Looking for a second passport that unlocks visa-free travel, EU residency, and new financial opportunities—all while keeping your U.S. citizenship? Malta offers one of the most powerful dual citizenship for American citizens options. Whether through investment, ancestry, marriage, or residency, U.S. citizens have multiple pathways to securing an elite EU passport.
In this guide, we break down exactly how to get Maltese citizenship, the legal must-knows, and whether it’s the right move for you. Read on to find out how Malta can open new doors.
Dual citizenship means that a person is a citizen of two countries at the same time. This means that U.S. citizens can become Maltese citizens while still keeping their American passports. Since Malta allows dual citizenship for American citizens, it is a popular choice for those seeking more travel freedom and access to the European Union.
The U.S. government does not promote dual citizenship, but it does allow it. This means:
• U.S. citizens do not have to give up their American passport if they become Maltese citizens.
• They still have all the rights and responsibilities of a U.S. citizen.
• The only way to lose U.S. citizenship is by officially renouncing it at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
Responsibilities of Dual Citizenship
Even though dual citizenship has many benefits, it also comes with some responsibilities:
• Taxes: The U.S. requires all its citizens to file tax returns and report income, even if they live in another country.
• Foreign bank accounts: If a U.S. citizen has bank accounts in Malta, they may have to report them under FATCA (Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act) and FBAR (Foreign Bank Account Report).
• Legal duties: U.S. citizens must still follow American laws, including registering for Selective Service if they are required.
Getting dual citizenship in Malta gives U.S. citizens many advantages, including easier travel, better financial opportunities, and a higher quality of life.
Global Mobility & Visa-Free Travel
One of the biggest benefits of dual citizenship for American citizens in Malta is the ability to travel visa-free or with a visa on arrival to over 190 countries, including:
• All EU and Schengen Zone countries
• United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and Japan
• Many other major destinations
This makes travel much easier, as dual citizens do not have to go through long visa application processes. It is especially useful for business, tourism, and personal freedom.
Access to the EU Market & Economy
Maltese citizenship gives full rights to live, work, and study anywhere in the European Union, as well as in countries like Switzerland, Norway, and Liechtenstein. This includes:
The right to work or start a business in any EU country;
Easier access to European banks and acquisition of property;
The ability to study at European universities under the same conditions as EU nationals.
Lifestyle & Quality of Life
Malta is known for its Mediterranean climate, English-speaking population, and high-quality healthcare and education. The country is also:
One of the safest places in Europe, with low crime rates.
Politically stable and economically strong, making it a secure place to live and invest.
Generational Citizenship & Wealth Planning
Maltese citizenship is hereditary, meaning it can be passed on to future generations. This provides:
Long-term benefits for family members, including EU rights and travel freedom.
Better financial security, allowing families to protect assets and diversify investments in Europe.
LGBTQ+ Friendly Environment
Malta is one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly countries in the world. It is ranked highly on the ILGA Rainbow Europe Index for:
Strong laws that protect equal rights and prevent discrimination.
A welcoming and inclusive society, making it a safe place for LGBTQ+ individuals and families.
There are several ways for U.S. citizens to become Maltese citizens. Some options require long-term residency or proof of Maltese family history, while the fastest option is through citizenship by investment. Below are the four main ways Americans can apply for Maltese citizenship.
Citizenship by Investment: The Granting of Citizenship for Exceptional Services
Malta offers dual citizenship for American citizens through a citizenship-by-investment program designed for reputable individuals and their families by bringing useful knowledge and contribute to the country’s economic development. This program allows U.S. citizens to get Maltese citizenship by making a financial contribution and living in Malta for a minimum of 12 or 36 months.
Investment Requirements:
To qualify, applicants must:
• Contribute at least €600,000 to Malta’s economy if they apply after 36 months of residency, or €750,000 for a faster process (12 months of residency).
• Pay an extra €50,000 per dependent included in the application.
Invest in real estate by either:
• Buying a property worth at least €700,000, or
• Renting a property for at least €16,000 per year (must be kept for five years).
• Make a €10,000 donation to a Maltese charity.
Residency & Background Checks: They must pass a strict background check to prove they have a clean criminal record and legal sources of income.
Citizenship by Investment is the fastest way to become a Maltese citizen.
Citizenship by Naturalization
U.S. citizens can also become Maltese citizens through naturalization, but this requires six fifteen years of legal residence in Malta.
Requirements:
To qualify, applicants must:
• Live in Malta for at least fifteen years.
• Show strong ties to Malta, such as owning property, running a business, or having close family in the country.
• Have a clean criminal record.
• Speak English or Maltese.
• Be financially independent and not rely on government assistance.
• Show proof of integration into Maltese society, such as professional or community involvement.
This option is best for Americans who already live and work in Malta and want to apply for citizenship after several years.
Citizenship by Marriage
• U.S. citizens who are married to a Maltese national can apply for citizenship after five years of marriage and living together. The Maltese government checks that the marriage is genuine and not for immigration purposes.
Required Documents:
• Marriage certificate (officially registered in Malta).
• Proof of cohabitation, such as rental agreements, joint bank accounts, or utility bills.
• Affidavits from witnesses confirming the couple lives together.
This is a good option for Americans married to Maltese citizens who plan to build a life in Malta.
Citizenship by Descent
U.S. citizens with Maltese ancestors may be eligible for citizenship by descent. If they can prove their family connection to a Maltese parent, grandparent, or great-grandparent, they can apply for citizenship through registration instead of naturalisation.
This is the easiest and least expensive way for Americans with Maltese heritage to obtain citizenship, as it does not require investment or residency.
Before applying for Maltese citizenship, U.S. citizens should understand the legal and financial responsibilities of holding two nationalities. The U.S. allows dual citizenship, but it also has specific rules about taxes and legal obligations.
Dual citizenship for American citizens in Malta provides greater freedom to travel, the right to live and work in the EU, and financial opportunities, while still keeping a U.S. passport. There are different ways to apply, including investment, naturalisation, marriage, or descent, but each has its own rules and requirements. At the same time, U.S. citizens must follow tax laws and legal responsibilities in both countries.
If you are considering Maltese citizenship by investment, DZ Advisory can help you understand the application process, legal steps, and investment options. Contact us today for expert support on your journey to dual citizenship.