Malta Citizenship by Investment (2025)

What is Malta’s Citizenship by Investment Program?

Malta’s Citizenship by Investment program, officially the Citizenship by Naturalization for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment (MEIN), offers non-EU nationals a pathway to EU citizenship through significant economic contributions. As of March 7, 2025, this remains one of Europe’s premier citizenship options, granting immediate Maltese and EU citizenship after a 12- or 36-month residency period. Benefits include visa-free travel to ~190 countries, the right to live, work, and study across the EU, and access to Malta’s Mediterranean lifestyle and tax advantages.

This guide covers the 2025 requirements, investment options, costs, and application process. Ready to secure a powerful EU passport? Let’s explore!

Who Qualifies for Malta’s Citizenship by Investment?

High-net-worth individuals over 18 with sufficient funds can apply. Key requirements for 2025:

Core Requirements

• Minimum investment of €690,000 (including contribution, property, and donation).
• Clean criminal record (verified via INTERPOL, Europol, and home country checks).
• No sanctions or PEP (Politically Exposed Person) issues flagged in due diligence.
• Valid international health insurance covering Malta.
• Residency in Malta for 12 months (€750,000 option) or 36 months (€600,000 option).

Eligible Dependents

• Spouse or long-term partner (any gender).
• Children under 29 (unmarried, financially dependent).
• Parents/grandparents over 55 (dependent on main applicant).
• Additional €50,000 contribution per dependent.

Investment Options in 2025

Malta requires three mandatory investment components, with totals starting at €690,000:

• Government Contribution: €600,000 (36-month residency) or €750,000 (12-month residency) to the National Development and Social Fund (NDSF).
• Property: Purchase residential property for €700,000+ (held 5 years) or rent for €16,000+/year (5-year lease, no subletting).
• Donation: €10,000 to a government-approved NGO (e.g., cultural, scientific, or philanthropic).

Note: Investments must be completed within 4 months of approval in principle and maintained as required.

Step-by-Step Application Process

The process takes 14-18 months (fast track) or 38-42 months (standard). Steps for 2025:

1. Initial Consultation: Engage a licensed agent for pre-due diligence (passport, CV, address).
2. Residency Stage: Obtain a residence permit (1-3 weeks) and reside in Malta for 12 or 36 months.
3. Eligibility Application: Submit documents (passport, criminal record, health insurance) for four-tier due diligence (€15,000 fee).
4. Approval in Principle: Receive approval within 120-150 days if all checks pass.
5. Investments: Fulfill contribution, property, and donation requirements within 4 months.
6. Oath & Citizenship: Take the Oath of Allegiance in Malta within 6 months of final approval; receive passport.

Pro Tip: Use a licensed agent (€5,000-€15,000) to ensure compliance and streamline the process. Monitoring continues for 5 years post-citizenship.

Costs of Malta’s Citizenship by Investment

Total costs depend on residency track and family size (2025 estimates):

• Government Contribution: €600,000 (36 months) or €750,000 (12 months).
• Property: €700,000 (purchase) or €80,000 (€16,000/year x 5 years, rent).
• Donation: €10,000 (NGO).
• Fees: €15,000 (due diligence), €1,000/applicant (processing), €5,000 (residence permit).
• Dependents: €50,000 each.
• Total (Solo, 12-month): ~€830,000+ (rent option).

Expert Tips for Success

• Hire a Licensed Agent: Mandatory for submission—choose one with Community Malta Agency accreditation (€5,000-€15,000).
• Fast Track: Opt for the 12-month (€750,000) route if funds allow—most popular choice.
• Property Rental: Renting saves upfront capital vs. buying (€80,000 vs. €700,000 over 5 years).
• Prove Ties: Spend time in Malta during residency to show a genuine link.
• Dual Citizenship: Malta allows it—confirm compatibility with your home country.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

References & Resources

• Community Malta Agency - Official program details.
• Henley & Partners - Investment insights.
• Global Citizen Solutions - 2025 updates.