Malta citizenship by investment

Applicant Requirements for a Citizenship Application

In order to be eligible for citizenship by investment in Malta, the main applicant must meet the following requirements:

1. Be at least 18 years of age
2. Have no criminal record
3. Be in good health; provide records that they do not suffer from any contagious disease and proof of an international health policy
4. Provide proof of residence in Malta for a period of 36 months. This period may be reduced to 12 months subject to a higher exceptional direct investment (see below). 

The main applicant may also add dependents to their application, including their spouse or long-term partner, minor children, dependent children who are unmarried under the age of 29, and dependent parents or grandparents over the age of 55.

Investment Requirements for Citizenship Application

The citizenship by investment program for Malta requires the following investments:

1. Direct Investment & Residency

Applicants must make a contribution of at least €600,000 to the national development fund, as well as provide proof of residency for 36 months. However, an exception is made, requiring proof of only 12 months of residency, for those making a contribution of €750,000. Additionally, for each dependent included in their application, applicants must contribute an extra €50,000.

2. Real Estate Purchase or Rental

Applicants must also purchase immovable residential real estate in Malta, with a minimum value of €700,000 and for a minimum period of five years. Otherwise, they can lease a residential property in Malta at a minimum annual rent of €16,000, which must be maintained for five years.

3. Charity Donation

The applicant must donate at least €10,000 to a local non-profit organization. The applicant can choose from any approved philanthropic, cultural, artistic, sport, or scientific organizations or societies.

Procedures

Administration and processing of Maltese citizenship under the Naturalization for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment program is done by the Community Malta Agency. The application process for citizenship by investment in Malta is thorough and undergoes a four-tier due diligence process. It can be broken down into steps: 

1. Clients reach out to JH Marlin Law
2. Initial due diligence checks are performed by JH Marlin Law
3. Client agreement is signed with JH Marlin Law
4. Required documents are collected and prepared
5. Tier 1 due diligence checks completed by the Community Malta Agency
6. If successful, residence permit application made to the Community Malta Agency 
7. If successful, residency is obtained for 36 months. Upon residency approval, a deposit of €10,000 must be made towards the exceptional investment required for citizenship. Residency fees must also be paid. 
8. Application for citizenship eligibility and corresponding documents are submitted to the Community Malta Agency. Due diligence fees must be paid.
9. Tier 2, Tier 3, Tier 4 due diligence checks are completed by the Community Malta Agency.
10. Application submitted to the minister to make a decision on the eligibility to apply for citizenship
11. If successful, citizenship application made to the Community Malta Agency after 36 months (or 12 months with exception)
12. Community Malta Agency updates due diligence and submits findings to minister
13. Minister makes final decision regarding whether citizenship shall be granted
14. If successful, applicant makes investment, donation and purchases property as required, and submits proof of these
15. Applicant visits Malta to take Oath of Allegiance
16. Maltese Certificate of Naturalization and passport is issued