Citizenship By Investment

Looking Ahead: What to Expect from the Malta Citizenship-by-Merit Framework

While full legislative details are still to be published, the new citizenship-by-merit framework is expected to focus on recognising individuals who make exceptional contributions to Malta.

Unlike the previous investment-based model, the merit-based pathway will centre on genuine engagement and national value, ensuring that Maltese citizenship is granted based on contribution, not financial transaction alone.

This approach will prioritise meaningful engagement and achievements in areas such as:

• Scientific innovation and research;
• Cultural and artistic advancement;
• Philanthropy and social impact; and
• Economic or entrepreneurial contributions of national benefit.

This evolving framework underscores Malta’s continued commitment to maintaining the integrity, credibility, and long-term value of its citizenship offering—aligning with national interests and providing long-term value.

Maltese Citizenship by Naturalisation for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment Regulations

With a robust and booming economy, a stable political climate, world-class healthcare and top-notch educational institutions - Malta, with its warm and welcoming people, is an attractive investment prospect for many. The Island sits nestled in an archipelago and provides a peaceful yet vibrant Mediterranean lifestyle. Maltese citizens benefit from Malta’s close proximity to Europe and visa-free travel in the Schengen area.

Obtaining Residence in Malta through the Maltese Citizenship by Naturalisation for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment Rules is undoubtedly the right path for the individuals and their families searching to gain residence and Citizenship in a well-respected European country with a vast array of business opportunities.

How to gain Residence and Citizenship in Malta: Maltese Citizenship by Naturalisation for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment Rules

The MEIN Rules are known as the Maltese Citizenship by Naturalisation for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment.

On 20 November 2020, the Maltese Citizenship by Naturalisation for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment - regulated by the Maltese Citizenship Act (CAP. 188) and the Legal Notice 437 of 2020 will allow high net worth individuals and their families the possibility to acquire a residence in Malta and eventually obtain Maltese citizenship through direct investment.

This programme was developed to replace the Individual Investors programme which came to an end in September of 2020 after meeting the quota limits originally set for the programme at its inception in 2014 under the Maltese Citizenship Act (CAP. 188) and the IIP Regulations, 2014 (L.N. 47 of 2014)

The Malta Exceptional Investor Naturalization regulations are ideal for the discerning Private Client interested in gaining security, flexibility, and a base in a safe and law-abiding country. Applicants will first apply for residence in the country, giving them the right to reside in Malta and visa-free access to Europe. After passing stringent Due Diligence checks and building ‘genuine links’ to Malta, successful applicants will be granted Maltese Citizenship by making an Exceptional Direct investment in the country.  

There are a number of processes that need to be adhered to along with a series of requirements and investment contributions that need to be met in order to qualify for the new MEIN Programme.

The Required Investment

The direct and exceptional investments that are required under the Maltese Citizenship by Naturalisation for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment Regulations are as follows; 

• Standard procedure: If applying after 36 months, a contribution of €600,000 for the Main Applicant and an additional €50,000 for each dependant;

• Expedited procedure: If the applicant decides to apply at the 12th month, a contribution of €750,000 is due, plus €50,000 for each additional dependant.

A Property Investment: Applicants will need to either buy a property in Malta with a minimum value of €700,000 or commit to a residential rental agreement with a minimum annual rent of €16,000. The property investment must be retained for a minimum of five years from the date of the certificate of Citizenship;

A Donation: A compulsory donation of €10,000 to a registered non-governmental organisation (NGO)

The qualifying investments must be held for 5 years, and the applicant must show strong and effective links to Malta.

Effective Link to Malta

The residence requirement requires evidence of an effective link with Malta. Citizenship is applied for after 12 months from the effective date of commencement of a link with Malta. The applicant must commit to a minimum physical presence in Malta prior to Citizenship being granted.

Which are the benefits of applying for the Maltese Citizenship by Naturalisation for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment Rules?

There are many benefits associated with the successful application for Maltese Citizenship by a Direct and Exceptional Investment. These include but are not limited to;

• The freedom to live and work across Europe and Schengen states, as well as visa-free travel to more than 180 countries, including the EEUU through an ESTA authorisation.
• The strategic location of the Island, at the centre of the Mediterranean, just a 2-3 hrs flight from all major financial capitals of Europe.
• A strong economy with a booming real estate market in Europe.
• Business and Wealth Structuring: gains derived by a Malta company may typically be taxed in Malta at a rate of 5%, although lower effective rates may also be achievable.
• An efficient and sound process - Residence is gained first, and Citizenship is obtained after 12 months of being a resident in Malta, after passing a stringent due diligence process;
• Dependants include - dependant parents of both the main applicant and spouse, minors and adult children under 29 years old who are economically inactive and financially dependent on the main applicant.
• A sound and smart investment in a booming economy in Europe, for you and your family, with the Citizenship being passed on to future generations.