The Malta Citizenship by Investment Program, also known as the Malta Citizenship by Exceptional Services (MCES), is an initiative crafted by the Republic of Malta with the goal of attracting international investors and entrepreneurs. This program grants full Maltese citizenship, and thus EU citizenship, to individuals and their families who contribute significantly to the country's economic development. Not only does the program offer enhanced global mobility with visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 184 countries worldwide, but also opens the door to a host of educational, healthcare, and lifestyle benefits enjoyed by Maltese citizens.
Direct Investment: Minimum contribution to the National Development Fund (NDF) of EUR 600,000 for 3 years; Or EUR 750,000 for 1 year.
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Residential Property: Purchase a residential property in Malta worth at least EUR 700,000 to be held for 5 years from the oath of allegiance date, OR lease a residential property with a rental value of at least EUR 16,000 per annum, also to be held for 5 years from the oath of allegiance date.
Note that the property cannot be sublet during this 5 years period.
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Charity: A minimum of EUR 10,000 to a registered sport, cultural, scientific, philanthropic, animal welfare, or artistic non-governmental organization or society, as approved by the Community Malta Agency.
12-18 months
Family Inclusion: Spouse, dependent unmarried children under the age of 29 and dependent parents and grandparents over the age of 55 of both the main applicant and the spouse.
Malta, a sun-kissed Mediterranean gem, stands as a testament to the confluence of different civilizations over the millennia. This small island, nestled between Sicily and the North African coast, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, from the azure lagoons of Comino to the breathtaking cliffs of Gozo. With an enriching historical tableau that encapsulates everything from prehistoric temples to the medieval grandeur of the Silent City of Mdina, and the architectural marvels of Valletta - its UNESCO-listed capital city, Malta mesmerizes at every turn.
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Malta's Citizenship by Investment Program is well-known for its efficient application process. Although due diligence procedures are stringent to maintain the program's integrity, once an application is approved, the process to acquire citizenship is relatively quick and straightforward. This reduces waiting times and uncertainty for applicants.
Through a rigorous vetting process that ensures only individuals of the highest moral character are admitted, the Malta Citizenship Program presents an exceptional opportunity to benefit from Malta's economic stability, political safety, and advantageous location within the European Union.
Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 184 countries, including the EU, UK, and the US
Freedom to live, work, and study in any EU country, along with access to healthcare, and voting rights
Stable, high-income economy offering numerous business and investment opportunities
Lower investment rate than other EU countries
High quality of life with diverse cultural activities
Well-established and efficient application process
Investment in National Development Fund Individual investors are required to contribute a minimum of EUR 600,000 to the National Development Fund established by the government, coupled with evidence of 36 months of residency. There is an option for a faster route, involving a contribution of EUR 750,000 and proof of 12 months of residency. An additional contribution of EUR 50,000 is required for each dependent included in the application.
Investment in Residential Real Estate You would need to additionally invest EUR 700,000 in residential real estate or enter into a rental contract worth at least EUR 16,000 per year, which is to be sustained for a minimum period of five years.
Donation to an NGO A mandatory donation of EUR 10,000 to a certified non-governmental organization (NGO) or society in the sectors of philanthropy, culture, sports, science, animal welfare, or art is also required.
Do you have any queries? Find answers to the most commonly asked questions regarding the citizenship or residency program offered by this country.
No, simply buying real estate in Malta does not grant citizenship. To gain citizenship through investment, one must buy or rent residential real estate, make a financial contribution to the Maltese government, and make a donation to a non-governmental organization.
With a low unemployment rate and good job prospects for highly skilled workers in numerous industries, Malta, the most densely populated country in the EU, offers attractive opportunities. Living in Malta is also relatively affordable.
It’s a legal pathway to acquire Maltese citizenship by making a significant financial investment in the country. This can include contributions to the government, real estate investment, and donations to an NGO.
Applicants are required to maintain residence in Malta for five years from the date their official certificate of citizenship is issued to qualify for citizenship.
