How to Become Maltese Through Investment

Dreaming of living in Europe’s Mediterranean paradise with citizenship, visa-free travel, and financial benefits? Becoming Maltese through investment could be your golden ticket.

Malta offers a secure and legal pathway for high-net-worth individuals to obtain citizenship through strategic investments in the country’s economy. From luxury real estate to government contributions, this guide breaks down everything you need to know about securing Maltese citizenship through investment—fast, efficient, and hassle-free.

What Is the Malta Citizenship by Investment Program?

The Granting of Malta Citizenship for Exceptional Services program allows high-net-worth individuals to gain Maltese citizenship by making a financial contribution to the country’s economy. Previously known as the Maltese Exceptional Investor Naturalisation (MEIN), this program is designed to attract successful individuals who can contribute positively to Malta through investment and expertise.

Key Benefits of Maltese Citizenship

Maltese citizenship through investment provides several important advantages for investors and their families:

EU citizenship: The right to live, work, and study in 27 EU countries, as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland, and the UK.
Visa-free travel: Easy access to 180+ countries, including the USA, Canada, Australia, and Japan.
Favorable tax system: No global taxation for individuals who are not domiciled in Malta.
Dual Citizenship: Applicants can keep their original nationality, depending on their home country’s laws.
Family eligibility: Citizenship includes spouses, unmarried dependent children under 29, and parents or grandparents over 55.
Business & investment advantages: Investors who become Maltese through investment can benefit from Malta’s A+ credit rating, business-friendly environment, and europe’s market access.
High quality of life: Malta offers a warm Mediterranean climate, excellent healthcare, quality education, and a safe environment.

Eligibility Criteria for the Malta Investment Citizenship Program

To qualify for Maltese citizenship through investment, applicants must meet strict requirements.

• The main applicant must be at least 18 years old.
• All applicants must have a clean criminal record. They must pass a four-stage due diligence process, which includes background checks to confirm they have no criminal history or links to illegal activities.
• Applicants must prove they have sufficient financial resources. They must show that their wealth comes from legal sources and that they can meet the investment requirements.
• Applicants must demonstrate a strong connection to Malta. This can include living in Malta, owning property, running a business, or participating in the local community.

Dependent eligibility

The program allows applicants to include family members, as long as they meet the following conditions:

• The spouse or partner must be in a monogamous marriage or legally recognised relationship.
• Children under 18 automatically qualify.
• Children aged 18–29 must be unmarried and financially dependent on the main applicant.
• Parents and grandparents (55+) must be financially dependent on the main applicant.
• Financial Requirements to Become Maltese Through Investment
• To qualify for Maltese citizenship by investment, applicants must meet three main financial requirements. 

Government Contribution

Applicants must make a non-refundable financial contribution to the Maltese government. The amount depends on how long they have been a resident:

• €600,000 if applying after 36 months of residency.
• €750,000 if applying after 12 months of residency.
• An extra €50,000 per dependent added to the application.

Making a government contribution is a key requirement for those who wish to become Maltese through investment, as it helps support public projects and the country’s growth.

Real Estate Investment

Applicants must invest in property in Malta through one of these two options:

• Buy a property worth at least €700,000, OR
• Rent a property for at least €16,000 per year for five years.

The property must be kept for at least five years, and subletting or renting it out to others is not allowed.

Donation to a Maltese NGO

Applicants must donate at least €10,000 to a registered Maltese NGO or charity. This donation supports social causes, culture, or community projects.

The Application Process for Maltese Citizenship by Investment

The process of obtaining Maltese citizenship through investment takes around 12 to 18 months, depending on whether the applicant follows the 12-month or 36-month residency track. The process is divided into three main stages:

Real Estate Investment Residency stage

Applicants must invest in property in Malta through one of these two options:

• Submit an application for Maltese residence to begin the process.
• Provide proof of financial resources and a declaration of intention to invest.
• Receive a residence card, which marks the start of the residency period.

Eligibility stage

• Undergo detailed background checks, including financial verification, legal assessments, and security screening.
• The Maltese government carries out a four-tier due diligence process to confirm that applicants have no criminal record and meet financial requirements.
• Receive initial approval from the Maltese authorities, confirming eligibility to proceed.

Citizenship stage

• Complete all required financial contributions, including the government contribution and donation to a Maltese NGO.
• Provide proof of continued residency in Malta, as required by the program.
• Take the Oath of Allegiance, finalising the citizenship process.
Receive the Maltese citizenship certificate and passport, granting full EU citizenship rights.

Residency and Investment Obligations

Although applicants are not required to live in Malta permanently, they must demonstrate a strong connection to the country. This can include owning property, maintaining investments, or having business and cultural ties. Additionally, maintaining investments for at least five years is essential for those who become Maltese through investment, as it proves their commitment to the country.

This process ensures that only qualified and reputable applicants who meet legal, financial, and ethical standards can obtain Maltese citizenship.

Due Diligence and Background Checks

Malta’s four-step vetting process is designed to prevent fraud, financial crime, and security risks, protecting the reputation of Malta’s citizenship program.

Applicant Requirements

To qualify for Maltese citizenship, applicants must provide:

• Proof of the source of their wealth, showing that their funds are legal and fully verified.
• Police clearance certificates from every country where they have lived for at least 6 months or are national of.
• Financial background checks to confirm that all investments comply with legal and financial regulations.
• International security database screening, carried out by Maltese authorities and independent risk assessment experts.

Reasons for Application Rejection

An application may be refused if the applicant:

• Has a criminal record, a history of financial misconduct, or has been involved in tax evasion.
• Has links to controversial business dealings, corruption, or political scandals.
• Submits false or misleading information, such as forged documents or hidden financial details.

Loss of Citizenship

Even after approval, citizenship can be revoked if an individual fails to follow program rules, such as breaking the law, committing fraud, or failing due diligence checks. This strict process ensures that only responsible and qualified applicants obtain Maltese citizenship.

The Bottom Line

Becoming Maltese through investment opens the door to EU citizenship, global business opportunities, and financial security, making it a smart choice for investors. However, the process requires thorough background checks, a significant financial commitment, and proof of a real connection to Malta.

Since the application process can be complex, expert guidance is essential. DZ Advisory, a licensed agent (AKM-DZAD), offers professional support to ensure a smooth and successful application. Get in touch with DZ Advisory today to take the first step toward Maltese citizenship!

We at are here to guide you every step of the way. If you would like to receive more information, please provide us with your contact details and one of our team members shall be in contact with you promptly.