13 July Citizenship

How to Apply for Malta Dual Citizenship by Investment, Naturalisation, and More

Ahmed hamdy Ahmed hamdy
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Malta is a member of the EU, and dual citizenship has been legal for years. The Maltese government offers several citizenship options, including by birth, descent, or the popular Malta Citizenship by Investment program (granting of citizenship for exceptional services). Applicants can receive Maltese citizenship by residing in Malta for a minimum of 12 or 36 months and making a government contribution, plus the purchase or rental of Maltese real estate.

Families can receive Malta dual citizenship status without giving up their current nationality. U.S. citizens, for example, can hold citizenship with the United States and Malta. Whether you’re applying through ancestry, marriage, or investment, Maltese citizens enjoy global mobility, a strong second passport, and access to EU rights.

What Is Dual Citizenship in Malta?

Dual citizenship means holding two nationalities at the same time, and Malta allows it. Since 2000, the Government of Malta has recognized dual and multiple citizenship, so you can receive Maltese citizenship without giving up your existing nationality, including in cases of dual citizenship with the United States. U.S. law also allows dual citizenship, meaning Americans can apply for the Malta Citizenship program and keep their second nationality and passport.

Malta citizenship can be obtained by a person born in Malta, through the Malta of a parent, or by applying for exceptional services. You can apply for the Malta passport after 1 or 3 years of residence, depending on your investment route. The citizenship offers include visa-free travel, the right to own real estate in Malta, and purchase or rental of residential property in Malta.

How to Obtain Dual Citizenship in Malta

There are several routes to obtain dual citizenship in Malta, depending on individual circumstances:

By Birth – For individuals born in Malta under specific historical rules.
By Descent – Available to those with Maltese ancestry, even if born outside Malta.
By Marriage or Registration – Applicable to spouses and other eligible relatives.
By Naturalisation – For long-term residents who meet strict criteria.
By Exceptional Services (Investment) – A regulated route for high-net-worth individuals contributing to Malta’s economy.

Each pathway is governed by specific rules and application procedures administered by the Community Malta Agency.

Malta became an independent state on 21 September 1964, and its citizenship law has since evolved through the Maltese Citizenship Act to meet modern demands of global mobility and economic development.

1- Acquiring Maltese Citizenship By Birth

The right to Maltese citizenship by birth depends on when and to whom you were born. Before 21 September 1964, individuals born in Malta were considered citizens of the UK and Colonies—not Malta—unless they later registered or naturalised. Between 21 September 1964 and 31 July 1989, Maltese citizenship was granted if you were born in Malta to a father also born in Malta. From 1 August 1989 onward, the law became more inclusive, allowing either parent to pass on citizenship, as long as one was Maltese at the time of birth.

To apply, applicants must prove birth details and parental nationality and submit the appropriate forms via the Community Malta Agency.

Key Points:

Before 21 Sep 1964: No automatic Maltese citizenship, even if born in Malta
21 Sep 1964 – 31 July 1989: Citizenship passed through the father if born in Malta
From 1 August 1989: Either parent can confer citizenship if one was Maltese at the time
Post-2000: Dual citizenship is legal—no need to renounce another nationality
Full rights include a Maltese passport, voting (if residing locally), and passing on citizenship to children

2- Maltese Citizenship by Descent: Who Qualifies and What to Know

Maltese citizenship by descent is available to individuals born outside Malta who can prove an unbroken lineage from a Maltese-born parent or grandparent. The law, amended in 2007, allows applicants to claim citizenship if their ancestor was born in Malta and is (or was) a registered Maltese citizen. This route is popular among those with Maltese heritage seeking to reconnect through citizenship.

Eligibility Requirements:

Direct descent from a parent or grandparent born in Malta
Unbroken lineage, with living ancestors registered as Maltese citizens
Documentary proof of birth and ancestry required

Special Cases:

Stateless individuals born in Malta and residing there for 5+ years may qualify
Foreign-born persons facing nationality restrictions may be granted citizenship through descent, with Ministerial approval

Ineligibility Conditions:

If a parent was alive on 1 Aug 2007 but died after 1 Aug 2010 without applying for Maltese citizenship, the lineage may be considered broken
If the parent died before 1 Aug 2007 or between 2007–2010, citizenship may still be granted

Eligibility by Case:

Case	Eligibility Status
The parent died before 1 August 2007	Citizenship may still be granted
Parent died 1 Aug 2007 – 1 Aug 2010	Citizenship link likely preserved
Parent died after 1 August 2010 (no application)	Citizenship link may be broken; likely ineligible

Important: Ensure all lineage and identity documents are in order before applying. Timely registration by ancestors can determine current eligibility for Maltese citizenship by descent.

3- Malta Citizenship For Exceptional Services by Direct Investment

Malta offers a citizenship program for high-net-worth individuals who make significant contributions to the country. Known as Malta citizenship by investment, this regulated path requires residency, investment, and strict background checks. It is managed by the Community Malta Agency and capped at 400 approvals per year.

Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must be at least 18 years old, legally reside in Malta for 12 or 36 months, and pass four levels of due diligence. They must also prove a clean criminal record, show the lawful source of their wealth, and make all required contributions. Immediate family members can be included.

Required Documentation and Forms
Applicants must submit a residency application, eligibility and citizenship forms, proof of residence, financial records, and supporting ID documents. All documents must be submitted through a Licensed Agent and translated if not in English or Maltese.

Application Process
The process begins with obtaining legal residency in Malta. After receiving an e-residence card, the applicant submits the eligibility form and undergoes due diligence. Once approved in principle, the investment phase begins. After completing all requirements, the final citizenship application is submitted and the oath of allegiance is taken.

Cost and Timeline Overview
The minimum government contribution is €600,000 for the 36-month route or €750,000 for the 12-month route. Additional costs include a €10,000 donation to a Maltese NGO, property investment or rental, due diligence fees, and €50,000 per dependent. The entire process can take over a year.

Investment Options

Applicants must contribute to the government, donate to a registered NGO, and either buy Malta real estate worth at least €700,000 or rent at €16,000 annually for five years. These investments are only required after receiving approval in principle.

Review the Malta Citizenship by Investment Program to see all requirements, benefits, and next steps in one place.

4- Malta Citizenship by Naturalisation

Citizenship by naturalisation allows long-term residents of Malta to apply for full citizenship after establishing strong personal, social, and economic ties to the country. Unlike the investment route, this is a slower, merit-based process for those who have made Malta their permanent home.

Who Can Apply for Maltese Citizenship by Naturalisation?
Applicants must be at least 18 years old, have legally resided in Malta for at least five continuous years, possess good character, be financially stable, speak Maltese or English, and show genuine integration into Maltese society.

Residency and Documentation Requirements
Applicants must prove five years of legal residency (including a continuous 12-month period before applying), along with evidence of employment or business in Malta, clean police records, language proficiency, and social integration through local ties and references.

Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for Citizenship by Naturalisation
First, meet the residency requirement. Then, collect all necessary documents, including police clearance and community references. Submit the complete application to the Community Malta Agency. Applicants will undergo background checks and may attend interviews. If approved by the Minister, they must take the Oath of Allegiance to gain citizenship.

Application Forms and Applicable Fees
Form A is used for naturalisation applications, with fees ranging from €450–€500. Additional costs apply for police certificates, language tests, and translation or notarisation of non-English documents. Processing time can vary but generally takes several months to over a year.

5- Maltese Citizenship by Registration

Citizenship by registration is offered to individuals who have a close connection to Malta through family ties or past citizenship. It is a straightforward process compared to naturalisation and does not always require long-term residency.

Who Can Apply?
This route is open to spouses and widows or widowers of Maltese citizens, former Maltese citizens, and descendants of Maltese citizens born abroad. Each category has specific documentation and eligibility requirements.

Required Documents by Applicant Type
Spouses need a marriage certificate, proof of five years of cohabitation, IDs, and evidence of a genuine relationship. Widows or widowers must provide marriage and death certificates and proof of the deceased spouse’s Maltese citizenship. Former citizens must show prior nationality and the reason it was lost. Descendants must submit birth records and proof their ancestor held or applied for Maltese citizenship.

How to Apply
Applicants must submit the Dual Enquiry Form A Malta, provide officially translated documents if needed, pay the required fees, and complete an oath of allegiance if approved.

Application Forms & Fees
Form K is used by spouses and widows/widowers, while former citizens use Form B or D, and descendants use Form N. The standard fee is €150, though notary, translation, and legal costs may apply. Working with a licensed agent is advised for complex cases.

6- Maltese Citizenship by Marriage: How Spouses Apply For Citizenship

Spouses of Maltese citizens can apply for Maltese citizenship by registration if they meet specific eligibility conditions under the Maltese Citizenship Act. This route is often used by those married to citizens by birth, descent, or registration and offers a simplified path to dual citizenship.

Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for Maltese citizenship by marriage, the couple must have been legally married for at least five years and lived together continuously. The Maltese spouse must still hold citizenship at the time of application. This option is open to both Malta-based and overseas couples. Widows or widowers may also apply if they haven’t remarried and were married for at least five years before their spouse’s death.

Required Documents
Applicants must provide a valid marriage certificate recognized in Malta, identification documents for both spouses, and evidence of cohabitation such as joint leases or financial accounts. Additional documents include a declaration confirming the ongoing relationship, the Maltese spouse’s birth certificate, a police conduct certificate, and Form K with certified translations if needed.

Application Process
The process begins with submitting Form K and supporting documents, followed by payment of the required fees. Applicants must schedule an appointment with the Community Malta Agency or the nearest consulate. An interview may be requested to verify the relationship. If approved, the applicant must take an oath of allegiance to finalize the citizenship.

Fees & Timeline
Document preparation typically takes 2–4 weeks, depending on the country. Application review by authorities may take between 6 to 12 months. Once approved, the final step—taking the oath—takes around 1 to 2 weeks, with most fees included in the €150 application cost, excluding legal and translation expenses.

Benefits of Maltese Citizenship for Expats and Investors

Holding dual citizenship in Malta offers a unique blend of personal freedom, economic opportunity, and EU-wide access. Whether you’re an expatriate, entrepreneur, or global investor, becoming a citizen of Malta grants access to numerous advantages:

The right to live in Malta year-round
Full residence in Malta without time restrictions
Access to world-class healthcare and education
Eligibility to apply for a passport is ranked among the most powerful globally
Rights equal to any other Maltese citizen, including those born in Malta

Why Many Choose a Second Passport from Malta

Many choose a second passport from Malta for the legal, financial, and long-term security it provides. As a member of the European Union, Malta offers citizenship that goes beyond travel freedom, granting access to stable EU systems, opportunities, and rights that benefit individuals, families, and business owners alike. With dual citizenship legal since 2000, Malta has built a reputation as a trusted provider of structured citizenship and residency programs.

Key benefits of Maltese dual citizenship include:

EU citizenship with the right to live, work, study, or retire in any EU or Schengen country
Access to EU financial and legal systems for wealth planning and asset protection
Political and economic stability in a reputable jurisdiction
Opportunities for future generations, including education and mobility
Expanded global protection in times of crisis or restrictions for a single nationality
Eligibility to vote in EU elections (if residing in Malta)
Freedom to invest and do business across the EU with fewer restrictions

Who Can Apply for Dual Citizenship in Malta

Anyone seeking to apply for Maltese citizenship must meet the eligibility criteria defined under the Maltese Citizenship Act. The process depends on the chosen path—whether by birth, descent, registration, marriage, naturalisation, or exceptional service by direct investment.

Eligibility is based on:

Place and date of birth
Maltese ancestry (parent, grandparent, or ascendant born in Malta)
Marital status with a Maltese citizen
Duration and legality of residence in Malta
Contribution to Malta’s national development (via investment)

The Community Malta Agency is responsible for processing applications for all categories of citizenship in Malta.

Foreign nationals who meet the qualifications under any recognized legal route can apply for Malta dual citizenship. Malta allows both EU and non-EU nationals to become citizens, provided they comply with the citizenship act and submit their citizenship application through an authorized agent (for certain routes like investment).

There is no restriction on holding both Maltese citizenship and another nationality, provided the applicant’s country also permits dual or multiple citizenship.

The ESDI Handbook serves as the official guide for Malta’s citizenship by investment program. It outlines all legal, procedural, and compliance requirements, ensuring licensed agents and applicants follow a transparent, structured process aligned with Maltese and EU laws.

Risk Matrix for Citizenship Applications

The Community Malta Agency applies a risk matrix to assess applicants’ financial, legal, and reputational standing.

Checks Include:

Identity & Documents: Authenticity and alternate identities
Business Ties: Ownership, offshore connections, shell companies
PEP Status: Scrutiny of political exposure and media reports
Wealth Source: Must be verifiable and lawful
Legal Reputation: No involvement in serious litigation or crime
Impact on Malta: Consideration of EU security and reputation risks

Applications that fail any part of this matrix are rejected.

Due Diligence Process

Malta’s citizenship by investment program applies a strict 4-tier due diligence system to ensure only reputable applicants are approved.

Tier Breakdown:

Tier 1: Basic ID checks and internal flags
Tier 2: Global database screening (Interpol, Europol, sanctions)
Tier 3: Third-party background checks and media analysis
Tier 4: Final risk assessment and ministerial review

Applicants and dependents over 12 must pass all four tiers without red flags like criminal history or unclear finances.

Why Malta’s Due Diligence Is Trusted

Malta is known for its transparent and ethical citizenship process, which is backed by strong compliance and security protocols.

Key Points:

Full asset disclosure is required
Face-to-face interviews may be conducted
Only licensed agents can submit applications
All cases reviewed by government security bodies

This reputation ensures Malta maintains high EU and international standards.

Only licensed agents with a valid AKM license can submit citizenship applications in Malta. They must follow strict ethical guidelines and ensure all documents are verified. Using unlicensed intermediaries can lead to application rejection or legal complications.

Malta Dual Citizenship with The US Passport for Americans

U.S. citizens can legally hold Maltese citizenship without renouncing their American nationality. Since dual citizenship with the United States is allowed, Americans can enjoy the benefits of both passports—making Malta one of the easiest countries to move to from the USA for those seeking a stable, EU-based second citizenship.

Key Benefits:

Retain both U.S. and Maltese passports
Full access to EU travel, residency, and work rights
Buy or rent property in Malta
Secure a second nationality for family planning
Benefit from tax optimization under Maltese rules

U.S. citizens must still comply with U.S. tax laws (FATCA, FBAR, IRS filings).

Conclusion: Should You Apply for Malta Dual Citizenship?

The benefits of Malta citizenship extend far beyond travel. Malta citizens enjoy full EU rights, including the freedom to live, work, and study in any EU country. Citizenship also offers long-term security for families, allowing them to receive Malta citizenship without having to give up their original nationality—even when receiving citizenship of another country. The application for Malta citizenship is processed through the Community Malta Agency, and the cost of applying for Malta varies by route, whether through descent, marriage, residency, or investment.

Maltese citizenship and the citizenship of another state can be held together legally, provided your home country permits it. Dual citizenship with the United States is allowed, and Malta citizenship can be obtained through birth in Malta, descent from a Maltese parent, or naturalisation after residing in Malta for a period. It also requires investment in real estate in Malta—either through purchase or rental of residential property in Malta—as part of the popular Malta Citizenship by Investment route.

For individuals from the U.S., UK, India, and other countries, Malta offers a unique opportunity to gain a second nationality and passport in a stable EU member state. Citizenship allows you to apply for a Maltese passport after one or three years, depending on your eligibility path. With a strong legal framework, structured due diligence, and benefits like visa-free access to 190+ countries, Malta citizenship is at least a lifelong asset—and a smart choice for globally minded individuals and families.

👉 Curious about where else you can hold dual citizenship? See the full list of countries that allow dual citizenship here.

Apply for Malta Citizenship – Frequently Asked Questions

Does Malta Allow Dual Citizenship?

Yes, Malta has allowed dual citizenship since 2000. You can keep your original passport if your home country also permits it.

Can I Apply for Maltese Citizenship by Investment?

Yes, eligible individuals can apply through the Exceptional Services program with contributions, property investment, and residency.

How Long Does It Take to Acquire Maltese Citizenship?

By Birth/Descent: 3–6 months
By Registration: 6–12 months
By Naturalisation: 12–24+ months
By Investment: 12 or 36 months

Can I Have a UK and a Maltese passport?

Yes, both countries allow dual citizenship. You can legally hold both passports.

Can I Live in Malta with Dual Citizenship?

Yes, Maltese citizens can live in Malta full-time without visas or residence permits.

Is Malta’s Passport Powerful?

Yes, it offers visa-free access to 190+ countries and full EU rights to live and work in 27 member states.

What Is the Minimum Investment for Malta Dual Citizenship?

€600,000–€750,000 contribution, €10,000 donation, and property purchase or rental. Total cost starts at €632,000.

Can Family Members Be Included in an Application?

Yes, you can include a spouse, dependent children under 29, and dependent parents/grandparents over 55.

Can Foreigners Buy Property in Malta?

Yes, but some zones require an AIP permit. Property used for citizenship must be held for 5 years.