Overview of Malta
Malta is a stunning archipelago known for its friendly inhabitants, delightful weather, numerous beaches, and rich history and culture. The archipelago consists of seven islands, with the three largest being inhabited. Positioned 93 km south of Sicily, Italy, and 288 km north of North Africa, Malta enjoys a warm Mediterranean climate. The capital city is Valletta, a historic city dating back to the 16th century. Malta has a population of 525,000 people. The island nation is in the Top10 of the most densely populated countries in the world.
Citizenship by Investment Program of Malta
Malta introduced its Citizenship by Investment Program in 2013, known as the Individual Investor Program of Malta (IIP Malta), aiming to attract individuals with high net worth. This program enables foreign individuals and their families to acquire Maltese citizenship by contributing to Malta’s economic development. The program provides two pathways to citizenship: one through residency within 12 months and the other through residency up to 36 months.
To qualify, investors are required to contribute €750,000 to the National Economic and Social Development Fund for citizenship after 12 months of residency, or €600,000 for citizenship after 36 months of residency. Additionally, a property purchase with a minimum value of €700,000 or a property lease with an annual minimum of €18,000 is mandatory. Lastly, a donation of €10,000 must be made to Government Charitable Organizations.
Which Family Members Can Be Added in the Same Malta Citizenship by Investment Application?
- Spouse
- Children under the age of 27 who are financially dependent on the applicant
- Dependent parents over the age of 55
Benefits of Malta Citizenship and Passport
Over the years, the economic stability and political harmony of Malta regarding socio-economic matters have attracted diverse foreign investors in search of a secure yet competitive location for investment and business activities. Following its accession to the European Union in 2004, traditional markets have witnessed expansion, and new sectors are being introduced, thereby fostering consistent economic development. The swift adaptation of families to life in Malta is facilitated by the fact that English serves as the official language, spoken by the entire population on the island.
Malta passport holders are privileged to numerous benefits:
- Enjoy visa-free access to 187 countries and territories, including the Schengen zone, EU members, USA, UK, and Canada.
- Investors possess the right to permanent residence in Malta and any other EU country
- Benefit from special tax considerations
- All Maltese citizens enjoy free healthcare and education
- Attain citizenship within a swift 12-month period.
- Extend passport and citizenship benefits to family members, with the option to pass citizenship down to future generations.
- Right to hold dual citizenship
Malta Citizenship by Real Estate Investment
The Malta Individual Investor Program (MIIP) necessitates investors to either acquire real estate with a minimum value of €700,000 or lease a property with an annual cost of €18,000 for at least 5 years.
Malta citizenship application has 3 stages:
Residency Stage:
- The applicant will be issued a residency card within 1 to 3 weeks from the submission of the application.
- To qualify, the applicant must maintain Maltese Residence for either 36 months or 12 months. During the chosen period, the investor is required to spend a certain amount of time in Malta.
Eligibility Stage:
- Following the issuance of the residence card, the agent will proceed to submit an application for eligibility.
- A letter of approval for eligibility is subsequently issued within 120 to 150 days, contingent upon the completeness of all application documentation.
Citizenship Stage:
- After residing in Malta for either 12 or 36 months (depending on the applicant’s preference) and successfully completing the eligibility assessment, the citizenship application is submitted.
- Subsequently, an invitation to take the Oath of Allegiance is issued.
- Upon taking the Oath of Allegiance, a certificate of naturalization is granted.
- The Agency will then continue to monitor the applicant to ensure ongoing satisfaction of the eligibility criteria for a period of 5 years.
Citizenship by Investment Cost of Malta
Real Estate Investment
€700,000 for purchase option
€18,000 per annum for rent option (for at least five years)
National Development and Social Fund Contribution
€600,000 for the main applicant if selected 36 months residency
€750,000 for the main applicant if selected 12 months residency
Donation to National Government Charitable Organizations
€10,000
Due Diligence fees
€15,000 for the main applicant
€10,000 for other dependents
Admin Fees
€11,000 for the main applicant
€3,000 for other dependents
Legal, Translation, Notarization and Professional Fees
Price varies depending of the complexity of the file and how many family members will be included in the file
How to Qualify for Malta Citizenship?
- The main applicant must be 18 years of age or older.
- Investors must be a third-country national, not a citizen of the EU/EFTA.
- Applicants should have no criminal record and must not have been denied a visa or entry into any country where Malta has visa-free travel.
- Investors are required to undergo a fit and proper test to ensure their reputability.
- Applicants must be in good health and free of contagious diseases.
- Demonstrating ties with Malta, including residing in the country with a residence card for 12 months or more, is a requirement.
Reach us to learn all about Malta Program, Application Details and Visa-Free Countries
Over the past several years, the government of Malta has been successfully working on expanding its list of visa-free countries.
FAQ’s About Malta Citizenship
Does Malta allow dual citizenship?
Yes, Malta permits dual citizenship. Therefore, individuals applying for citizenship through investment can retain their existing citizenship.
How much does Malta citizenship cost?
Applicants for the Malta Individual Investor Program are required to contribute either €600,000 or €750,000 to the Government of Malta. Additionally, they must make a donation of €10,000 to the National Government Charitable Organizations. Furthermore, applicants are obligated to either purchase a qualifying property in Malta with a minimum value of €700,000 or commit to an annual rental of €18,000 for at least five years.
How can I get Malta citizenship by investment?
To be eligible for citizenship by investment in Malta, applicants are required to fulfill several criteria, including making a contribution to the government, donating to the National Government Charitable Organizations, and either purchasing or renting qualifying property within the country.
Which countries are visa-free for Malta passport?
The Maltese passport holds the 10th position in terms of travel freedom, providing visa-free access to more than 185 countries. This includes nations in the EU and Schengen area, along with the United Kingdom, South Korea, Hong Kong, Singapore, Japan, and Canada.
Is Malta a safe place to visit?
Malta is generally considered to be very safe, characterized by a very low crime rate. However, it is advisable for all visitors to the country to exercise basic safety precautions and remain vigilant.
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