The connections and commitments described in the proposal
An impressive profile is not a guarantee. The Board evaluates the case and the Minister makes the decision.
02

Evidence & Verification

  • A clear account of achievements and background
  • Documents supporting the proposal and future plans
  • Identity, background and due-diligence checks
  • Further information or relevant endorsements requested by the authorities

How the Official Process Works

A high-level explanation of the statutory stages. The sequence does not promise acceptance or a fixed processing time.

Proposal Letter

A proposal is submitted through Community Malta Agency, setting out achievements, the exceptional contribution or interest, future plans and supporting evidence.

Checks & Proposal Assessment

The Agency undertakes due diligence. The Evaluation Board considers the proposal and makes a recommendation for the Minister’s decision on approval in principle.

Formal Application

Following approval in principle, a formal naturalisation application may be submitted with the required residence, property, language and supporting evidence.

Further Review & Decision

The application is evaluated, including updated checks. The Minister decides; successful applicants complete the oath and certification requirements.

Read the current regulations ›

Requirements at the Formal Application Stage

Approval in principle is a stage in the assessment. It is not a grant of citizenship.
Residential street in Malta
Residence in Malta
The regulations require proof of at least eight months of residence in Malta before the formal application.

Residential Property
Evidence of title to adequate residential property in Malta is required, subject to the statutory exceptions.

Language Knowledge
Confirmation of adequate knowledge of Maltese or English forms part of the requirements.

Ties & Supporting Evidence
Evidence of ties to Malta, the relevant contribution and endorsements where required must support the application.

The residence requirement is not an eight-month citizenship timeline. The complete regulations and individual circumstances govern each case.

FAQ

Citizenship by Merit: Common Questions

No. The Agency states that merit citizenship is not a programme, scheme or alternative to the former investment framework. It concerns exceptional merit and discretionary assessment.

No. A profession or achievement alone does not establish eligibility. The substance of the proposed exceptional service, contribution or interest and its supporting evidence must be assessed.

No. It permits the formal application stage. Further requirements, assessment and a final decision still follow before citizenship can be granted.

No. The eight-month provision concerns residence evidence before the formal application. It is not a guaranteed decision period, grant of citizenship or passport delivery schedule.

The regulations provide for certain dependants, subject to their definitions and requirements. Inclusion and approval are not automatic, and checks apply to the relevant individuals.

No predetermined investment package secures citizenship under the merit framework. Agency processing fees apply at different stages; those fees do not purchase citizenship or guarantee a favourable decision.

Malta permits dual or multiple citizenship. The position under any other nationality law must also be checked, because acquiring another citizenship can affect existing nationality rights.

Yes. Commitments and continuing obligations can apply. Failure to meet material obligations can lead to deprivation of citizenship in accordance with the law.

Official Guidance & Sources

Use the legislation and Agency guidance for the current legal requirements and process. General summaries cannot establish eligibility or predict a decision.

Information reviewed: 22 October 2026.

Would You Like to Learn More?

For general questions about the information on this page, contact A Plus Solutions. Official requirements and citizenship decisions remain with Malta’s competent authorities.

General information only. This page does not constitute an application, an eligibility determination or a guarantee of citizenship.
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