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Malta Citizenship by Investment

Processing Time

16-18 Months Or 36-48 months

CONTRIBUTION OR REAL ESTATE

Starting from  690,000€

VISA-FREE ACCESS TO

170+ Countries

Malta Citizenship

Citizenship by Investment

Overview of Malta Citizenship by Investment Program

The Malta Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Program, officially known as the Malta Exceptional Investor Naturalization (MEIN), is a government initiative that allows foreign investors to obtain Maltese citizenship through significant investments. Launched in 2014, the program aims to attract high-net-worth individuals, boost the country’s economy, and encourage foreign direct investment.
Over the years, the program has undergone revisions to ensure alignment with EU regulations. As one of the few EU nations offering a citizenship-by-investment pathway, Malta has successfully drawn international investors due to the unique advantages it provides, both within the EU and globally.

Why choose Malta?

  • Strategic location in the Mediterranean with easy access to Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East
  • Political stability with strong governance and European Union membership
  • High quality of life with excellent healthcare and education
  • Warm Mediterranean climate with over 300 days of sunshine annually
  • Rich cultural heritage with historical sites, festivals, and diverse traditions
  • English-speaking population making communication and business easier
  • Favorable tax system with attractive incentives for individuals and businesses
  • Low crime rates providing a safe and secure environment for residents

Curated Links for Malta citizens

Living in Malta

Business Environment

Malta provides a highly attractive business climate with low corporate taxes, easy access to the EU market, and a strong legal framework. Key sectors like fintech, iGaming, and maritime services thrive, while the government encourages foreign investment and innovation through incentive programs. Malta’s strategic location and robust infrastructure make it a prime choice for global businesses.

Healthcare

Malta’s healthcare system is modern and efficient, offering both public and private care. Public healthcare is accessible and either free or low-cost for residents, funded through taxes. The country’s medical facilities are well-equipped, and healthcare professionals are highly trained, ensuring excellent care. Malta ranks among the top in Europe for healthcare quality and accessibility.

Education

Malta has a solid education system with free public schooling for citizens and diverse options for private and international schools, catering to the expatriate community. The University of Malta is renowned for its academic excellence, offering various degree programs. Additionally, Malta is a popular destination for English-language learning, with several reputable language schools.

Lifestyle and Community

Malta offers a balanced and relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle, with a strong focus on family, outdoor activities, and social events. The sunny climate allows for year-round outdoor enjoyment, including hiking, sailing, and beach activities. The local community is welcoming, and the expat population is well-integrated, creating a vibrant and diverse social scene. Cultural festivals, historic sites, and a laid-back lifestyle make Malta a unique place to live.

program-icon-watch.webp
Processing Time

16-18 Months Or 36-48 months

program-icon-loan.webp
Contribution OR Real Estate

Starting from  690,000€

program-icon-airport.webp
Visa-Free Access To

170+ Countries

Taxes

Tax Type Details
Corporate Tax 35% standard rate, with refunds reducing it to ~5%
Personal Income Tax Progressive rates from 0% to 35%
Non-Resident Taxation Only taxed on Malta-sourced income
Wealth Tax No wealth tax
Inheritance Tax No inheritance tax
Property Tax No property tax
Double Taxation Agreements Over 70 treaties to avoid double taxation

Cost of living in Malta

The cost of living in Malta for citizens is generally manageable, with housing being a significant expense, especially in urban areas. Groceries and daily essentials are relatively affordable, particularly with access to local markets. Public transportation is efficient and inexpensive, making commuting cost-effective. Citizens benefit from a robust public healthcare system, which offers essential services at little to no cost, and education is free at primary and secondary levels.

Key Facts

Capital

Valletta

Languages

Maltese, English

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Population

535,064 (2024)

Dual Citizenship

Malta allows dual citizenship, meaning that individuals can hold Maltese citizenship while retaining their original nationality.

Regulations

The regulations for the Maltese naturalization process set clear rules for applicants. To apply, the main applicant must be at least 18 years old and cannot be a citizen of any EU or EFTA country. They must have a clean criminal record and should not have been denied a visa or entry in any country with which Malta has visa-free travel.

Applicants must also pass a “fit and proper” test to show they are reputable and meet health standards, meaning they should be free from contagious diseases. Lastly, they must live in Malta for at least 12 months with a valid residence card.

Quick Facts

Information Details
Launch Year 2014
Investment Requirements 1. Real Estate Investment: €700,000 (purchase) or €16,000/year (lease)
2. Economic Contribution: €600,000 or €750,000
3. Charitable Donation: €10,000
Eligibility Non-EU/EFTA citizens, minimum age 18, clean criminal record, good health, residence in Malta for 12 months
Processing Time 16-18 months (regular) or 36-48 months (longer option)
Total Cost Between €690,000 and €1,460,000 depending on options chosen
Eligible Family Members
  • Spouse
  • Dependent children under 18 years old
  • Children over 18 but under 29 (unmarried and supported)
  • Dependent children with disabilities
  • Parents over 55 years old (fully or primarily supported)
Dual Citizenship Allowed
Passport Validity 10 years for adults, 5 years for minors
Strategic Advantages EU membership, political stability, access to European markets, strong healthcare and education, favorable tax system, Mediterranean lifestyle.
Application Fee Varies based on the number of dependents and processing options

Starting investment for Antigua & Barbuda Citizenship is $ 100,000

Starting investment for Malta Citizenship is 690,000€

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    Malta Citizenship by Investment Options

    To qualify for Maltese citizenship, applicants need to meet three requirements:

    1. Real Estate Investment: Invest at least €700,000 in property, which must be held for a minimum of five years. Alternatively, you can rent a property valued at €16,000 or more per year for five years.
    2. Economic Contribution: Make a financial contribution of either €600,000 or €750,000, depending on your residence duration. Each dependent adds €50,000 to the total.
    3. Charitable Donation: Donate €10,000 to a registered charity or NGO in Malta that focuses on cultural, social, or scientific initiatives.

    What are the eligibility criteria to apply for Malta Citizenship by Investment?

    • The main applicant must be at least 18 years old.
    • Investors must be non-EU/EFTA citizens.
    • Applicants must have a clean criminal record and should not have faced visa denials in countries with visa-free access to Malta.
    • Investors need to pass a reputability assessment.
    • Applicants must be in good health and free from contagious diseases.
    • Applicants must show ties to Malta by living in the country with a residence card for at least 12 months.

    Program Summary

    Learn more about the country and it's citizenship by investment.

      Restricted Nationalities

      Individuals who are citizens of or maintain close connections with the following countries are not eligible for naturalization in Malta under the MEIN Policy:

      • Afghanistan
      • Belarus
      • DR Congo
      • Iran
      • North Korea
      • Russia
      • Somalia
      • South Sudan
      • Sudan
      • Syria
      • Venezuela
      • Yemen

      Malta Citizenship by Investment Required Documents

      1. Draft of application forms (to be provided by Migrate World, then to be signed and done in Malta).
      2. Medical records (to be done in Malta)
      3. Health Insurance Cover Policy
      4. Proof of Residence and Evidence of Residential Address
      5. Supporting employment/company documents (details to be communicated by Migrate World) for main applicant & spouse
      6. Bank Reference Letter and 3 months personal bank statement with sufficient fund for main applicant & spouse
      7. Police Certificate for all applicants 18 years old and above from country of birth and from all countries in which they have resided for at least 6 months over the past 10 years (valid for 6 months only) – apostilled
      8.  University / school certificate or enrollment letter for adult dependent
      9.  8 passport size photos for all family members
      10. Introductory Letter – to be signed and done in Malta
      11. Power of Attorney – to be signed and done in Malta
      12. Signed Resume (CV) for main applicant & spouse
      13. Signed client agreement.

      Certified Copies: 

      1. Passport copies of all pages of passport for all family members
      2. Birth certificates for all family members – apostilled
      3. Marriage certificate – apostilled
      4. Divorce Documents (if applicable)
      5. Residence Permit or Resident Card (if applicable) for all family members, accompanied by a Utility Bill if issued more than 6 months prior to the application
      6. National ID and current Personal ID for all family members
      7. Military records (if applicable)

      NOTE: The government of Malta might request additional documents and/or information not listed above.

      Comparing Citizenship by Investment Countries

      Similar Residence by Investment Programs

      Due Diligence and Background Check

      The due diligence process for Malta’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program ensures that every application is carefully and consistently reviewed. It starts with initial KYC checks by approved agents and includes thorough background checks by the governing authority. This process looks at the applicant’s identity, business connections, political ties, sources of funds, and reputation. This careful evaluation helps ensure that only qualified applicants are approved, maintaining the program’s integrity.

      How to obtain Malta Citizenship by Investment?

      How to Apply: Step-by-step procedure

      1. Initial Consultation: The first step is a complimentary consultation with us, where we explain all the different options available. 
      2. Preliminary checks: Migrate World performs preliminary checks, before officially making any agreement as a guarantee that the applicant’s record is clean in any case that the government might reject his/her application.
      3. Internal checks: Migrate World and approved agents will determine whether they may or may not represent the prospective applicant based on their eligibility criteria.  The estimated duration for this process is typically around 10 to 15 business days.
      4. Agreement & Fees: The fees associated with this service encompass various aspects, including legal fees, due diligence fees, government fees, and application fees.
      5. Real Estate Purchase Consultation:  We assist the applicant in choosing the real estate that follows the required regulations. A Maltese property must be secured (leased or acquired) for one to apply for a residence permit.
      6. Residence Permit Application: The residence permit is issued upon satisfaction of the criteria, which will enable the applicant to satisfy the 12-month residence condition This process takes approximately 10 business days.
      7. Collect Documents & Submit the File: We will help obtain/translate and authenticate all necessary documents. MIIP application forms and medical check-ups are completed. A file is then prepared and submitted within approximately 1-2 months.
      8. Approval & Investment Fulfillment: Upon receipt of the Letter of Approval in Principle, the main applicant must satisfy the investment criteria within the time frames prescribed by the Authority. This process takes approximately 4 months.
      9. Naturalization & Passport: Upon satisfaction of the investment criteria, the Authority will invite the applicant and his/her family to take the oath of allegiance, after which they will each be issued a Certificate of Naturalization and a Maltese Passport.

      NOTE: The timeline is an estimate only, processing time depends on the complexity of each file

      Application Options: Online or Through Migrate World

      You have the option to apply online with other agents, but choosing to apply through Migrate World offers distinct advantages. Our experienced consultants provide support every step of the way and will be with you from A to Z.

      Application Timeline

      The application timeline for the Malta Citizenship by Investment program consists of two processing times: 16 to 18 months and 36 to 48 months. For more information regarding your specific situation, our consultants are here to help you.

      Application Fee

      The application fee for the Malta Citizenship by Investment program varies depending on the chosen options, the number of dependents, and other factors. For more detailed information and personalized assistance, our consultants are here to help you navigate the process.

      Malta Citizenship by Investment Price

      Processing Time:
      16-18 months
      Processing Time:
      16-18 months
      Processing Time:
      36-48 months
      Processing Time:
      36-48 months
      Contribution: 750,000€Contribution: 750,000€Contribution: 600,000€Contribution: 600,000€
      Donation: 10,000€Donation: 10,000€Donation: 10,000€Donation: 10,000€
      Real Estate (Purchase): 700,000€Real Estate (Lease): 80,000€ / 5 years (16,000€ / year)Real Estate (Purchase): 700,000€Real Estate (Lease): 80,000€ / 5 years (16,000€ / year)
      Total: 1,460,000€Total: 840,000€Total: 1,310,000€Total: 690,000€

      Additional government fees and expenses are associated with the Malta Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program:

      Cost CategoryDetailsAmount (€)
      Due Diligence FeeFor primary applicant15,000
       For each dependent10,000
      Processing FeePer applicant1,000
      Residence Permit FeeFor primary applicant5,000
       For each dependent1,000

      Family Members Eligible for Malta Citizenship

      The main applicant can include his: 

      1. Spouse
      2. Children under 18
      3. Children 18 to 29 (Unmarried children between 18 and 29 who are mainly supported)
      4. Dependent children with disabilities (Children over 18 who have a disability)
      5. Parents (Parents over 55 who are mainly supported by the applicant).

      Validity and Renewal for Malta Passport

      The validity period for a regular Maltese passport is as follows:

      • Ten years for adults aged over 16
      • Five years for minors aged between 10 and 15
      • Two years for minors under 10

      Malta Citizenship by Investment Benefits

      • A residency card can be obtained in just 4 weeks.
      • Citizenship approved within 6 months.
      • Application process is streamlined with passport issuance taking approximately 16-18 months.
      • Ability to live, work, and study anywhere in the EU.
      • Visa-free access to 180+ countries, including the UK, EU nations, USA, and Canada.
      • Inclusion of dependent children under 29 at the time of application.
      • Inclusion of parents or grandparents aged 55 or older at the time of application.

      Read more: 

      How can the Migrate World Help You?

      Migrate World offers invaluable support throughout your Malta CBI application process. Our experienced consultants provide expert advice, assist with documentation, and manage your application submission to ensure everything is in order. We act as your liaison with the authorities, keeping you informed every step of the way and addressing any challenges that may arise.

      Frequently Asked Questions

      You can include your spouse, children under 18, unmarried children aged 18 to 29 who are primarily supported, dependent children with disabilities over 18, and parents over 55 who are mainly supported by the applicant.

      Applicants must make a contribution to the National Development and Social Fund, invest in real estate, and make a charitable donation. The total investment varies based on the chosen options.

      While Malta allows dual citizenship, you should check their home country's laws, as some countries have restrictions or do not recognize dual citizenship.

      Yes, Indian citizens can acquire Maltese citizenship through several pathways: registering as the spouse of a Maltese citizen, obtaining naturalization after residing in Malta for five years, or by exceptional naturalization through direct investment for significant contributions to the country.

      A6: No, residency in Malta is not required to maintain citizenship, though you must meet the residency requirements during the application process.

      The Malta Golden Visa Program, officially known as the Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP), allows non-EU nationals to gain permanent residency in Malta through investment.

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