Acquiring Maltese Citizenship by Descent

Eligibility Criteria

✅ Individuals born outside Malta between 21 September 1964 and 31 July 1989 to a Maltese father are eligible for citizenship by descent.
✅ Since 1 August 1989, individuals born abroad to at least one Maltese parent (father or mother) acquire Maltese citizenship automatically.
✅ As of 1 August 2007, direct descendants of Maltese-born ancestors can apply for citizenship by registration, provided they can document their lineage.

✅ Applicant’s birth certificate.
✅ Birth, marriage, and death certificates of Maltese ancestors.
✅ Proof of descent, such as family trees or genealogical records.
✅ Any additional documents demonstrating the applicant's connection to the Maltese ancestor.

📍 Collect and authenticate all required documents.
📍 Submit the application through a Maltese embassy, high commission, consulate, or directly to the Department for Citizenship and Expatriate Affairs in Malta.
📍 Await processing and approval from Maltese authorities.
📍 Upon approval, take the oath of allegiance to Malta.

Is there a residency requirement?

No, there is no residency requirement for applicants proving Maltese ancestry.

Can I apply if my Maltese ancestor was born before 1964?

Yes, as long as you can provide documented proof of direct descent from a Maltese-born ancestor.

Do I need to speak Maltese?

No, language proficiency is not required for citizenship by descent.

Visa Falcon is here to help you confidently navigate the world of travel visas. Check the latest visa requirements for 197+ countries.