Malta

Dual Citizenship Malta

Allowed

Citizenship law in Malta is regulated under the Maltese Citizenship Act, Cap 188 of the Laws of Malta. Citizenship in Malta is based on the principle of ius sanguinis and can be acquired through various forms including naturalisation, marriage, merit, adoption and also through an investment route. Citizenship can be acquired through naturalisation if one proves that he/she resided in Malta for five years preceding the date of application. Citizenship can also be acquired by marriage to a Maltese citizen, after at least five years of marriage. In both cases of naturalisation or marriage, the acquisition of citizenship is still discretionary and depends upon the approval of the Minister responsible for citizenship.

Maltese Citizenship may also be granted by investment under an amendment passed in November 2013 to the Maltese Citizenship Act, Chapter 188 of the Laws of Malta. The main applicant may also add in the application, his/her spouse, children and parents or grandparents, under certain conditions, to benefit under the Malta Citizenship by Investment Programme. In order to be eligible, the main applicant is required to contribute at least €650,000 to Malta’s National Development and Social Fund, invest €150,000 in Maltese stocks, and purchase or rent property in Malta.

As from February 2000, a Maltese citizen can acquire and retain a foreign citizenship together with their Maltese citizenship. Under Article 22(2) of the Maltese Constitution, dual or multiple citizenship is permitted and one is not obliged to renounce his/her previous citizenship.

In 2014, Malta launched the Individual Investor Programme (IIP), which allows individuals to become citizens of Malta by making a substantial investment. The benefits, requirements and costs of the Malta Citizenship by Investment programme can be viewed by clicking below. 

Malta Citizenship by Investment